The Pomerantz Career Center values campus partners who invest in their growth to better support students, and we are proud to highlight Career Connectors who demonstrate leadership and dedication to student career success.
Meet David Rooney
Access Consultant, Student Disability Services
How long have you been working at the University of Iowa? When did you begin taking an active interest in helping students reach their post-graduation goals?
"This is my sixth year, working with SDS. The challenges for persons with disabilities in the workforce are well known and that awareness comes with the job. In some ways, students can intentionally hone their self-advocacy skills on campus and take those experiences with them. Career Connectors is a good fit for SDS."
How has Career Connectors supported you in assisting students on their professional journeys?
"The CC trainings provide good time to focus on that specific goal, for working with a person pursuing a degree. That time reminds us about the job-search aspect, from a student’s perspective. Even though everyone takes a different path, some tried-and-true skills continue to show up as helpful to share."
What has been the most valuable takeaway or lesson you’ve gained from Career Connectors sessions?
"Only offer stories from your own experience if a student asks; or if you find one uniquely appropriate, ask for permission to share it with them."
If you could share one piece of advice with other faculty or staff about supporting student career development, what would it be?
"Depending on your role as an educator on campus, really consider the responsibility for shaping a future employee—and even if that is the main goal with the pedagogy."
How has your own perspective on career development evolved since participating in Career Connectors?
"You know the old cliché about learning more from your students… well, it’s untrue. Just kidding! My perspective maintains how essential it is to keep a relative sense of humor when developing anything, especially for yourself."