Vandy in Exploration Toolkit by VanderbiltCareerCenter

VANDY IN EXPLORATION

2024-2025 TOOLKIT

Despite not being grounded in one industry, the Vandy in Exploration community is dedicated to providing undergraduate students with the fundamental knowledge and skills to navigate the competitive job market confidently and empowering individuals to align their interests with meaningful careers. Exploration is a continuous process regardless of one’s academic year. The resources and events provided by the Vandy in Exploration community can help individuals tap into a unique network of alumni and employers and find opportunities in any industry.

ABOUTTHEVUCAREERCENTER

The Career Center’s mission is to help students gain clarity about their future. The office plays a significant role in the Vanderbilt experience by offering a full range of services to help students with their future at Vanderbilt and beyond. Be it a career, an internship, graduate study, a fellowship, a gap year, or an entrepreneurial endeavor; our team is here to start the journey.

MEETTHEVANDYINEXPLORATIONTEAM

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As a first-generation college student, James earned a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Susquehanna University in 2019. After graduating, James served as a College and Career Counselor with the Pennsylvania chapter of the College Advising Corps for two years. His experience working with first-generation, rural students drove him to pursue and complete his M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from Vanderbilt University in 2023.

Aman e/her)

Amanda Malnik is double majoring in Economics and Law, History, and Society and minoring in Data Science. She is from Gainesville, Florida. Around campus, Amanda is involved in ‘Dore for a Day, Women in Business, and Hillel. In her free time, Amanda loves reading thriller novels, painting by numbers, and watching Formula One races. table of contents

HOWTOUSETHETOOLKIT

This toolkit is designed to provide you with comprehensive insights and guidance to navigate your career journey. Whether you’re just starting, exploring new paths, or looking to advance in your current field, this resource will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions.

While there is no ‘right’ way to approach the exploration process, we recommend that you work through the following steps in the order shown in the toolkit, as each section builds upon the knowledge/experiences you gain in the last.

HOWTOENGAGEVANDYINEXPLORATION

The easiest way to engage with the Vandy in Exploration community is by attending events we host throughout the year!

You can also set up individual coaching appointments to debrief self-assessment results, discuss what you found while researching companies and positions, and more.

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QUICKSTARTRESOURCES

The Career Center is proud to provide a robust suite of resources to support the career development of Vanderbilt students. Our team works continuously to identify and engage the best tools on the market. Here are 5 key tools we recommend to get started.

HANDSHAKE CAREERSHIFT GUIDETOLINKEDIN BIGINTERVIEW INTERSTRIDE

The Career Center’s primary online career hub. Complete your profile by adding skills, organizational involvement, and work experiences as well as filling out your “Career Interests”

A powerful network and job search tool that you have free access through your Vanderbilt email. When creating an account, put “Vanderbilt” in the Group or School Identifer Box

All students can access a step-by-step online course on how to create compelling LinkedIn profiles and to best utilize the platform.

Utilize one of our newest platform’s, Big Interview, to prepare for any upcoming interviews you might have.

The go-to site for resources on international opportunities as well as how to effectively job search as an international student. table of contents

and industries of interest, you can actively seek out EDIotential employer diversity initiatives and identity-based and examining their commitment to equity, diversity, and portunities for leadership and industry-based associations iversity is not responsible for the content from external

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VANDYPASS

ving Skills and Success) is the Career Center’s innovative dents obtain outside of the classroom by engaging in es and student organizations. Engineered by Suitable, dmap by tracking your experiential learning and empowers mployers, other institutions, and peers.

artner with VandyPASS on the Exploration Excellence commitment to personal discovery and professional growth n activities within the Vandy in Exploration community such vents

s and reflecting thoughtfully, you’ll gain crucial insights into career goals, and learn strategies for success beyond

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DATESTOKNOW-FALL

AUGUST

Tea Up Your Career Exploration (August 21st)

SEPTEMBER

Career & Self Development Program (September 4th)

Vanderbilt Major Showcase: Pathway to Your Future (September 17th)

Critical Thinking Program (September 18th)

Commodore Career Week (September 23rd - 27th)

OCTOBER

Leadership Program (October 16th)

Vandy in Exploration Week (October 21st - 25th)

Teamwork Program (October 30th)

NOVEMBER

Career Exploration Panel (November 13th)

DATESTOKNOW-SPRING

JANUARY

Equity & Inclusion Program

Mock Interview Day

FEBRUARY

Communication Program

Professionalism Program

Career Exploration Networking Night

Spring Career Fair

MARCH

Technology Program

Navigating Nashville Career Exploration Trek

APRIL

Career Exploration Panel

*Exact dates for these events will be updated closer to the Spring semester!

