What Can You Do With A Biology Major?

Most students immediately associate biology degrees with medical school. But what if you don’t want to be a doctor? There are still many career options available to you.

For example, if you love both the arts and sciences, you could combine your passions into working with medical illustrations. Or maybe you love animals – you could double major with zoology and become a zookeeper. You could also become a marine biologist or a trainer. There are lots of unique career paths.

Do some research! All it takes is a simple Google search to learn what jobs people with your degree hold. Or, you can come in to our office to talk with a Career Counselor. They’ll be able to tell you more and even help get you connected with companies in your field. You can try a Job Shadow or Day in the Field program, where you have the opportunity to follow someone in the field you’re looking at to see what their daily work experience is really like. Check out our services at lssaa.wisc.edu/careers.

Aquatic Biologists, Inc. is one of many companies that hire biology majors. The work involves treatment with aquatic herbicides and algaecides to control nuisance weeds and algae in ponds, chemical applications on lakes for invasive species, installing aeration systems and fountains to improve water quality, installing aquatic plants for habitat, aesthetics, and nutrient adsorption, and performing fish quantity surveys.

Northeast Wisconsin Territory Manager Paul Leisten explains, “We are usually working out in the field for 4 to 6 days a week and the environment is always new and changing.” It’s a great alternative to a desk job, or to working in a laboratory.

But if laboratories are more in your field of interest, there are opportunities for biology majors.

Many graduates work in a research laboratory at a university or another institution, often while seeking a higher degree. A masters or doctoral degree can enable students to continue research work in a field of choice, or become a professor. The laboratory work while in school is a resume booster and helps students gain experience. Check with your TAs and professors to see if they know of any research work you could get involved in.

Idella Yamben, a scientific recruiter at Kelly Scientific Resources, advises, “Network! You are a whole person with unique capabilities and interests. All types of people are welcome in science and you would be surprised the opportunities that exist for the right skill set. You don't have to just be at the bench or be a teacher! However, making those transitions can be difficult if you are not knowledgeable about companies and skills. Your best way to help you stand out is by networking.”

Yamben also recommends exploring a wide variety of disciplines. “The most competitive applicants have a cross section of skills including biology, chemistry, business, training/teaching, and social/soft skills. If you can diversify your experiences in school (including research and internships) you will likely have more opportunities come your way once you graduate.”

There are many different options open for students with a biology major. You’re not stuck with going to medical school. You can get a job after graduation, without any higher education. Check out your options and find a career path that you love!

Being a Badger Has its Perks

Being affiliated with a university like UW-Madison has its advantages. One big advantage is using your Badger status to make connections with experienced alumni to gain valuable information about career paths and opportunities. Some of these contacts happen naturally as you attend events as a student. But you can be even more proactive in your approach to take control of your own career.

Here are just some of the ways to connect with alumni –

1. Search the Alumni Directory through the Badger Career Network

Our alumni have an alumni profile in our directory. They decide what information to make public, which may include email address, phone number, business address, job title and company. Students have access to this service, and can search the 30,000+ alumni who tagged themselves as a Badger Career Network participant. Visit http://www.uwalumni.com/studentcareer.aspx to register as a current student and start searching!

2. Join our Wisconsin Alumni Association LinkedIn Group

As a student, we welcome you to join LinkedIn and our group! LinkedIn is a great resource for those who are looking to connect with professionals in their industry or career of interest. Our group is open only to UW-Madison students and grads so you can more easily find people you’d like to contact. Here's the link to join the group: http://www.linkedin.com/e/gis/40224/0F2FEB0AA671

3. Stay connected with your career office

Your career office on campus organizes dozens of events each year, including informational sessions, career fairs and networking events — all of which feature or include alumni from UW-Madison. Attend as many of these great events as possible to start building your network.

Start using your Badger status today — check out www.uwalumni.com.

Gina Evans is the Career Development Specialist for the Wisconsin Alumni Association

In the Middle of a Job Search? Networking Pays Off!

Is hunting for a job really all about who you know? No, not all the time, but it sure does help.

In my role as a sourcing & diversity specialist, I often find myself stressing to job seekers how important it is to make appropriate connections that will assist in their job search. If you’re searching, I’d typically advise that, if you’re not already a member, it’s a good idea to join networks like LinkedIn or Facebook. Look for pages or groups devoted to the companies you’re interested in working with. On American Family’s LinkedIn and Facebook pages, I spend much of my time sharing information about our company, culture, position types, tasks/qualifications and other nice-to-know stuff, such as benefits and flexible work schedules.

