Career Development Center

Common Concerns

The following are some common concerns parents may have regarding their students.

When should my student begin to use the Career Development Center?
We welcome students as soon as they begin their college experience. We can assist freshmen and transfer students with all career-related issues including choosing a major or career, to finding a part-time job or internship.

What should my student be doing during his or her first year at college with regard to careers?
The first couple of years in college, students are generally adjusting to college life, exploring who they are through coursework and co-curricular activities and should begin to assess their skills, interests and values. Our office can help with self-assessment through individual counseling whereby they can begin to make decisions about their future career.

During their college years, students should also be exploring and testing their career options to be sure they more fully understand each industry. Students should experience various fields through internships, summer and part-time jobs and volunteer work. Our office can help students search for these opportunities in multiple ways:

  • Job and internship listings
  • Career library resources
  • Job shadowing opportunities

How can I help my student be a more marketable candidate for jobs or graduate school?
Employers in all industries value academic success, and outstanding achievement is mandatory for acceptance into top-tier graduate programs, fellowships and national awards. There are many resources available on campus to assist students in enhancing their academic skills. Encourage your student to form strong relationships with their academic advisor and faculty and utilize the Center for Academic Excellence's (CAE) resources.

In addition to students' academic success, students should compliment their academic program with substantive co-curricular experiences. Employers and graduate programs not only seek candidates who are academically excellent, but those who are well-rounded and demonstrate a variety of transferable and adaptive skills. Some typical attributes that they seek in candidates are the capacity to think critically, problem-solve, and communicate effectively. Additionally, characteristics such as team work, initiative, adaptability, self-confidence, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently are highly valued. Encouraging your student to get involved in campus clubs and activities can be an excellent way for students to develop these skills.

What kind of resources does Occidental provide for students with disabilities?
The CAE also coordinates services for students with disabilities or learning differences.