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ALUMNISPOTLIGHT

AVERYDICKINSDEGIRÓNBA‘90,PHD‘08

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

TOP ADVICE

Learn

Take any opportunity to build relationships, experience new things, and learn from other

Follow Your Passion

Follow your passion even if you are not sure where it is going to take you Take your tim explore; career paths do not need to be linear.

Be a Lifelong Student

Be a lifelong student and continue to evolve both personally and professionally.

“As an undergraduate, I could not have pinpointed the type of job I wanted to have, but now I realize that by following my passion I have been able to create a career that is fulfilling and challenges me to grow. A linear path directed towards fulfilling course requirements would not have led me here, but rather, required exploration, a willingness to try new things, and an openness to possibilities.”

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ALUMNISPOTLIGHT

AVERYDICKINSDEGIRÓNBA‘90,PHD‘08

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

ABOUT ME

At Vanderbilt, I majored in General Biology with a minor in History. I have always loved science and Biology tended to come easily to me. History, however, was a newer experience. was particularly fascinated by how histories are constructed, and knowledge systems, more generally. I also studied French and spent a summer at Vanderbilt-in-France during my junior year. My senior year, I took a graduate seminar in History and was hired as a TA for th introductory Biology class. Both experiences were challenging, yet rewarding, and encouraged me to pursue graduate school while also inspiring a love for teaching in m

Following graduation, I applied to doctoral programs in Molecular Biology, and was accepted t Northwestern where I began my graduate studies. Through the course of my first year of graduate school, I realized that while I loved the science, spending every day in a lab w not for me. I completed the year of school, and then took a job as a lab tech at the University California San Francisco, where I conducted research on bacterial genomes for several years tech job allowed me to support myself while I continued to explore other career paths. I several classes at San Francisco State University, and I began to study Spanish through nigh classes at a community college. I had an amazing teacher, Julio, who encouraged my interest the language and cultures of Latin America.

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ALUMNISPOTLIGHT

AVERYDICKINSDEGIRÓNBA‘90,PHD‘08

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY

ABOUT ME CONTINUED...

I also took a second job as a barista, working weekends and evenings, to save money to trave Guatemala where I immersed myself in Spanish language classes for a month. There was so much I wanted to learn and explore there that I stayed for six months, teaching English in exchange for housing. At this point, and after much exploration, my interests began to coalesce, and I returned to Vanderbilt to pursue a PhD in anthropology. My fieldwork too to Bolivia, Belize, and back to Guatemala.

For the past sixteen years, I have been the executive director of the Center for Latin American Latinx, and Caribbean Studies. My multi-disciplinary academic experiences have been an continue to be essential to my career in this interdisciplinary center. One of my favorite parts of my job is working with colleagues from across the university, which requires m continually learn and expand my base of knowledge. I have taken undergraduate students Guatemala for study abroad courses, taught classes to Nursing Students, and work closely wi colleagues in the Vanderbilt Institute of Global Health. Through CLACX, I established the Latin American Garden, which houses plants native to Latin America that have medicinal and culina uses. My scientific research experience and knowledge base has been instrumental in a these endeavors, as well as my strong sense of curiosity and desire to learn from other

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KEYSTEPSTOEXPLORATION

In the following pages, you can find more information about the below key steps to exploration in the career exploration process:

SELF-ASSESSMENT

CAREERRESEARCH

DISCOVERINGOPPORTUNITIES

EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

BRAND&STRATEGYDEVELOPMENT

A self-assessment is a process by which you evaluate your skills, interests, values, and personality traits to understand your career goals and personal development needs.

In the context of a job search, it can be an invaluable tool for identifying types of roles, industries, and work environments that most closely align with your strengths and preferences.

Reflecting on your experiences and aspirations, you can create a more targeted and effective job search strategy, leading to greater job satisfaction and long-term career success.

SKILLS

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Skill assessment is a reflective process that involves cataloging one’s competencies, encompassing technical proficiencies (such as programming or data analysis) and interpersonal aptitudes (like communication or problem-solving). It entails considering the abilities honed in various settings - previous employment, academic pursuits, voluntary activities, and personal interests. This introspective exercise can illuminate the strengths and capabilities one possesses, thereby informing career decisions and highlighting potential areas for professional development.

