Career Services: Commitment to student success

As Ohio University continues to evolve and innovate to better serve our Bobcats, the recent reorganization of key services underscores OHIO’s commitment to student success.

The transition of Career Services to the Division of Student Affairs marks a strategic move to integrate student support services more effectively. This alignment will foster closer collaboration between Career Services and other division departments, ensuring that students receive the comprehensive support they need to succeed both during and after their time at Ohio University.

“Our goal has always been to provide students with the resources and guidance they need to thrive in their academic and career pursuits,” said Aaron Sturgill, executive director of career readiness. “However, this reorganization allows us to work even more closely with our colleagues in Student Affairs to create a holistic support system for our students.” 

Core services to empower student success 

Career Services will continue to offer programs and personalized support to help students achieve their career goals.  

One-on-One Career Coaching: Career coaches are available to meet with students individually, offering personalized guidance on career exploration, job search strategies, preparing for interviews, professional development, and more. Students can schedule appointments on Handshake or drop-in without an appointment to Baker 507 Monday through Friday from 1-5 p.m.

Career Closet:The Career Closet provides students with business professional and business casual clothes for interviews, career fairs, formal events or any career-related function, both on and off campus. Students can visit the Career Closet Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (no appointment necessary). 

Career Workshops: The Career Services team offers a variety of workshops designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market. Topics include resume building, networking, job search strategies, and more. Faculty, staff, and student organizations can request workshops. 

Career Events: Career Services will host several career events this fall, including the bi-annual Career and Internship Fair.

“These events provide students with opportunities to connect with potential employers, explore internships, and begin their journey toward post-graduation success,” said Holly Seckinger, executive director for employer engagement. 

‘We're Listening’ meetings: Engaging with campus partners 

To ensure that Career Services is fully aligned with the needs of the campus community, a series of "We're Listening" meetings will be launched this fall with faculty and staff across Ohio University. These sessions are designed to gather valuable insights into your past experiences with Career Services, understand your current needs, and explore how Career Services can collaborate more effectively moving forward.

Through these conversations, the goal is to identify both strengths and areas for improvement in career services and employer engagement. Stakeholder feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the strategic planning for the unit's continued development within the Division of Student Affairs.

“By engaging directly with our campus partners, we are committed to creating a more responsive and supportive Career Services that meets the diverse needs of our students and faculty,” said Sturgill said. 

The conversations will be held on the following days:

• Sept. 25, 2024, 1:30–2:30 p.m. (in-person), Baker 366 Leadership Center 
• Oct. 8, 2024, 10-11 a.m. (in-person), Baker 366 Leadership Center 
• Oct. 25, 2024, 9:30–10:30 a.m. (virtual), Join via Teams

Faculty and staff are encouraged to refer students to Career Services and participate in career events and workshops.

“Together, we can ensure that every Ohio University student has the tools and opportunities to achieve their full potential,” Seckinger said.

For more information on services or to discuss how you can partner with Career Services to support your students, visit www.ohio.edu/career or contact the office at career@ohio.edu .