FOR:
UI Faculty, Staff, Graduate TAs
OFFERED:
In-Person & Virtually
REGISTRATION:
POINT OF CONTACT:
Mallory Becraft
mallory-becraft@uiowa.edu
Upcoming Sessions
Our Mission
Our mission is to equip faculty and staff with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to effectively support students in their career development and foster a culture of professionalism and preparedness. We want to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers. By cultivating a network of engaged campus partners, we aim to create an environment that promotes students' personal growth, professional development, and overall success.
Our Approach
Career Connectors takes a hands-on and practical approach to training. It is comprised of a comprehensive three-part training program designed to prepare our faculty and staff to better assist students in their career exploration, experiential education, and preparedness for the job search or graduate school process. We provide real-world examples, case studies, ideas for the classroom, and interactive exercises to ensure that faculty and staff gain actionable knowledge they can immediately apply in their roles as career connectors.
All sessions are approximately 2 hours long. Both in-person and virtual sessions are available. Training sessions will be offered year-round. To see specific times and dates, please register on UI Employee Self-Service, by clicking "Enroll in a Course" and searching for "Connectors".
Here's an overview of the three training sessions:
Session 1: Connecting to Exploration
This session focuses on helping students discover their passions, interests, and strengths while exploring various career options. Participants will learn effective strategies to guide students through self-assessment, career research, and goal setting. By empowering our students to make informed career decisions, we can set them on a path toward fulfilling and meaningful professional lives.
Session 2: Connecting to Experience
This session aims to enhance students' learning experiences through internships, co-ops, service-learning, and other hands-on opportunities. Participants will gain insights into the importance of experiential education and learn best practices for facilitating meaningful experiences for our students. By connecting academic learning with practical applications, we can better prepare our students for the demands of their chosen fields.
Session 3: Connecting to the Future
This session equips participants with the tools and knowledge to guide students through the process of applying for jobs and graduate school. From crafting compelling resumes and cover letters to honing interview skills, participants will learn effective strategies to help students present themselves confidently and competitively in the application process. Faculty and staff will also learn more about the skills that are in greatest demand from today’s employers.
What We Offer
Career Connectors offers comprehensive training programs and resources tailored specifically for University of Iowa faculty and staff. Through engaging workshops, webinars, and interactive materials, we provide valuable insights and strategies to enhance career guidance and professionalism within educational settings.
Comprehensive Training Programs
We provide a range of training programs designed specifically for faculty and staff, covering a wide array of career-related topics. Our interactive workshops are facilitated by career coaches who are passionate about effectively guiding students on their career paths. From resume writing and interview skills to professional etiquette and networking strategies, our training programs offer practical insights and best practices.
Community and Collaboration
Join a vibrant community of faculty and staff who share a common goal of fostering students' professional growth. Through our sessions and additional elective events, you can connect with like-minded professionals, share experiences and exchange ideas. Career Connectors encourages networking and collaboration to create a supportive ecosystem that elevates the quality of career guidance provided to students.
Professional Development Opportunities
We believe in the continuous growth and development of faculty and staff. That's why Career Connectors offers ongoing professional development opportunities. Stay up to date with the latest industry insights, gain new perspectives, and enhance your skills as you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of career development.
Benefits
In addition to continuing to help University of Iowa students make more intentional career decisions and become more confident in their career plans, there are additional benefits you will find in being a part of the Career Connector network, which include:
- Name/picture will be listed on PCC website with a Career Connector Directory
- Exclusive access to Lunch & Learn style optional trainings in the future for on-going professional development
- Opportunity to meet and connect with like-minded campus colleagues
- Invitation to the Pomerantz Center’s annual Career Impact Award recognition event
- A letter of gratitude from the Asst. Provost/Executive Director to your supervisor
- A certification of completion
Join Career Connectors
By becoming a part of Career Connectors, you will join a network of dedicated professionals committed to shaping the future success of college students. Together, we can empower the next generation to thrive in their chosen careers.
FAQ
Do the sessions need to be completed in order?
Yes, the content of the sessions is designed for the sessions to be completed in sequential order.
Is there a time limit on when I have to complete the Career Connectors training sessions?
There is no specific deadline for finishing the three sessions. Choose your own adventure! Sessions 1-3 will be offered year-round. Additional elective professional development opportunities will also be shared with the Career Connectors listserv for ongoing involvement.
Can community members participate in the Career Connectors training sessions?
At this time, this initiative is focused on training campus partners, so involvement is limited to faculty, staff, and graduate student TAs.
Who do I contact if I have more questions about Career Connectors or if I need ADA accommodations to participate?
Please contact Mallory Becraft, Associate Director of Career Coaching and Campus Partnerships.