CareerOneStop Skills Assessment

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, CareerOneStop is a great resource that provides several self-assessments for free, including skills, interests, and values surveys.

CliftonStrengths Assessment with Vanderbilt SOLS

The Office of Student Organizations, Leadership, and Service at Vanderbilt offers free CliftonStrengths Assessments and personalized coaching on how to interpret your results.

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SELFASSESSMENT DISCOVER

An interest inventory is a self-assessment tool used in career planning to identify the types of work a person might find fulfilling. It helps individuals understand their interests, preferences, and inclinations about various occupations. The inventory typically includes questions or statements where responses indicate what activities or situations one prefers. The results can then be matched with potential careers that align with these interests, aiding in the job search by narrowing down suitable job fields. This tool can be particularly useful in guiding individuals toward a career path they may find engaging and satisfying.

Holland Code Career Quiz

In the Holland Code system, six broad occupational themes match interests and preferences: Realistic/Building, Investigative/Thinking, Artistic/Creating, Social/Helping, Enterprising/Persuading, and Conventional/Organizing.

The O*Net Interest Profiler

The O*NET Interest Profiler can help you discover your interests and how they relate to the world of work.

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SELFASSESSMENT DISCOVER

Values clarification is a process that involves identifying one’s personal and professional values to guide career choices. Personal values might include work-life balance, social impact, or creative expression, contributing to overall life satisfaction. Professional values might encompass elements of teamwork, leadership, or continuous learning, which are sought in a workplace environment. By understanding these values, individuals can align their job search toward roles and organizations that resonate with values, leading to more fulfilling and meaningful careers.

The Good Project’s Value Sort

The Value Sort is an excellent way to reflect upon what is most important to you personally and it is also a great way to stimulate conversations with peers, colleagues, and family members.

Designing Your Life Workview & Worldview

A workview addresses the critical issues related to what work is and what it means to you. It is not just a list of what you want from or out of work, but a general statement of your view of work.

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Understanding and analyzing your personality is crucial in the job search as it helps align your innate characteristics with potential career paths. Your personality traits, such as introversion or extroversion, creativity, or analytical thinking, can significantly influence your job satisfaction and performance. By recognizing these traits, you can target roles that capitalize on your natural tendencies and strengths. Furthermore, understanding your personality can aid in identifying work environments and cultures where you’re likely to thrive.

Career Aptitude Test

This free career assessment takes only 15 minutes and measures key interests and personality traits to show you the careers that suit your strengths.

The 30 Trait Personality Test

Based on a detailed model of the personality traits making up the Big Five, this test measures 30 distinct traits and provides a highly detailed assessment of your personality.

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SELFASSESSMENT DISCOVER

“Be open. The job you never thought of might be the one that fits your skill set the best. And, it may be the opportunity to sharpen skills.”

-Nicole Jules ‘06 Assistant Head of High School for Student Affairs University School of Nashville

“Take time to really think about what matters to you about your career interest(s) and where you might end up working. Ask yourself why you are interested in this career - and really dig deep with this question. And try not to compare yourself to others you know - this is your journey.”

-Dr. Brenda McKenzie Associate Professor Peabody College of Education and Human Development

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By conducting a thorough self-assessment you can make more informed decisions about your job search and career path. It can help you identify roles that you might not have previously considered, prepare more effectively for interviews by knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately find a job that is a good fit for you.

Remember, self-assessment is an ongoing process and it’s okay to revisit and revise your self-assessment as you gain more experience and your goals evolve.

If you want to debrief any self-assessments you have taken or learn more, sign up for a Vandy in

CAREERRESEARCH

Analyzing different industries involves studying trends, growth patterns, stability, and the competitive landscape of various sectors. It also includes understanding the demand for specific roles, skills, and qualifications within these industries. This analysis is crucial in the job search as it helps job seekers identify thriving industries that offer good job prospects and align their career aspirations accordingly. Furthermore, it enables individuals to make informed career decisions and tailor their applications to the needs of the industry.

