Job Placement
Job placement is such a motivating factor to the success of that student. This is probably one of the first questions that a perspective student asks in the admissions process. If one looks at the overall "big picture" this is the final step and goal of their educational journey! The ability to provide a comprehensive employment skills training is a vital component. This is a huge step to prepare the student for their employment....and it begins NOW...don't wait until the last minute or even after graduation!
Lee,
Yes, the soft skills are key. Students can develop the entry level skills but if he or she is an unpleasant person those skills will not matter.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
In a recent in service day here the topic of employer desires came up. I was surprised to learn that actual technical skills were not as high a priority as soft skills. They listed as important integrity, focus, willingness, dedication and responsibility. They repeatedly said that they could teach the hard skills and actually preferred to do that. Soft skills was the major selling point. So I agree that fit is at least as important as skill.
William ,
Fit with a job and a company might be even more important than skill.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
It is important that the director place the student in a job/position which meshes with the students personality, ie, more intro/extroverted, and our director does that well.
John,
Why do you believe this?
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I am a firm believer if they graduate and don't have a job, they don't want a job...
Students need to know that there is a need for their skills out in the work force.
Leticia,
Setting up realistic career expectations from the beginning is important. Students may come in thinking about a position that might be the second or third job in a career. Do you see any connection between where students are placed and their academic performance? That might be worth reviewing.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
Students who are placed through our program do well. Some students feel that where they have been placed is beneath them and do not take it seriously. Our career services can only do so much, and I tell this to my students. I tell them on their first day of class to build a road map for their immediate future. I also have them start thinking about where what type of office they would like to work for. About half way through the program I have them begin looking for a place that would be willing to except new interns and be a possible hire. I feel if they take on some leadership for their future they do better and are more successful.
Michelle,
The career prep begins at enrollment. Students do come to us to start a career path.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