So, you’ve done your research via social media. Will that help you get a job? Obviously, your skills and qualifications for the role need to be a good match, as well as your cultural fit with the organization and company values. Beyond that, who lands the ever-so-desired offer? Now, more than ever, landing an interview and then an offer is a competitive business. It’s a time when a job posting can produce upwards of 100 to 200 applicants within a few days or a week (not all qualified, of course). The way to rise to the top is NETWORKING. Know your skills and know how to network. I’ve witnessed this more times than I can count -- it really does produce job offers.

So, how does networking really work? The key to networking is finding the right people to connect with and then sharing some brief information about who you are, what you can do and what your interests are, in hopes that you can create a memorable impression. Finding commonalities with people will help them remember you and even cause them to recommend you to someone else – and that someone else may be just the person you need to know. I see this happen every day as I’m making connections for job seekers with our recruiters (staffing specialists), who in turn work with our managers, who hire for positions within the company. I’ve seen several job offers extended and accepted as a result of connections made through our LinkedIn Careers group and inquiries over the American Family Careers Facebook page, for example.

I know there are so many variables that come into play regarding career opportunities, from the type of position you want, whether or not you’d like to relocate, and most importantly, how the timing works out. Networking can help you spread the word about the type of work you want, where and when. And you never really know when it might pay off for you.

Here are a few of my favorite networking tips. When having a conversation with someone:
• Be brief. Avoid too much small talk and make your points.
• Set an agenda for your conversation, if only for yourself. You’ll stay on point.
• Keep yourself in front of your connections. Don’t forget to thank people for meeting with you.
• Search online groups or discussions to find industry professionals you might meet.
• Pay it forward – help others and they will help you.

Lisa Beauclaire is a sourcing and diversity specialist with American Family Insurance who also uses social media extensively to connect with potential job candidates. American Family is a Fortune 500 company specializing in property, casualty and life insurance with operations in 19 states. Connect with AmFam via Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and The Family Room Career Blog.

Announcing the L&S Career Services Winter Break Job Shadow Program for January 2012!

No plans for winter break?

Looking to explore your career interests and goals?

Wanting to learn more about, and observe, various types of job functions at an employer?

Wanting to build a network with professionals and learn about their career backgrounds and interests?

Interested in possible internship and job opportunities at an employer?

If you have these questions and more, then consider doing a job shadow experience!

You are invited to participate in the Letters and Science Career Services Winter Break 2012 Job Shadow program. Job shadowing will help you with your career exploration, goals and options. This fantastic and unique opportunity will engage and connect you with seasoned professionals and often UW-Madison alumni in many different career paths and from a variety of educational backgrounds.

You may be visiting various offices, conducting informational interviews with staff to learn about their career background, attending meetings and events, observing certain job functions of staff members, participating in an office activity or program, and also learning about potential internship and full-time opportunities. Typically, the job shadow day is a one-day experience, although there may be opportunities to participate for more than one day, based on the availability of the employer.

In summary, there are many key benefits that make the Job Shadow program one of our most successful programs that has attracted a few hundred students over the past two years. Some of the benefits for students and employers include:

Benefits of the Job Shadow Program for Employers

• Fosters and enhances an employer’s connection among the well-rounded and talented students in the College of Letters &Science.

• Provides an opportunity for staff members at an employer to be a resource about their career paths and share insights and a snapshot of what their typical job is like.

• Enables early identification of potential candidates for internships and full-time positions.

Benefits of the Job Shadow Program for Students

• Students get a better sense of a typical day at the organization, as well as certain job functions and tasks.

• Students have a chance to develop a professional network of individuals.

• Students acquire an understanding of the organizational culture and professional etiquette at an employer.

• Students learn about the various types of internship and career opportunities available.

The Job Shadow program will occur between January 5 and 20, 2012, during time frames that mutually work for the host employer and the student. Participating employers are from around the U.S. and Wisconsin, and represent a variety of career interests and sectors. Organizations include: American Field Service (AFS), Brunswick Group LLC, Coyote Logistics, Direct Supply, Gateway Middle School, Google, GRAEF, Her Exchange, Kohl’s, LaSalle Investment Management, Madison No Fear Dentistry, Milwaukee Public Library, Starcom Mediavest Group, Summit Commercial Finance Group, and Teach for America.

