How Working at Career Development has Helped Our Career Readiness

Written by Olivia Harris, Student Assistant for Student Outreach

The Student Assistant team at the Office of Career Development has gained invaluable experiences that have significantly contributed to their career readiness. In a recent interview conducted by Olivia Harris, the Student Assistant for Student Outreach, she delves into how working in this dynamic environment has shaped her professional skills and growth. Through conversations with her fellow Student Assistants, Olivia provides unique insights into how their roles have helped them build critical abilities such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving—skills that are essential as they prepare for their future careers. The article explores how each team member's journey reflects the broader impact of career-focused student employment on personal and professional development.

Hannah Fischer: Building Skills in Communication and Event Management

Working at the Office of Career Development has been transformative for Hannah Fischer, who serves as a student assistant for employer engagement. In her role, Hannah has refined her ability to craft standout resumes and cover letters, essential tools that she knows will boost her career opportunities. Additionally, she's developed strong communication skills, allowing her to engage effectively with employers—a skill that will be crucial as she steps into the professional world.

Beyond communication, Hannah has learned the intricacies of planning and executing on-campus events. "Organizing these events has not only honed my organizational skills," she shares, "but has given me firsthand experience in professional project management." Hannah attributes much of her success to the mentorship she received from Hannah Hepler and Josh Zeigler, who provided invaluable guidance and support. "Their mentorship has shaped me in ways that extend beyond just professional skills. I feel more confident as a student, a professional, and an individual," she reflects gratefully.

Spencer Jenkins: Developing Confidence and Office Skills

For Spencer Jenkins, Career Development has been instrumental in building his self-confidence and awareness in the job search process. Working in the office has provided him with an insider’s view on what it takes to find and secure meaningful job opportunities, making him feel more prepared as he looks toward the future.

Spencer has also grown in the day-to-day skills that come with working in a professional environment. "I've learned how to communicate my needs clearly and effectively and how to approach my supervisors with questions," he explains. This experience has not only boosted his confidence but also equipped him with essential skills he’ll carry into any future role. "Career Development taught me how to be both proactive and self-sufficient," Spencer adds, "and I know these skills will serve me well in any future office setting."

Olivia Harris: Confidence Building and Gaining Outreach Experience

Working in Career Development keeps me closely connected to the application process and researching internships. My career path has largely been shaped by this process, and staying immersed in it as a student has helped me feel less intimidated by writing cover letters, editing my resume, completing interviews, and engaging in conversations with my supervisor.

My position has also been tailored to my skills and experiences. When I received my first federal internship, I initially lacked experience working directly with constituents. However, my work in the Office of Career Development—answering student questions and creating student-facing content and events—had already helped me develop strong outreach skills. While constituent work varies with each experience, every instance of answering questions and providing guidance prepared me for the responsibilities I now handle in my internship.

Hannah Su Hepler: Guiding Student Assistants

The Office of Career Development at Chatham University offers Student Assistants a space to grow professionally and personally under the thoughtful leadership of its director, Hannah.

“My role as director comes into play with taking the experiences I’ve lived through and breaking them down in ways that are relatable and helpful for student workers,” she explained. “I tailor those experiences to what might be most relevant to their career readiness or areas they want to learn about.”

Hannah emphasizes creating a supportive environment that equips students for future success. “I want my student assistants to feel confident that they belong in any professional space they enter. You didn’t luck out to get there—you have the skills and talent that earned you a place at the table.”

Her onboarding process builds foundational skills while creating opportunities aligned with individual goals. “I design the process to build confidence in handling daily tasks and tailor additional opportunities to their interests,” she said.

Ultimately, Hannah aims to leave a lasting impact. “I strive to give students such a strong foundation that they carry it with them long after they leave. Knowing I’ve helped them feel empowered and capable in their future workplaces is incredibly rewarding.”