Old Dominion University (ODU) offers an extensive selection of graduate programs through 13 colleges and schools, providing students with opportunities to pursue advanced degrees across a wide variety of academic disciplines. As an R1 research university, meaning that it has very high research activity, Old Dominion University provides graduate students with opportunities to engage in research, innovation, and scholarly work alongside experienced faculty. This research-focused environment helps students develop specialized knowledge and practical skills that prepare them for careers in academia, industry, government, and other professional fields.

Like many other colleges and universities, ODU has its own dedicated Center for Career & Leadership Development (CCLD) to provide students and alumni with resources to excel in job searches and professional development. The CCLD offers a variety of services, including career counseling, resume and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, job and internship search resources, career fairs, and networking opportunities. These services help students identify career paths that align with their academic backgrounds and professional goals while building the skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce successfully. By connecting students with employers and providing guidance throughout the career development process, the CCLD serves as an important resource for ODU students preparing for life after graduation.

To learn more about the Center for Career & Leadership Development, click here.

Another resource that is available for students, both local and international, is the Monarch Internship and Co-Op Office (MICO), which provides additional resources in regards to internship and work opportunities. Participating in internships is a great way for students to gain career experience before graduation and can apply the knowledge and skills they have developed in the classroom to real-world work environments while building their professional networks and gaining experience that can strengthen their resumes. For international students in particular, MICO can also serve as a helpful resource for understanding internship and employment opportunities while navigating the requirements associated with gaining professional experience in the United States.

To learn more about the Monarch Internship and Co-Op, click here.

Career Pathways is a program that offers developmental programs and certificates for graduate students who are interested in pursuing careers in academia or outside of academia. Workshops are available both in-person and online where students can gain knowledge related to these topics and prepare for the transition from graduate school into the workforce. By giving students opportunities to build transferable skills and expand their professional networks, Career Pathways helps graduate students become better prepared for a variety of career opportunities within and beyond academia.

To learn more about Career Pathways, click here

While I am satisfied in my current position and am not looking for new roles, the most relevant resources that I could use are the CCLD and Career Pathways. I would particularly benefit from networking opportunities, resume-improvement support, and career coaching to learn more about other industries I may be interested in pursuing in the future. I would also value learning about new resources, trends, and opportunities in the industry I currently work in. Even though I am not actively seeking a new position, these resources would help me continue developing professionally, expand my network, and stay informed about potential opportunities for long-term career growth.

These resources and my current coursework align well with my professional trajectory because I work in marketing for local government and want to keep building my skills and advancing in this field and understand my audience better. My coursework gives me the opportunity to strengthen my knowledge and develop skills I can apply directly to my current role, while resources such as the CCLD and Career Pathways can help me identify ways to keep growing in government marketing and better understand how my skills may transfer to other industries I am interested in.