Student testimonials from past Job Shadow programs include:

“I shadowed at Starcom and it was a wonderful experience. I learned so much about a career I didn't even know existed. The person I shadowed was so down to earth (a recent Wisconsin grad). She introduced me to friends who had different positions and responsibilities, so I had a conceptual as well as physical tour of the company. I don't know how the shadow could have gone smoother or been more beneficial. I loved how they kept two shadowers together, so it was a little less intimidating and easier to keep conversation flowing. From this experience, I keep think­ing how beneficial more job shadows would have been. I guess it's never too late. Thank you again for providing this exceptional learning experience.”

“The program was really helpful because I am graduating in just a few short months and it gave me a glimpse into possible future careers.”

“I enjoyed this program because it gave me a chance to get a good look at the duties and responsibilities from professionals. I received direct feedback about their jobs and valuable advice. I thoroughly benefited from my job shadow at Direct Supply in Milwaukee. They were very welcoming and informative.

If you are interested in participating in the Winter Break 2012 Job Shadow program, and would like more information, including detailed descriptions of the opportunities available at the employers, please contact Greg Iaccarino, Career and Internship Advisor, at gjiaccar@wisc.edu to fill out an interest survey for placement within the program.

Straight from the employers: Tips on standing out

The October 2011 issue of The Tapestry (Multicultural Student Center Newsletter), written by Rachel Kuo, had a great article with advice on how to stand out to an employer. Read on to get some tips directly from the mouths of recruiters.

Know how to communicate your strengths and experience.

“Make a strong first impression and communicate your values by explaining your choices and processes. It’s impressive when you can walk people through your decisions.” - Paul Taylor, Cooper Bussman

“We look for energy, leadership, outgoing personalities, communication skills and adaptability in potential employees. Don’t be afraid to show yourself off in an interview by telling us your stories of success.” –Kathy Backstrom, Target

Get involved as much as possible.

“Volunteer and service experiences provide graduates with transferrable skill sets in time management, team leadership, data collection, communications and critical thinking.” - Kobena Marcus Collins, CityYear

“You can make yourself more competitive for internships by taking on leadership roles in classroom projects or student organizations.” -Kathy Backstrom, Target

Research the company.

“Tailor your resume for the specific job you’re applying for and be prepared for questions that aren’t just technical-based.” -Joel Harmon, Cargill

Academics are just as important as work experience.

“The key pieces to success are to keep your grades up while also gaining working and leadership experience.” - Ya Yang, General Mills

“Internships are a great way to stand out in the job market, and they provide a real opportunity to combine course work with real job applications.”


Check out some photos of students who took advantage of the networking event prior to the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair last month.




Source:
Kuo, Rachel. "Employers Give Some Tips on How to Stand out as a Potential Candidate." Tapestry (Oct. 2011): 5. http://msc.wisc.edu/tapestry/TapestryOctober2011.pdf

To stay updated on job, volunteer and internship opportunities, follow @UWMulticultural on Twitter or like "UW-Madison Multicultural Student Center" on Facebook.

Professional Development- What is that?

You may have heard the words "professional development" as a way to build your skills and resume for your future career. Attending professional conferences is one form of professional development. Read on to hear about Lauren Foley's experience as an undergraduate student who recently attended her first professional conference.

On October 21st and 22nd I had the privilege of attending the Wisconsin College Personnel Association (WCPA) Conference in the Wisconsin Dells to participate in the Student Affairs 101 portion for undergraduates. This was my first time attending a professional conference, and I was very excited and interested to learn more about the student affairs field and network with other undergraduates, graduates and professionals.

Right from the start I was introduced to undergraduate students from every University of Wisconsin college, where we participated and listened to seasoned professionals in smaller workshops. We were able to attend two of the three workshops on Student Development Theory, Resume Writing, and Introduction to Student Affairs. Working within career services, I opted for the Student Development Theory and Intro to Student Affairs. Paul Shepherd, a professional from UW-River Falls, gave us a glimpse into Student Development Theory, and how it relates to Student Affairs. He introduced us to this topic because it is a core part to curriculums of Student Affairs graduate programs. I really enjoyed his workshop because as a future graduate student, I was able to see a glimpse of what one of the courses would be like.

The Intro to Student Affairs workshop I attended was led by Scott Seyforth, an educator from UW-Whitewater, and PhD student at UW-Madison. Right away he and I connected with our love of the Badgers and all things football, as well as all things Student Affairs. The best element of this workshop was realizing that within a university, Student Affairs covers so many different areas and aspects of a University.

