Though valued by employers, a college degree in and of itself does not automatically lead to a good job. Employers want assurance that you can help them solve problems and reach their goals. They want to know that you have developed and demonstrated competencies considered essential in the workplace.
Based on extensive research among employers, the National Association of Colleges and Employers identified competencies that determine career-readiness; you can explore these competencies on the NACE Career Readiness webpage.
Which competencies have you demonstrated? If you need help thinking about this, list the different roles you’ve had (volunteer, student organization member, athlete, employee, etc.). For each, list problems you’ve solved, decisions you’ve had to make, group activities in which you’ve actively participated, and ways you’ve communicated to individuals and groups. Which competencies do you need to develop or strengthen?
Career-readiness competencies can be developed through part-time jobs, volunteer activities, campus involvement, academic projects, internships, cooperative education, and studying abroad. To learn more about experiential learning opportunities and developing career-readiness competencies, schedule an appointment with a Career Consultant through Handshake.
