According to Michael Roth, author of “Reducing the Fear of Life After College,” concerns about college graduate’s preparation for the work world has been a fear for years. He explained that college students go into a frenzy when they have difficulties finding jobs.
Additionally, there are many questions that are presented on the topic of career life after college, such as: “What if I can’t find a job that coincides with my major?,” “What if I must travel a long distance to get to work?,” and What information should my employer know about me?
However, there must be a way that these questions can be addressed before students graduate. Jake Gilmour, an alumnus and a current graduate assistant at University Campus along with Miss Nancy Cheek, Assistant Director of Career Services have introduced current students and alumni of St. Leo to a career application known as “Handshake”.
According to Gilmour, the Handshake app seeks to enhance career development by ensuring students are business ready, professionally branding themselves and showcasing their accolades. Additionally, Gilmour added that the app aims to initiate networking between employers and individuals with similar career goals.
Handshake gives insight on upcoming career events to allow students to book their calendars for such events. Credit: Keva Lockhart
Further to this, it can be tedious when searching for employment areas for an individuals’ interest. That said, Handshake has a location feature that will search for employment for students in the areas of their choice.
If you have been hesitant to using Handshake fear not, jobs are not limited, Gilmour added that there are approximately 1,000 jobs posted on the Handshake app.
As Handshake is a new and growing application, Gilmour and Cheek have implemented a campaign known as “Road to Completion.”
Gilmour explained since Handshake is a new tool, most students should be aware of the helpful features it has to offer. He advises that starting from Freshman year, students should begin making profiles and professionally branding themselves to employers.
Gilmour continued, “The road to completion campaign has been presented to numerous SLU 101 classes and aims to encourage students to begin focusing on career planning.” He added that prizes are involved each time they make a presentation to a SLU 101 classes, to increase buy in with student involvement. The top 3 students that fully completes their Handshake profile will be awarded a Chick-fil-a sandwich, courtesy of career services.
The app consists of a Q&A section that can benefit students who have numerous questions concerning the app. Credit: Keva Lockhart
As it relates to expanding students’ knowledge about Handshake, Gilmour said that the app will feature success stories. They would visit classes and present the “Road to completion” campaign, and they will be present at career fairs held by the St. Leo community.
Jouse Audige, a junior and accounting major has found the Handshake app as a useful tool to come in contact with the working world. Jouse added that he would check his profile at least twice a week and would receive notifications from a company that has viewed his profile. Jouse also expressed that Handshake gives him the opportunity to upload his resume and transcripts to be sent to prospective employers.
Another student that has found the Handshake app to be a useful tool is Lucretia Johnson. Johnson an online student from the Bahamas, enrolled in the online MBA in Healthcare Management, stated that she decided to sign up for the Handshake application because it was a platform that would allow her to have access to various job, opportunities, and internships.
Johnson said that she was grateful she signed up for the Handshake app because she was given great career opportunities for the future. Additionally, Johnson is hopeful to land a job that would be the best fit for her while accomplishing professional growth.
The Handshake app is a growing app that has numerous benefits for University students that are seeking career opportunities, and a platform that will enable them to professionally brand themselves for the working world.