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CAREERRESEARCH

Researching different job roles involves understanding the responsibilities, required skills, qualifications, and career paths associated with each role. It also includes gaining insights into the industry trends, salary ranges, and job market demand for these roles. This research is essential in the job search process as it helps job seekers to identify roles that align with their skills, interests, and career goals, and to tailor their applications accordingly. Furthermore, it enables individuals to make informed career decisions and to prepare effectively for job interviews.

CAREERRESEARCH

Researching a company involves gathering information about its mission, values, culture, products or services, and work environment. It also includes understanding the company’s financial health, industry position, and growth prospects. This research is vital in the job search as it helps job seekers determine if the company aligns with their career goals and values. Applicants can tailor their applications and interview responses to the company’s needs and culture. Furthermore, it allows candidates to make informed decisions about potential employers, ensuring they choose a company where they can grow and succeed.

OCCUPATIONALOUTLOOKHANDBOOK

Sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this website provides a wealth of information on various occupations, including education requirements, earnings, and expected job prospects.

VANDERBILTLIBRARIES’SVAULTCAREERGUIDES

Our career guides offer industry insights into what it takes to land your dream job in your chosen profession. Use Vanderbilt credentials to log in and access the guides.

Using AI resources like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT can be useful when exploring different careers at the intersection of your academic and career interests. When using these tools, it is important to remember the following information:

AI is a great way to get unstuck. It can provide templates and strategies for approaching the next step of the job search.

AI is not a know-it-all solution for finding a job/internship. While the strategies and templates are great, you will need to adapt them to fit your skills and experiences.

AI is not a career coach. Whenever you feel unsure about what to do or the information provided to you by AI, stop by the Career Center to talk with a career coach.

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AI works best when you provide specific inputs about yourself (your interests, your resume, your desired job description) and specific outputs you want (job search strategies, skills needed for the job, etc.). It’s also important to remember not to settle for the first response that you receive. Ask AI to shorten the results, be more quantitative, or where to build the skills needed, whatever you may need. Below are some beginner prompts to get you started.

Find Your Career Path

What career should I pursue with X major who likes to do Y?

Test Your Fit

How can I learn about whether X field would be a good fit for me?

Develop Your Target List

Grow Your Skills

What technical skills do I need to apply for X job?

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CAREERRESEARCH

By conducting thorough career research, you can also assess the qualifications and experience needed for specific positions, enabling you to tailor your resume and cover letter. Additionally, understanding the trends and demands within an industry can give you a competitive edge in the job market, helping you to anticipate future changes and adapt accordingly.

Ultimately, career research is an ongoing process. As you progress in your career, continue exploring new opportunities and stay updated on industry developments. This proactive approach enhances your professional growth but ensures that you remain adaptable and prepared for any challenges or changes that may arise.

Discovering opportunities in the job search involves identifying and exploring potential internships and job openings that align with your career goals. This process can include researching companies, industries, and job roles and staying updated with job postings.

Networking plays a significant role in this process. It involves building and maintaining professional relationships that can provide valuable industry insights, job leads, and referrals. Networking can occur through various channels, such as professional events, social media platforms like LinkedIn, or alumni networks. It broadens your exposure to opportunities, enhances your understanding of the job market, and enriches your job search strategy.

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JOB

BOARDS

NETWORKING INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS

SOCIAL MEDIA

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

ALUMNI NETWORK

Handshake

Handshake is the #1 way college students find jobs. Log in with your Vanderbilt credentials to explore job/internship openings, connect with the Career Center and more!

LinkedIn CareerShift

LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that allows users to create a professional profile, connect with others, and explore job opportunities. It serves as a digital resume, a job search tool, and a space for sharing industry news and professional content.

CareerShift was founded to help job seekers access the 70% of jobs that are never published on public job boards. Recognizing that who you know is critical and many job seekers have limited networks, it also serves as a networking tool. You will need to create an account to access. The “Group or School Identifier” is Vanderbilt.

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At the heart of it, networking is all about having conversations and building a relationship with people doing the work that you want to be doing. Think of it as engaging a group of people to help you along your job search and professional growth.

Networking allows individuals to tap into the ‘hidden job market’ which consists of positions filled through internal promotions, referrals, and direct contacts.

Furthermore, it helps gain insights about the industry, learn about job openings, and get career advice from experienced professionals.

“In a recent study, more than nine out of 10 students who had an internship during college engaged in networking with business professionals via informational interviews.”

–National Association of Colleges & Employers

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Informational interviews are meetings where job seekers seek advice on their career, the industry, and the corporate culture of a potential future workplace; not explicitly a job interview, it can help build a network that can lead to future opportunities.