Thinking about my own career path, although I have a general direction I am headed, I realize that I have so many options it’s almost overwhelming! During and after the workshops, we had chances to interact and network with other undergraduates and talk about their student affairs experiences. Most of them were from Residence Life, who really influence freshman and other students living in the residence halls. After hearing more about it, I became really interested in this area, and I was sparked to look into possible residence life opportunities for internships and graduate assistant positions in graduate school.

Later in the conference I was able to meet additional professionals and hear about their background. I loved learning where they earned their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Each person I met with had a really different path and interesting story for how they stumbled into Student Affairs, and every one of them loves what they do. Everyone I met with at the conference and everyone I continue to meet in Student Affairs has a passion for bettering their university, and influencing student’s lives in a positive way, whether that is in Residence Life programs or where I work, as a Peer Advisor helping students with resumes and career advice. This positive energy surrounding Student Affairs has really encouraged me to continue my journey towards finishing my undergraduate degree and pursuing graduate school in the field.

I intend to take part in any other professional development opportunity available to me, as I suggest any student should. You can learn a lot, and build relationships with others in the field, which can prove very beneficial to me now and in the future.

Lauren Foley is a Junior at UW Wisconsin- Madison studying English with certificates in Educational Policy & Integrated Liberal Studies

Recap of Day in the Field Visit to Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

L&S CAREER SERVICES STUDENTS AND STAFF ON THE ROOFTOP PATIO OF MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL'S DOWNTOWN LOCATION

On a warm fall day on October 14th, a group of 9 students and 3 Career Services staff members took a Day in the Field Trip to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. This was one of the best Day in the Field programs that occurred, in which there were many opportunities for the students to meet with all levels of staff members to learn about the most current trends in journalism, communications and digital media, and how the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel is positioning itself to best meet these trends.


Highlights of the visit included a tour of all 6 floors of the historic downtown Milwaukee location, including a trip back in time to the old printing press in the basement that was used for many decades. Visits to the newsroom, marketing/advertising departments, circulation section, and the publisher/editor gave the students an excellent sense of the inner workings of one of Wisconsin’s major media sources. The Journal Sentinel boasts a strong investigative reporting focus, with some of their reporters recently receiving Pulitzer Prizes for their work.

Perhaps the finest part of the experience were the thorough speed networking sessions that the students had with all of the executives of the organization and newer employees. These sessions enabled each student to have one-on-one networking and informational interview time. Students were personally invited to submit their resumes for anticipated future internships and career openings at the paper.

Student testimonials from the trip, which were drawn from student evaluations about their experience include:

1.) The field trip today was excellent because students got a more in-depth feel of working at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Meeting the staff one on one was very helpful because they offered practical, hands-on advice about getting started on job search and finding opportunities. My favorite part was by far sitting with executives also one on one and learning about the different career paths available at the newspaper. Those opportunities are rare and I am happy I was able to participate.


2.) The trip was a rewarding experience because it gave me a glimpse into the life in a newsroom. It was nice talking to people who worked there because it gave me insight into what I need to do to establish a career in communications and/or journalism.


3.) I really enjoyed being able to meet with the managing editor and publisher. I'm in this constant worry about finding a job and they gave me advice that the future of a journalist is really not just being a reporter but being someone who knows about the technological aspects of everything; how to make and manage a website, social media and search engine optimization. That was great to hear since we learn so much technology in the journalism school and there are some moments when I wonder if they will actually come into play again.



Interested in more experiential opportunities with the Journal Sentinel? Please stay tuned for more information about our Winter Break Job Shadow program that will soon be on the L&S Career Services website http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/careers

SPEED NETWORKING SESSIONS OF STUDENTS AND MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL STAFF MEMBERS (BELOW)

Looking for an opportunity to give back once you graduate? Check out City Year Milwaukee on Nov. 1

“Own your experience.” Those were the words of wisdom passed down to me by a City Year alumnus during my first few weeks of training. I wasn’t quite sure what that meant, but I felt compelled to do just that. So, I embraced the “squishy” moments, took on the leadership opportunities, jumped into the culture and perhaps the most important, devoted myself to my students.

