Gateway Career Tracks program enables students to get a glimpse into their intended careers
By Madeline Marriott ’24
Access full, original article here: https://news.lafayette.edu/2024/02/05/jump-starting-careers/.
For some Lafayette students, there’s no better time than winter break to explore industries, connect with alumni, and for some, solidify their future career plans. Throughout the January interim, dozens of motivated Pards connected with alumni in a variety of industries through Gateway Career Center’s Career Tracks program.
The program, which gives students the opportunity to learn about the daily lives of those working in their industry of choice, included over 120 alumni hosts and 150 students. Aside from the New York-based finance track, the programs take place virtually, eliminating barriers to joining for students of all backgrounds and locations.
“Lafayette’s alumni network is so ready and willing to support students with advice, mentorship, and when possible, support in their search for internships and careers,” says Josh Walker, associate director of employer relations and outreach. “Building a network of Lafayette alumni connections is a vital step in a student’s undergraduate experience that has benefits well beyond seeking career guidance. By engaging with alumni early and often, students can hear their stories and learn lessons from folks who have been in their shoes before.“
“Our hope for students is that they have an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of what type of career they really want as they are gaining insight into the reality of what a job is and what it requires,” says Holly Akers, associate director of employer relations and outreach. “We also hope that our students learn about the culture and expectations within an industry as well as gain professional etiquette skills through exposure to our alumni.”
The program has run successfully for several years, providing long-term and fruitful connections for students.
“Students have consistently had positive experiences, and they are very appreciative of meeting our alumni,” Akers says. “Students are required to write thank-you notes to our alumni, and throughout the notes we see time and time again that this experience sparks a deeper interest in a career within an industry or organization. Many students establish alumni connections that result in realized internships and entry-level career starts.”
It takes the interest and dedication of many volunteers to ensure these experiences are successful for students.
