One of the resources I’ve used most during my time at Nazareth is the Center for Life’s Work. Each Nazareth student has a Career Coach dedicated to their own major and program of study, and they can help you work on things related to your professional development, including field placements, internships, and job searches. Whether you need help editing your resume and cover letter, or want to practice before a big interview, the Career Coaches will likely become your go-to resource. Here is some advice for new students at Nazareth, from the Coaches themselves!
Alison Albright (Career Coach for Humanities, Social Sciences, Global Studies) – I think it’s important to realize that you don’t need to have all of the answers right at the beginning of your college career. College is a great time for exploration, and it is more than okay to be undecided or unclear about your major or career path. You will start to focus your interests by taking classes and getting involved on campus.
Josh Bauroth (Career Coach for Science and Mathematics majors, and undeclared majors) – Make sure to get involved in anything you can. Volunteer, check out the Center for Civic Engagement, pick up a work study or student worker job, or join a club based on what interests you. You never know what could impact your future! Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially when it comes to the Career Coaches – we are here to answer them! If we don’t have the answer, we’ll be sure to help you find one.
Heather DiFino (Career Coach for music therapy (undergrad and grad) and art therapy) – Make use of the your support system, and the people around you both on and off campus. Consult your academic advisor, your professors and faculty in your program of study, and even your family and friends. Your career path isn’t linear. There are many ways to get to where you’re going, and these people can help you along the way.
Emily Fasel (Career Coach for School of Management Majors) – I would recommend that students get involved early and stay involved, even if it’s something that you wouldn’t normally think of yourself doing. This will allow you to find new passions and interests. Also, begin interacting with your professors outside of class, as they are often great resources for learning about the college and networking with employers and alumni. They may even become great references for grad school, jobs, and internships.
Lisa Heisman (Career Coach for Nursing) – Getting your degree will be a huge accomplishment, and there will be many people along the way who will help you get there! Take time to nurture your relationships with your family, friends, professors and yourself – this will make the road ahead a lot easier and more meaningful!
Michael Kahl (Career Coach for Education) – Remember, everything counts! Your grades, your activities, your part-time and summer jobs, and your volunteering all contribute to what you have to offer to employers, so make sure to get involved as much as possible when you arrive at Nazareth. You make career decisions every day when you decide to join a club, attend a lecture, or complete your coursework. These are the mini-decisions that, in the long run, become your career choice. It’s not just the things you do, but who you become by doing them, that determine the kind of person you will become.
Emily Marchese (Career Coach for College of Arts & Sciences and International Internships) – Focus on your life’s work, rather than just your job. Thinking about the specific job or role you want can be limiting; think outside the box and consider the impact you want to make in your community. We love to hear about your interests and passions, and these can help you decide what your life’s work will be!
Emily Pelkowski (Career Coach for Art, Music, Theatre, and undeclared majors) – If you already know that you’re passionate about a certain area of study, or even a job or internship, just know that it is never too early to start! No matter what stage of the process you’re at, the Career Coaches can help you.
Also, when you’re within your first 24 months at Nazareth, make sure you check out the SPARK Grant. It can help make unpaid and underpaid internship and service opportunities more attainable and feasible.
Kathryn Tonkovich (Career Coach for human resources development, human resources management, management grad students, and for employers and alumni) – Follow your curiosity and try out many different things that intrigue you. From those experiences, you’ll gain insight into your strengths, skills and interests. Take advantage of your whole college experience!
Zachary Saeva (Career Coach for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work Majors) – Take things one step at a time. There are so many things you can do as you come to campus, but don’t worry about doing it all at once. It’s ok to set a few goals each week, achieve them, and then set another few goals for the next week. Even though change in college can be scary. I encourage you to say yes to change. Remember that “life begins at the end of your comfort zone.”