Those ten months flew by with great speed. So much happened within that time span that has helped to shape my character. As a corps member, I wore many hats with my service to my students. I was a teacher, a tutor, a mentor, an older sister, a counselor, an event planner, and so much more. I thought that I was a patient person before I came to City Year, but my students taught me a whole new meaning to patient. Tutoring sessions could change into conflict mediation at the drop of a hat. However, I learned how to adapt to the ever-changing situations of the day.

While serving as a corps member, I realized that service is something that I want to be apart of for the rest of my life. That is why I am thrilled to be working as a Children’s Associate for the Sojourner Family Peace Center. I am able to combine my love for education and social service with this position. The skills that I developed during my service year continue to help me today. I still use the system of Q2Qs, which we used for detailing meetings and event planning, to keep me organized. Not to mention, my boss is amazed by my ability to ‘in-kind’ or get food donated for the programs that we host, another skill I obtained at City Year.

I am very grateful for my time with City Year Milwaukee. It provided me with a good opportunity for me to give back to my city. I served alongside a dynamic group of individuals who provided powerful service each and everyday. This was a life changing experience that has helped to shape me into the leader that I am today and continue to strive to be for tomorrow.

Written by Alimatu Sirleaf, Founding Corps Member of City Year Milwaukee.


Above Photo: Alimatu Sirleaf (center) with fellow City Year Milwaukee Corps Members on the day of Corps Graduation, including UW-Madison Alumnus, Sasha Moore (far left).

You have the chance to visit City Year Milwaukee Headquarters on
Tuesday, Nov. 1 (3-9pm).

• Meet current corps members, alumni, staff and potential corps members
• Learn about the application process and how to become a corps member
• Hear about the benefits of serving with City Year Milwaukee

RSVP required.
Please contact Greg Iaccarino at gjiaccar@wisc.edu by October 26

Transportation Provided by Letters and Science Career Services for the first 12 students.

Please visit CityYear.org for more information on how to become a volunteer.

Next application deadline: November 15th.

Dressing For a Job Interview

Let’s face it, as college students our daily outfits often consist of sweatpants, leggings and T-shirts that you may or may not have slept in last night. Comfort is king and sometimes it’s hard to snap out of that mode. But what if the occasion requires it? Job interviews are one of the few reasons to take off the sweatpants and pray you still fit into that suit your mom made you buy in high school.

Because job interviews are all about creating a good impression and doing what’s appropriate, the rule of thumb is to play it safe and stay traditional.

As a style blogger who soon will be doing some interviewing of my own, I have given considerable thought to this subject. Read on to see outfit choices for men and women.

Men:

Wear a suit! You’ll look sharp and professional, especially if it is black, navy or dark gray. Wear it with a white or pastel colored shirt and pair it with a coordinating silk tie, making sure the pattern of your tie isn’t too crazy. Wear dark colored socks – no gym socks! The socks should coordinate with your suit and/or shoes, but if you don’t know what color is appropriate, just wear black ones. Make sure there aren’t scuffmarks on your shoes and that the heels aren’t run down. Get them shined or repaired if there is time. Get a haircut the week before your interview and if you have facial hair, make sure it is neat and trimmed. Don’t wear earrings if your ears are pierced, and try to keep other jewelry to a minimum. In other words, wear the class ring but leave the gold chain behind.


Women:

The same rules apply to you, believe it or not. Wear a suit! A business professional woman can still look chic, as long as her suit is up-to-date and tailored. Stay conservative with your blouse, sticking to classic white or pastel colors. You should wear heels, but only if you are comfortable walking in them. Make sure they aren’t your highest stilettos and make sure they are closed-toe. If you’re more comfortable in flats, make sure they are dressy, basic and in a neutral color (again, black is best). If you’re wearing a skirt, wear hosiery. Wear your hair in a natural and simple style;. If you have bangs, make sure they are trimmed and don’t cover your eyes. Wear makeup, but don’t make it obvious – stick to neutral colors and leave that red lipstick at home. Make sure your nail polish is a normal color – no greens, blacks or purples – and trim your nails so that they aren’t daggers.


Both Men and Women:

I cannot emphasize this enough: do not wear overpowering cologne or perfume. You will most likely be in an office, and suffocating your interviewer with Old Spice or Clinique Happy will NOT land you the job. Don’t chew gum or suck on a mint during your interview. Keep your pockets empty; you don’t want to jingle when you’re walking down the halls of the office. Bring a briefcase or portfolio with you and put a extra copies of your resume, a legal pad and pen in it.

