From Admission to Graduation: Supporting Career Readiness for All Students
When I reflect on my college experience as a Pell Grant recipient, I am reminded of both the opportunities I gained and the challenges I faced. I was fortunate to attend a university that opened many doors, but navigating those opportunities—from internships to career paths—was a different story. Without a robust support system, it was easy to feel lost and not know how or where to go for help (or even what kind of help I needed).
This reality is reflected in data from the University of Texas at Austin, where around 75% of students graduate within four years. However, this rate drops to 66% for first-generation students and 67.5% for those eligible for Pell Grants. These statistics highlight a critical gap: students from underrepresented backgrounds (both racial and socioeconomic) often face unique hurdles that can hinder their academic and career success. Read more about UT Austin’s auto-admit program and its impact here.
While getting students into college is an important milestone, it’s not the end of the story. Universities must do more to support students once they arrive on campus, ensuring they have the tools and resources to thrive academically and professionally. Career readiness programs play a vital role in closing this gap. Here are three ways universities can better support students during their college journey:
1. Build Structured Internship Pathways
Internships are one of the most effective ways for students to gain real-world experience and explore career paths. However, not all students know how to access these opportunities. Universities can:
Partner with local businesses and organizations to create paid internships tailored to students’ fields of study.
Offer workshops and mentorship programs that teach students how to find and secure internships.
Develop programs specifically aimed at underrepresented students, addressing barriers like unpaid internships or lack of professional networks.
2. Offer Tailored Career Development Programs
Generic career services are not enough to address the diverse needs of today’s students. Universities should:
Provide one-on-one career counseling focused on translating academic achievements into job market skills.
Host workshops on resume building, networking, and interview preparation, designed to empower students who may not have prior exposure to these processes.
Create targeted programming for first-generation students and financial aid recipients, ensuring they feel equipped to navigate the job market.
3. Develop Peer and Alumni Networks
Connections matter, and universities have an incredible resource in their alumni. By fostering relationships between students and alumni, universities can:
Establish mentorship programs where alumni guide students through their career journeys.
Organize networking events that connect students with professionals in their desired industries.
Build platforms where students can easily reach out to alumni for advice and support.
Why This Matters
Career readiness isn’t just about helping students find jobs after graduation; it’s about giving them the confidence and tools to succeed in life. For students from underrepresented backgrounds, these programs can be transformative. They ensure that every student, regardless of their racial or socioeconomic status, has an equal opportunity to thrive.
As someone who has experienced the power of a good education and the challenges that come with navigating career readiness, I’m passionate about helping universities bridge these gaps. At Latch Career Services, I aim to create programs that support students throughout their journey, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed.
Together, we can make career readiness a priority, ensuring that all students have the support they need to achieve their goals.