This type of interview offers job seekers the chance to ask professionals about their daily routine and company culture and gain industry knowledge.

They are valuable to the job search because they can help you understand the realities of your desired job and industry and allow you to demonstrate your interest and initiative. Moreover, they can provide valuable networking opportunities and may lead to job offers in the future.

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Identify People to Connect With

The most important follow-up to the meeting should be a thank you email to the individual for their time and assistance. Some students write a handwritten note and send it via snail mail. Either is appropriate. Be sure to send a follow-up email promptly. Keep a record of the people you connect with since they are now part of your network, and you may want to contact them later for additional advice. 1 2 3 table of contents

Informational interviews can be conducted with people you know or with professionals referred to you through informal contacts such as faculty, family, friends, alumni, professional associations, and Career Center staff. LinkedIn and PeopleGrove, Vanderbilt’s online alumni database, are excellent tools for researching potential contacts for informational interviews.

Prepare for the Interview

Contact individuals at least one week ahead of time by email to schedule an appointment. The interview can be in person, on Zoom, or by phone, but the interviewee makes that decision. Ask the interviewee for about 20 minutes of their time and always clarify your objective − that you are seeking information rather than a job or internship. Prepare your questions ahead of time.

After the Interview

After the meeting, take some time to reflect. Ask yourself: Did I get answers to questions I have clarified? What new questions do I have? Am I more interested in this career field now that I’ve spoken with an industry professional? Why or why not? Do I need to talk with more people to obtain additional perspectives?

Identify Your Goals

Understand what you plan to accomplish through networking. This could be learning about a new industry, finding job opportunities, or seeking career advice. Clear goals will guide your networking efforts.

Research and Identify Key Contacts

Look for individuals or groups that align with your goals. These could be professionals in your desired industry, alumni from your school, or members of professional organizations. LinkedIn, industry events, and social media can be great resources.

Reach Out and Build Relationships

Initiate contact with the people you’ve identified. This could be through emails, social media messages, or networking events. Remember, networking is about building genuine relationships, so show interest in the other person and find common ground.

Maintain Your Network

Networking is a continuous process. Stay in touch with your contacts, update them on your progress, and be sure to offer help when they need it. This reciprocal relationship keeps your network strong and beneficial.

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Social Media Professional Associations Alumni Network

Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, X, and Instagram to follow companies you’re interested in and stay updated on their latest job postings.

Additionally, you can engage in industryrelated groups or discussions, network with professionals in the field, and showcase your skills and experiences, increasing your visibility to potential employers.

Leverage professional associations by attending events and webinars, which often feature industry leaders and are great networking opportunities.

You can also access exclusive job boards or career resources the associations offer and participate in discussion forums to gain insights into industry trends and open opportunities.

Utilize the Vanderbilt University alumni network to connect with fellow alumni working in your desired industry or company, opening doors to potential job opportunities.

You can also participate in alumni events, access the organization’s job posting platform, and leverage the mentorship programs often offered to gain industry insights and referrals. table of contents

By actively discovering opportunities and networking, you can uncover job openings not advertised, gain valuable industry insights, and make connections that could lead to future job opportunities. Additionally, it’s important to approach networking with a genuine interest in learning from others and building mutually beneficial relationships. Networking is a two-way street - it’s about building relationships, not just asking for favors.

Discovering opportunities and networking are crucial aspects of the job search process. They involve actively seeking new job opportunities and building relationships with professionals aligned with your interests. These activities can significantly broaden your job prospects and provide valuable insights into your chosen industry.

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EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

Experiential learning is acquiring knowledge and skills through direct, hands-on experiences. It can take various forms: internships, fieldwork, projects, or volunteering, where you apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. This learning approach fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability, enhancing your practical understanding of the field.

In the job search, experiential learning provides tangible evidence of your capabilities to potential employers. It enriches your resume and demonstrates your initiative, commitment, and ability to apply learned concepts, increasing your employability.

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EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

INTERNSHIPS JOB SHADOWING VOLUNTEERING table of contents

EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

An internship is a structured, often temporary, work program that provides individuals, usually students or recent graduates, with practical experience in their chosen field. It allows them to work under the guidance of industry professionals, thereby gaining hands-on experience and learning industry-specific skills.