Exceptions to these rules:

There are certain circumstances in which dressing with a little more creativity for your interview might benefit you. If you’re interviewing for a job at an advertising agency, graphic design company, music industry or the like, you can probably put a little more personal touch into your outfit. For women, add a statement necklace or a colorful bag. For men, play around with the pattern of your tie or add a pocket square to your suit. But remember, first impressions are everything, so don’t go too crazy.

There are plenty of places to shop for these looks, from less expensive stores like H&M to more expensive stores like J. Crew and Banana Republic (J. Crew even offers a student discount!). But remember, a suit is an investment and you will most likely be wearing it for many years to come (especially if you nail your interview) so spending now will most likely pay off. And you can always break up a suit and wear just the bottoms or just the tops to make it more versatile in the future.

Anna is a junior at the University of Missouri studying Advertising and Public Relations. She runs a style blog called Forward or Die.

The Top Do's and Don'ts of Interviewing

Need some advice on talking with recruiters? I talked to several hiring personnel who have lots of experience interviewing candidates. They’ve seen it all – including one woman who wouldn’t go home, but insisted on finishing her interview after getting sick, according to Nicole Hilsenhoff from Epic. Use their expert tips to avoid being known as “that horrible candidate,” instead being the perfect one who gets the position!

WHAT NOT TO DO AT AN INTERVIEW

1. Don’t swear in an interview no matter how casual the environment.
- Nicole Hilsenhoff, Epic
2. Don’t flirt with or ask your recruiter out – it’s not as charming as it sounds.
- Nicole Hilsenhoff, Epic
3. Never mention money/salary. Most companies will have already done research in order to provide the most competitive salaries possible for the position and location. Therefore, be aware that salaries will be relative to location (i.e. salaries for the east and west coast locations may be higher than the Midwest, but the cost of living is also much higher).
- Ya Yang, General Mills
4. Never talk bad about a co-worker, a previous employer, or fellow student to make yourself look better. In business there will be conflict, and we like to see how you turn negative situations into positive ones.
- Ya Yang, General Mills
5. Don’t rush through an interview – don’t schedule appointments immediately following an interview in the event that it runs longer than anticipated.
- Nicole Hilsenhoff, Epic



HOW TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION

1. Let the recruiter know that you're interested in the job and why you'd be a good fit.
- Nicole Hilsenhoff, Epic
2. Have examples ready for an interviewer’s questions (i.e. “Tell me about…”).
- Vickie Bortz, Federal Bureau of Prisons
3. Let the recruiter know what impressed you about the company and how you connect to their mission.
- Nicole Hilsenhoff, Epic
4. Do research on the company.
- Ya Yang, General Mills
5. Make good eye contact.
- Vickie Bortz, Federal Bureau of Prisons
6. Have an idea of what you want to do. For example, if you’re a Finance major, have an idea of what areas of finance interest you.
- Ya Yang, General Mills
7. Be yourself. Recruiters can tell when you're being phony.
- Nicole Hilsenhoff, Epic


For more in-depth interviewing preparation visit our website: http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/careers/students/interview_prep.html

INROADS: Launch Your Career Now!

I knew at a young age I wanted to be successful in life and go to college, however I didn’t know how to get there. I had no clue on the preparation? Identifying a career path?

My name is Eileen Williamson. INROADS was my beginning and actually put me on the path of starting my career. INROADS is a national career development organization whose mission is to develop and place talented under-served youth in business and industry and prepare them for corporate and community leadership.

I attended DePaul University, majoring in Business, and I just knew I was going to be “big time”. I didn’t know in what role, industry, or how to make my degree work for me. I’m so glad I wasn’t too busy and took notice of INROADS and its leadership development. I have made long lasting connections with my peers, recruiters, and managers to last a lifetime.

INROADS is family. You know how family stands beside you, sticks up for you, fight to protect you, and push you to be your very best! The INROADS family believed in me and exposed me to Corporate America.

My belief in myself along with INROADS training equipped me with tools to obtain a sponsored internship. I was matched with Liberty Mutual and interned for 3 summers from my Freshman-Junior Year. At the end of my junior year internship, my goal was to get a permanent job offer. Do you think I got the Job?

I got my job offer! I was ahead of the game and went into my senior year with secured employment. I would not have been in position to interview with Liberty Mutual without Inroads training: the firm handshake w/ eye contact, dressing for interview, how to sell your top abilities. I am proud to say INROADS has graduated over 24,000 talented youth from Interns to full-time managerial jobs with over 1,000 major companies.

