Welcome, Wildcat Families!
At Central Washington University, we know that parents and support systems play a key role in their student’s success. Career Services is here to help students explore career options, gain valuable experience, and confidently enter the workforce or graduate school. This guide provides an overview of how we support students and how you can encourage them to make the most of these resources.
How Career Services Supports Your Student:
• Career advisors help students explore majors, career paths, and industries that align with their interests and strengths.
• Assessments and career counseling are available to guide students who are undecided or considering multiple options.
• Career Services connects students with employers through Handshake, our online job board and app, where they can find internships, part-time jobs, and full-time positions.
• We host career fairs, employer networking events, and on-campus recruitment to help students gain hands-on experience.
• Students can schedule one-on-one resume and cover letter reviews to craft strong application materials.
• Mock interviews help students build confidence and improve their responses for job and internship interviews.
• Career fairs connect students with employers looking to hire interns and full-time employees.
• We provide networking opportunities with alumni and industry professionals to help students build professional connections.
• Workshops and coaching sessions help students develop key professional skills such as communication, leadership, and time management.
• Students can gain experiential learning through internships, job shadowing, and volunteer opportunities.
• For students considering graduate school, Career Services provides assistance with applications, personal statements, and test preparation.
How you can support your student
✔ Encourage Early Engagement: Many students wait until their senior year to visit Career Services, but we recommend they start as early as their first year to explore options and build a strong foundation.
✔ Discuss Career Goals & Plans: Ask your student about their interests, experiences, and what careers they’re considering. Encourage them to seek guidance from Career Services to clarify their goals.
✔ Promote Internship & Work Experience: Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work provide valuable experience. Encourage your student to explore these opportunities early.
✔ Recommend Career Services Resources: Remind your student that they have access to a virtual career center, career fairs, professional clothing closet, networking events, and professional development workshops—all designed to help them succeed.
✔ Be a Supportive Sounding Board: Career exploration can be overwhelming. Be a source of encouragement, helping your student stay motivated and open to different paths.
✔ Stay Connected: We offer resources for parents to stay informed about career services, events, and job market trends. See below for linked resources and feel free to explore our virtual career center!
Check out the check point list for career development.
This list is an excellent starting point for students looking to enhance their readiness and success in preparing for their future careers.
