Career Services Workshops focus on Moving from Student to Professional

Southern Miss Career Services is kicking off the spring semester by introducing “Backpack to Briefcase,” a series of new workshops aiming to assist students in the transition from college student to workplace professional.

“It's important that students start preparing for the job search early on, rather than a month or two before graduation,” said Career Services director Rusty Anderson. “These workshops will help students of all majors and classifications begin that transition, so when the time comes they'll be more confident and prepared to approach employers.”

The series will consist of three events, each focusing on a different aspect of the job search, such as how to network or dress professionally. Each workshop will feature speakers from outside of the university to give more of a “real-world” perspective.

Career Services will begin the new series with a social media workshop, titled “Facebooking Your Future,” on Tuesday, Feb. 1, at 5:00 p.m. in Union Room B. The one-hour event will show the importance of using Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to make a polished first impression with professionals.

“Students can use these networks to build their image and credibility before they ever graduate or start looking for a job,” Anderson said. “They are on these websites every day interacting with friends; why not use them at the same time to connect to potential employers prior to graduation?”

Samantha McCain of the American Red Cross and Thomas Broadus of Mississippi Public Broadcasting will serve as speakers for the first event. Both are social media experts and Southern Miss alumni.

The workshops will occur once every month during the spring semester and are open to students of all majors and classifications. March's event, titled “Speed Networking” will help students sharpen their interview and networking skills, while April's event will focus on professional dress in the workplace.

Career Services, in conjunction with University of Southern Mississippi faculty and staff, is a team of professionals committed to providing resources, services and opportunities for students, alumni and employers in academic, job related and career endeavors. The office is located in 125 McLemore Hall. For more information, please visit www.usm.edu/cs or call 601.266.4253.