Preparing for Life After College

As your student navigates their college journey, it’s never too early to start thinking about life after graduation. The day they receive their diploma will arrive sooner than you think, and ensuring they are prepared for the workforce is a top priority. Fortunately, NC State offers a variety of resources to help students transition smoothly into their careers. Supporting your student during their college years is vital, but it’s equally important to discuss their post-graduation plans. Initiating these conversations shows that you care about their future and are there to support them every step of the way. Ask about their aspirations, potential career paths, and any concerns they might have about entering the job market. 

Encourage your student to build a strong relationship with their academic advisor. Advisors can provide invaluable guidance on course selection, career options, and networking opportunities. If your student isn’t sure who their advisor is, they can easily find this information by logging into their MyPack portal under Planning and Enrollment. For those seeking on-campus jobs or internships, ePack is an excellent resource. Students can upload their resumes, input details about their major, and specify the types of opportunities they’re interested in. ePack will match them with a variety of job and internship options. Remind your student to keep their resume updated with new experiences and skills, as this will significantly enhance their job search.

Finally, in today’s digital world, having a professional presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn is essential. If your students haven’t yet taken a professional headshot, they’re in luck! NC State offers free headshots through a convenient photobooth. No appointment is necessary—students can stop by during designated hours to get their photos taken. 

By taking advantage of these resources and having open conversations about their future, your student will be well-equipped to embark on their post-college journey with confidence.

Thomas Radford,

Parent Ally