Services for Parents FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions by Parents:
When should my son or daughter begin to use the Career Development Office? We welcome students as soon as they begin their college experience. We are located in the lower level of Founders and are open M-F 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
What should my son or daughter be doing during college with regard to careers?
Self - Assessment: The first couple of years in college, students generally are adjusting to college life, exploring who they are through courses and extra curricular activities and should begin to assess their skills, interests and values. We can help students with self-assessment through individual counseling and tools such as the Campbell Interest and Skills Survey (CISS) and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). These tools help the student explore interests, skills and values as they begin to make decisions about their future career.
Each spring semester, we offer a 1 credit hour course (GS 255) that helps students with career/life planning decisions, and transition issues.
Exploring/Testing their options: During their college years, students should be exploring and testing career options. (Be sure to review "How to Choose a Major That's Right for You" on our homepage.) Students should experiment with career fields through internships, summer and part-time jobs and volunteer work. Our office can help with the search for these opportunities.
How can I help my son/daughter be more marketable for jobs or graduate school?
Academics: Developing intellectual competence and academic skill is a priority; good grades are an important evaluation method. Students need to work hard to learn and obtain the best grades they can. There are many resources available on campus to assist with study skills, time management skills, tutoring and more. Encourage your son/daughter to pursue of these opportunities.
Leadership: Employers and Graduate Programs not only seek candidates who are academically excellent, but those who are well rounded and demonstrate a variety of "soft" skills. Encourage your son/daughter to get involved in campus clubs and activities to develop these skills.
Adapted from Daniel Ryan, State University of New York at Buffalo