The CSI Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) recently hosted an event to give students more of an edge when they enter the job market. “Picture Perfect Careers,” which was held in the Building 1A Atrium, gave students recruiter feedback on their introductory, or elevator, pitches; put them in touch with Center career specialists, who coached them in how to approach potential employers, hone their résumés, and overcome interview anxiety; provided them with free headshots, and offered them a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card.

Participating employers included the FBI, New York Life, State Farm, Enterprise, COOP Careers, and A Friendly Face.

Explaining how the event came about, CCPD Career Specialist Emily Cummings, who coordinated the event, said, “We aimed to establish an event where students could both learn career skills and network effectively. The employers who participated were generous with their time, offering valuable feedback to students on their elevator pitch, thereby helping students in building their career-readiness skills. This was the first event the CCPD has held highlighting feedback from employers but we pulled inspiration from successful events in the past.” The response to “Picture Perfect Careers” from the roughly 70 student participants was extremely positive.

Center staff members were also enthusiastic about the effectiveness of the event as they’re always seeking to develop new and engaging events. In fact, Cummings said that “Picture Perfect Career” may very well become a Center staple.

Summing up what events like this mean to staff at the Center, Cummings notes, “The staff at the Center for Career and Professional Development are deeply passionate about helping students thrive in their careers. Many students are unaware of the necessary steps to take in college to become competitive candidates in their job search. The CCPD staff guides students through this process. We offer services such as résumé and cover letter review, internship searches, guidance in career-related decisions and interviewing prep. In addition to addressing individual needs, we provide opportunities for students to connect with employers and enhance essential professional skills at events like this one.”

For more information, contact the Center for Career and Professional Development at 718.982.2300 or visit their Website.

By Terry Mares