Internships connect academic learning and professional employment, offering a chance to apply theoretical knowledge in realworld settings. They also provide opportunities to network with professionals and understand the work culture of an organization.

There are two primary sources of internship opportunities: published on websites and in print resources and those that are never made public. It is necessary to perform a balanced search that involves tapping your network and using online resources.

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EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

Sometimes, the initial plan for the summer might not go as expected. However, you can leverage your summer by identifying ways to gain experience beyond the ‘traditional’ summer internship.

Being intentional about layering different experiences throughout the summer, you can design an activity-filled break to include in a resume or cover letter and talk about in an interview.

Take advantage of your time and build a program that fits your interests and future career goals. As valuable as an internship, employers want to see how you show initiative and spend your time.

Job shadowing is an experiential learning opportunity where a student follows and observes a professional in their field of interest during a typical workday. This hands-on experience provides a real-world perspective of the day-to-day responsibilities and tasks associated with a particular job role. It allows individuals to gain insights into a profession, understand the work environment, and network with professionals. This exposure can help individuals make informed career decisions and enhance their employability.

CHECKOUTVANDYSHADOW!

VandyShadow is an immersive program designed exclusively for Vanderbilt sophomores like you. It's a chance to step out of the classroom and into the professional world, where you can:

Discover different industries and career paths.

Connect with accomplished mentors who are Vanderbilt alumni or parents. Develop the skills and knowledge needed for your dream career.

EXPERIENTIALLEARNING DISCOVER

Volunteering is offering your time and skills to assist a cause or organization without expecting monetary compensation. It provides the chance to gain practical experience, learn new skills, and make valuable connections in their field of interest.

Volunteering can also demonstrate a candidate’s commitment, initiative, and values to potential employers.

Learn more about volunteering and how you can get started through Vanderbilt University’s Office of Student Organizations, Leadership, and Service here!

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EXPERIENTIALLEARNING DISCOVER

Student research involves pursuing in-depth investigation or experimentation by students under the guidance of academic professionals.

It allows students to delve deeper into their interests, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

Participating in research projects can demonstrate a student’s initiative, dedication, and technical expertise to potential employers.

This hands-on experience, with the potential for professional publications or presentations, can significantly enhance a job seeker’s profile and competitiveness in the job market.

Check out Vanderbilt’s Undergraduate Research Website here!

EXPERIENTIALLEARNING DISCOVER

Treks are dynamic experiences that enable students to explore various industries and career paths by visiting companies and organizations. They provide opportunities for students to engage directly with employers and industry professionals, gain industry-specific knowledge, make informed career decisions, and establish valuable connections. Treks can be local, regional, national, or international, offering comprehensive and immersive learning experiences through company visits, networking sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and more! You can learn about all Immersive Experiences & Treks offered through the Career Center’s website.

SIGNATURECAREERTREKS

Vandy Meets the Street

Vandy Meets the Street is a premier networking and educational series for Vanderbilt Undergraduate Students interested in finance and connecting with alumni, employers, and parents. Attendees will learn about Wall Street trends and best practices from top-ranked industry professionals.

Vandy on Madison Avenue

Vandy on Madison Avenue was created by Vanderbilt alum Daniel Lovinger ’87 to introduce students to opportunities in media and communications. The VMA program includes a spring speaker series with industry experts and a summer trek in New York City. Participants range from first-year to graduate students and even Vanderbilt alumni.

EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

"Immersive experiences are transformative in linking classroom learning to real-world contexts. Whether through Career Treks, Case Competitions, Job Shadowing, or engaging in other dynamic activities, students gain invaluable insights and forge meaningful connections.

These experiential learning opportunities not only deepen their understanding of various fields and industry knowledge but also cultivate essential skills and open doors to future career pathways. Direct engagement with industry leaders and peers empowers students, propelling them toward career readiness and professional growth."

Destiny Rumble, Assistant Director of Immersive Experiences & Treks

Student Insight

“Hands-on experiences, such as internships, research projects, and volunteering, have provided me with practical skills and insights into various careers. It’s been a great way to experience what different jobs look like and envision my life after graduation. I believe that any hands-on experience is valuable, whether it directly relates to your current interests or not!”

-Stella Lee ‘26

Human & Organizational Development Computer Science Minor

“Try many things. Your first job isn't your forever job. Advocate for yourself and your worth.”

