The benefits for students to participate in summer internships is firmly on everyone’s radar; the College, Career Services, employers, students, and parents. For the Class of 2016, according to the 2016 Job Outlook Survey conducted by NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers), “employers…plan to hire 11 percent more college graduates for U.S. jobs this year than in 2015.” Career Services’ Gateway program provides all the resources necessary to assist students with their search.
- Document preparation: Resumes, cover letters, writing samples, professional email outreach.
- Students can utilize online and office resources, as well as work with their Gateway counselors, to prepare application documents which best represent them and their accomplishments…inside and outside the classroom.
- Search Resources: CareerSpot, LACN (Liberal Arts Career Network), LinkedIn, EngIn, LGBTQA Career Resource Library, Passport Careers, Internships-USA, and more.
- Networking: Students can meet with their Gateway counselors to discuss ways to reach out to and connect with alumni, as well as how to professionally utilize LinkedIn to grow their vital career network. Also, registration opens soon for our June student & alumni networking receptions in Boston and Washington, D.C.!
- Interviewing: We have a wealth of resources dedicated to helping students prepare for this crucial skill. In addition to mock interviews with Gateway counselors, students can do mock interviews through our Recruiters in Residence program and utilize InterviewStream (an outstanding 24/7 online tool we subscribe to for all Lafayette students).
- Informational Interviews: Informational interviews provide students with a way to gather information on careers, industries, organizations, and relevant skills in areas of interest. Career Services can connect students with alumni, and provide them with resources to reach out professionally and conduct their informational interview to their best advantage. Additionally, students can reach out to their own contacts, such as family, friends, community members, etc.
Upcoming Spring programs, which students can find on the College’s Calendar of Events:
- Jump-Starting Your Internship Search
- Resume Writing 101
- Leveraging LinkedIn for Networking & Beyond
- LinkedIn Profile Drop-In
Parents can be an important resource, too! By encouraging your student to engage with Career Services and utilize the resources we provide, you can support your student’s effort to build their career network, create professional documents, and interview effectively. Additionally, if you would like to hire or provide opportunities at your organization for Lafayette interns or seniors/alumni for full-time opportunities, we would be happy to partner with you.
Encourage your student to call or stop in at Career Services on the second floor of Hogg Hall anytime during office hours to learn more about our resources and/or arrange an appointment with a Gateway counselor!
Career Services
(610) 330-5115
blythea@lafayette.edu