Up for Discussion: Helping the transition to career

Moving from the academic world into a career can be a huge transition for students, but they need to be given the space to stand on their own two feet and grow in the direction they feel is right for them.

"Parents understandably want the best for their children's future," says Emil Rodolfa, director of Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). "But they also have to trust that students can make good solid decisions about their life after college."

Provide a support network

Life has its ups and downs. The parents' job is to help their child manage the downs, not protect them from everything life may throw their way, Rodolfa says. He encourages parents to provide a strong support network without micromanaging their children's lives after graduation.

"Life involves taking risks, stepping out into the world," Rodolfa says. "Encourage your child to try new and different things — it could open great doors for them."

Clear communication is also critical to helping a student make the jump into the real world. Rodolfa encourages parents to talk to their student about their future plans to determine if they are clear or confused. CAPS also offers a variety of services for students struggling with this transition.

"It's important to honor their ideas about their future even if they don't match what you would like to see them do," Rodolfa says.

Career services

As students are preparing to make the transition into a professional career, they may benefit from numerous services offered through the Internship and Career Center (ICC). Martha Schuster, a coordinator at ICC, says each year hundreds of students attend workshop presentations on career decision-making and goal setting, effective job search methods, interview skills, resume writing and transitioning from college to career.

"Students have most likely developed a pattern of making many good decisions during their time at the university," says Schuster.

Schuster offers the following tips for students starting a new job:

• Develop and use effective communication skills — the No. 1 skill employers seek.
• Establish a good working relationship with your supervisor and co-workers.
• Be prepared to pay your dues.
• Absorb information, and spend your first year learning as much as possible.
• Be willing to admit what you don't know.
• Learn the organization's culture and personality so you can adapt to it.
• Recognize the reality of office politics.
• Build a network of relationships with key people.
• Set goals for your first year that includes gaining acceptance, respect and credibility.

Additional help, including a Career Resource Manual and Career Planning Guide, may be found on the site for ICC's undergraduate services.