-Michael Wallace Assistant Director for Student Development Vanderbilt University

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EXPERIENTIALLEARNING

Acquiring knowledge and skills through hands-on experiences, experiential learning encompasses various forms like internships, academic projects, or volunteering. This approach allows you to apply classroom concepts to real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability while deepening your practical understanding of the subject.

Moreover, experiential learning offers the opportunity to explore potential long-term interests and preferences, serving as a guide in determining career aspirations.

Building a professional brand is crucial as it serves as your unique identity in the workforce, setting you apart in the competitive job market. It reflects your skills, experiences, values, and personality, influencing how employers perceive you. A strong professional brand can enhance credibility, increase visibility to relevant opportunities, and impact your career progression.

Additionally, a well-planned strategy provides a structured approach to job hunting, helping you focus on suitable opportunities that align with your career goals. It allows for efficient use of time and resources and aids in tracking progress and adjusting efforts as needed. Moreover, a strategic approach can help manage the stress and uncertainty associated with job searching, making the process more manageable and effective. table of contents

BRAND&STRATEGYDEVELOPMENT DISCOVER

A resume is a formal document a job applicant creates to itemize their qualifications for a position description. Typically, 1-2 pages, depending on where you are in your career. The most important aspect of a successful job search will often determine whether you will receive a call for an interview.

General resumes are a starting place, but we recommend presenting your information targeted to a particular job or industry. Some industries prefer information organized in a specific format, so research the job, company, or field before writing your resume.

Remember to reflect on all the tasks, projects, and responsibilities that were asked of you (and those that weren’t)!

Learn more about resumes and see some examples on the Career Center’s website!

Stop by our drop-in hours to get your questions answered and have your resume reviewed! You can find the schedule here.

AI Tip: Ask AI to help you enhance your bullet points in the format of Strong Action Verb, Context, and Result but make sure they fit your experience. Don’t copy and paste. table of contents

A cover letter is a personalized document complementing your resume when applying for a job.

It is an introduction to your professional background and tailored to the specific job you’re applying for.

The cover letter highlights your skills, experiences, and suitability for the role and gives the employer a snapshot of what you can bring to their organization.

It’s also an opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the job and how you see yourself contributing to the company.

A cover letter is your chance to make a positive first impression on a potential employer.

Having a built-out LinkedIn profile will allow you to:

Establish a robust online presence to enhance your brand image.

Conduct thorough research on companies and industries of interest.

Pursue internships and job opportunities for professional growth.

Engage with alumni and expand your networking connections.

Cultivate a diverse range of skills to bolster your expertise.

Participate in professional associations and communities for industry insights and networking opportunities.

We are happy to offer students a free course on how to get the most out of LinkedIn for their job/internship search!

All you have to do is scan the QR code and enroll using your Vanderbilt email address!

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When starting the application process, compile a list of your overall career goals. You can list your long- and short-term life goals, followed by what you value most. Determine and list your career goals

Share your experience, skills, and strengths. This will help you match your abilities with the requirements of the jobs you’re interested in. List your experience, skills, and strengths

Think about the companies that align with your career goals and values. Brainstorm ideal companies you want to work for

This could include updating your resume, writing cover letters, preparing for interviews, applying for jobs, following up on applications, and preparing for interviews. Build a to-do list for all parts of the job search

5. Keep track of job application deadlines, follow-up conversations, networking calls, etc. Organize the list of companies you have applied for or would like to

“The personal brand you build through a strong resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn page should speak to who you are, highlighting your unique experiences, passions, and strongest skills. It's important to show employers not only what sets you apart from other candidates but also what defines your individuality.”

-Rebecca Brown ‘25

Human & Organizational Development

Gender and Sexuality Studies

“Curating a professional identity is crucial in today’s job market. Building a successful resume and LinkedIn profile can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility. I’ve learned the importance of highlighting key achievements and tailoring my experiences to align with the roles I am pursuing.”

-Stella Lee ‘26

Human & Organizational Development

Computer Science Minor

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Establishing a professional brand is vital as it conveys your distinct identity in the job market, distinguishing you in a competitive environment. A robust professional brand can boost your credibility, expand your visibility to relevant prospects, and ultimately impact your career advancement.

Furthermore, a well-organized strategy offers a systematic job search, guiding you toward opportunities that align with your career objectives. Additionally, a strategic approach helps manage the stress and uncertainties associated with job hunting, making the process more streamlined and productive.

Vandy in Exploration Toolkit