INROADS today is even more vital in our growing national/international markets. Career opportunities range from Business, Engineering, Computer & Information Science, Sales, Marketing, Allied Healthcare, Retail Management, and many more. I have come full circle first as an intern, converted full time employee, and now as a staff member of the very organization that started it all. As an employee, I represent and give back to an organization that I know firsthand can be your next level opportunity!

I share all this to say, where will your planning and preparation take you? Are you ready to act and get real life work experience in your career field? The time to Deliver on your Expected Results is now. INROADS was a critical piece to my professional career and where I got my beginnings…where will your dreams take you?

INROADS is a national career development organization whose mission is to develop and place talented under-served youth in business and industry and prepare them for corporate and community leadership. To be eligible one must be a college freshman or sophomore with cumulative grade point average 2.8 or better. INROADS Interns benefit from multi-year internships at top pay per summer, the potential for a full-time job offer, and an assigned corporate mentor.

Apply online today at www.inroads.org or look for me at the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair Tuesday, Sept. 27 6-8pm in the Red Gym.

INROADS Information Session
Date: Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Time: Noon-1:30 pm
Where: Rm. 58 Bascom Hall

*Open to all interested students

Tips to Prepare for the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event!

Get Ready for the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event this week!

If you were not able to attend the Fall Career and Internship Fair on September 15, or you are interested in following up with any employers that you saw at that fair, now is your chance to participate in the upcoming

Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event

Tuesday, September 27

5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Armory & Gymnasium (Red Gym), 716 Langdon Street

You are welcome to stop by at any portion of the event.

The specific schedule is:

5:00 – 6:00 p.m.: Mingle with employers in the MSC Student Lounge on the 2ndFloor of the Red gym. “Coaches” will be available to help you network with employers and make important connections!

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.: Connect with employers hiring for internships and full-time positions in the On Wisconsin Room of the Red Gym.

All UW-Madison students are invited to this event to meet with employers that are committed to a strong and diverse workforce of talented and dedicated individuals. With 30 employers participating, this fair will be smaller than the one earlier this month. Thus, there will be more opportunities to personally connect for a longer period of time the employers that will be participating. This is your chance to learn more about how your interests, experiences and education can fulfill the goals of the employers, whether it be through an internship or full-time job opportunity.

To help you best prepare for this event, we encourage your to follow the below steps! If you have any questions or would like any additional assistance from our office to prepare you, please contact us to set up a career advising appointment or come to our drop-in hours, which are listed on our website: http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/careers

Good luck and aim for success!

A.) Before the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event

• Attend the Resume Writing/How to Make the Best Use of the Multicultural Career/Internship Fair & Networking Event Workshop, on Monday September 26 from 5:30 – 6:30 in the Multicultural Student Center Conference Room of the Red Gym. You will learn how to make the most out of your attendance at the career fair, learn effective networking strategies, and craft an outstanding resume!

• Research the organizations participating in the Fair. Review corporate profiles and employment information. A list of participating organizations is at:

https://bus-wisc-csm.symplicity.com/events/students.php?mode=list&cf=MCIF2011

• Prepare a one-minute “commercial/elevator speech” to: introduce yourself, demonstrate that you know something about the company, express why you’re interested in working for them and how your skills relate to what you know about that organization’s needs.

• Be prepared with questions to ask employers. Practice out loud!

• Know the general types of positions in which you have an interest and where you want to go with your career.

• Have a resume that’s digestible in one minute’s reading by busy employers.

• Be organized! Prepare a list of employers you want to visit during the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair.

B.) During the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event

• Business casual attire is suggested. Please look neat and polished. Recruiters will remember you!

• Make eye contact when introducing yourself to employers. Shake hands firmly and pay close attention to what the representative is saying.

• Ask questions about the organization and current employment opportunities.

• Be enthusiastic! Smile and project interest in the employer.

• Ask representatives for their business cards.

• Ask how you should best follow up, and who the contact person is.

• Make notes as you leave each employer you’re interested in. You want to be prepared if you have further contact with a company representative.

C.) After the Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event

• Send a thank you and another copy of your resume to employer representatives of particular interest to you. In your note briefly describe an additional strength of yours that you didn’t get to mention at the fair and restate your interest in interviewing with them.

• Be prepared to interview with organizations of interest after the Fair. Severalorganizations will conduct on-campus interviews at one of the career services offices on campus during the time period after the fair.

