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Career Advising Services Available to All Southeast Students

by Lauren N. Coombs

Just a few months ago, in January 2013, the Career Advising Office hired two new career advisors, CJ Yerington and Katie Crawford. While the Career Linkages Office provides other services specifically addressing the student’s need for clarifying career choices, for guidance and direction Career Advising will have you covered.

Visiting the Career Advising Office can happen anytime throughout your years at Southeast, but typically students come in at the beginning of their time on-campus. This is the time when students are typically undecided about their major field of study. On the other hand, juniors and seniors tend to visit if they have decided they are not on the correct path, or if they want to know what other options they have with their chosen degree.

When setting up a meeting, no prior research is required. CJ stated, “We’re here to help guide you or begin your search.” They provide resources to students to help decide their major. “We never pick their major, simply help establish a direction,” CJ further explained. The more “homework” a student completes on their career interests, the more it will benefit that student. This can help provide a sense of direction. Katie explained that by taking the FOCUS career and educational planning survey, a student will have a good start on gaining insight into their interests, skills, values, personality, educational preferences and leisure preferences. These insights can lead to clarification about the goals you want to achieve in your career. FOCUS is normally accomplished as a part of the CL 001 co-requisite associated with UI-100, First Year Seminar.

Deciding on a career is no easy task, but both career advisors offered some helpful thoughts. “You are not alone; if you don’t know what to do, that’s why we’re here. We don’t want students to feel overwhelmed,” said Katie. “It’s never too early to start thinking about a career,” CJ explained. “Even senior year of high school, the thought process should start that early.”

Finally, get involved while at Southeast – it’s a step in the right direction! Both advisors believe it provides a sound foundation for a successful future career. Katie said, “Get involved while you’re at Southeast. Build your résumé while you’re here. It’s much harder to do outside, after college.”

“Begin with the end in mind,” CJ said. Student clubs, organizations and the community are great places to begin joining activities. This also provides insight into a student’s industry, which can help make sure the student is on the path they really want. It further aids in building your career. Job shadowing can give key insights and can show if the career is a good fit. CJ’s finally comment, “Experience works two fold, offering opportunities and helping you decide if it’s a good fit.”

The staff of the Career Advising Office is developing a new website and online resources this summer. The goal is for everything to be ready for students in the fall. This will provide students with additional resources, even before visiting Career Advising. Look for the Career Advising pages to come!