SAMPLE QUESTIONS TO ASK EMPLOYERS WHEN YOU MEET WITH THEM AND NETWORK WITH THEM

The Multicultural Career and Internship Fair & Networking Event is a great opportunity to talk with employer representatives about their organizations and employment opportunities. Be prepared to ask questions! Don't be uncomfortable approaching the recruiters. They will be eager to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. Here is a list of suggested questions to help you get started:

• What skills or traits do you look for in candidates?

• What is your company’s hiring timeline?

• What are some of the key responsibilities of this job/internship?

• What is a typical career path for someone coming in at my level?

• What kind of training program does your firm have? Formal/Informal? Short term/Long term?

• What is a day like in this position?

• What type of formal education is required for entry-level, mid-level, upper-level, positions?

• Do people filling this type of position work in a structured or non-structured environment?

• How is performance evaluated? How often?

• What degree of task variety would a person see in their first year?

• What opportunities did you take advantage of while you were in college to help you prepare for your job?

• How did you begin your career? If you had anything to do differently, what would you have liked it be?

• How would you describe your job?

• What do you like/dislike most about your job?

• How much client contact do you have?

• How much contact do you have with others inside your firm?

• How much freedom do you have in terms of deciding what you want to work on and how to plan the project? How much does this change with experience?

• What is your company's policy on continuing education? For example, will they reimburse you for classes taken towards higher education?

• Is relocation/travel typically required in this career field?

• Where does your organization have offices within the U.S.? Worldwide?

• How easy/difficult is it to transfer to another location?

• What professional societies or associations should I join?

• Which professional publications in this field should I read?

• What important changes are occurring in your field now? How will they affect the career of someone like me just starting out in your field?

Are You Ready For the Career and Internship Fair on Thursday?

Last week's topic on career fair prep mentioned a few good tips for the fair. Looking for more? Come to one of our Career Fair/Resume Prep workshops this week held at the newly formed Academic and Career Advising Center (ACAC), which will be co-presented by a career counselor and recruiter.

Career Fair and Resume Prep workshops:
Middleton Building: 1305 Linden Dr. Room 120
Tuesday Sept. 13: 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Wednesday Sept 14: Noon - 1:00pm

**Extended drop in hours this week from 9:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Thursday for 15 minute resume critiques and other quick questions.

Don't forget: Resume Assistance is also located at College Library: Wednesdays from 5:00 - 7:00 pm

Great handouts on resumes can also be found on our website at http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/careers/students/resumes.html

Fall Career and Internship Fair: Thursday, Sept. 15 4:30-8pm at the Kohl Center

The Employer Scoop: Secrets to Success at the Career Fair

Who better to get advice from than hiring personnel about how to work the Career Fair to your advantage? The individuals representing an employer are the ones you have to connect with, not the paper description of the company. Employers love the less formal setting of the Career Fair for this reason. Jon Finch of Milwaukee Tool explains, “We are hiring the entire person, not just the person in the interview. Their ability to make conversation at the fair and talk about their experiences helps us to understand who we are hiring.” So how can you make a positive impression? Here are tips from employers – they know what they want to see; take their advice and rack up the interviews!

Employers are in agreement – internships and other experience are very important. These are the things they look for first on a resume. Start early! Our office can help – check us out at http://www.lssaa.wisc.edu/careers/. Finch wants applicants to show “how [they] have worked in addition to their education.”

Many students are concerned about standing out from other job hunters. Chris Schueler of Medline Industries recommends an old-fashioned thank-you note. But don’t just make a general one for every employer you talked to. Add in comments about what you discussed. Remind the representative about your experience. Be enthusiastic about the company.

Don’t be general and basic when talking to employers, either. Finch and Schueler both believe that researching companies you are interested in is the most important thing you can do to prepare. Their pet peeve is when students come up asking what a company does and what majors they hire. Buckynet is a great resource for finding out more about the employers attending. You can see the full list at https://bus-wisc-csm.symplicity.com/events/students.php?mode=list&cf=FCIF2011.

Tailor yourself to the company. “Their qualifications should be identified as how they could positively affect the potential employer,” Finch says. Schueler advises that the top thing to keep in mind is to “do your research and be yourself. Make sure it is a fit for you and the company. It needs to be a fit on both sides.”

Now that you have the information you need to properly prepare for the Career Fair, don’t forget to mark it on your calendar. Be there to speak with over two hundred employers on Thursday, September 15 from 4:30-8:00 p.m. at the Kohl Center!