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“What’s in Hogan 203?” Effectively Using Career Planning Resources

You’ve probably been encouraged to take advantage of college resources on many different occasions in your academic career. However, it is not always clear how or which programs are best suited for you.

In this installment of “What’s in Hogan 203?” we will reacquaint you with the services and resources offered virtually by the Career Planning site. The mentioned sites are definitely worth taking a look!

STEP 1: Log on to www.holycross.edu/careerplanning. Click “Online Resources”

  • First on the top right corner, you will find our “Self-Help Guides.” These packets will take you step-by-step through the process of developing your Resume, writing a Cover Letter and learning more skills to help you score your dream internship or job. This is the place to start learning how to develop your professional profile, while avoiding a major faux pas.

All of these guides are also offered in print inside the Career Planning Center- Hogan 203.

  • In the top left hand corner, we offer Powerpoints of our “Online Workshops.” These resources focus on more specific situations, such as the different types of interviews you may encounter. While the first section centers on more general advice, this is the place to look for tips when you’ve narrowed down the companies you’re applying for OR if you’ve already scored an interview.

Step 2: Crusader Connections

Before going through the “External Links” section, head over to Crusader Connections, where we post a TON of internship/job opportunities. To access these, sign in and  familiarize yourself with CRUSADER CONNECTIONS. Throughout your job search, Crusader Connections will be your best friend… if you know how to navigate it. For a full Crusader Connections tutorial, check out last year’s blog post.

Step 3: External Links

Now it’s time to tackle the bottom section of “External Links.” All of these links provide helpful information about potential career paths or current internship/job opportunities. Look confusing? We’ll break it down for you….

  • Still not sure where your career path is heading? (P.S. No one really does)
  1. Search by Major on this site.
  2. Search the Stats here
  3. Specific advice for Liberal Arts students: here
  4. Considering Abroad? Head to this site.
  • Ready to gain experience? Search for specific internships:
  1. Liberal Arts Career Network: LACN (Sign in via Crusader connections)
  2. Broaden your search: here
  • Know what career field you want to pursue? Look for specific jobs:
  1. General National Job Search (Sign on via Crusader Connections)
  2. Considering Non-profits? Check this site out.
  3. More jobs here!
  • Bonus: Interview & Career Fair Opportunities:
  1. LARC Interview Program & Career Fair: Check it out here!

**If accessing any of the above links off campus, sign on to Crusader Connections & go to “Career Resources” box**

Now it’s time to use these resources &  start your Career Search!

#NoExcuses

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Alumni Guest Post: Will Brown ’11

We are excited to announce that our Alumni Guest Post series is back for the 2012-2013 academic year!

First up: Will Brown ’11 will be sharing his experiences as a Physics teacher with Teach For America!

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Will Brown ’11

When I look back at my four years at Holy Cross, many things stand out to me: long hours in class and science labs, long hours studying in Dinand, long hours working at Kimball, and long weekend nights with friends. I enjoyed all of those things, but the one aspect of Holy Cross that truly became a part of me was the idea of being “Men and Women for (and with) Others.” I took advantage of every opportunity I had to serve alongside the marginalized and oppressed. I was one of those people who fell in love with the spring break immersion program. I went to New Orleans my freshman year because I wanted to help others. I quickly learned, however, that the beauty of a life of service is not what you can do for others, but what you can do together. The individuals that I met, both from Holy Cross and the local communities, convinced me to broaden my perspective and go out into the world.

Fast forward a few years, and I am now a second-year Teach for America corps member serving as a physics teacher San Benito High School in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, the area of land alongside the Mexican border. As someone who was a biology major in the health professions program, I often get asked, “Why Teach for America? Why not go to med school?” Medical school is still my target destination, but I did not feel ready at that time to jump in.  Instead, I opted for a short break from school and settled on joining one of the many service organizations that are available (Peace Corps, JVC, Americorps, etc.). Teach for America recruits high-performing college graduates with strong leadership qualities to teach in high-needs schools throughout the country. We go through an alternative teacher certification program and undertake continuous professional development throughout our two-year commitment. This makes it an excellent option for those individuals (like me) who realized very late that they have a passion for teaching, and also those individuals who would like a strong support system as they begin their teaching careers. Although it is not faith-based like the immersion trips, TFA appealed to me because it allowed me to work daily with students who have ambitious hopes and dreams for their futures, but who have also been written off by many as incapable of reaching those goals or, worse, not worth the effort.

The past year and a half has been a constant challenge. The old joke that “those who can’t do, teach” has certainly been proven false. I have worked harder during the past year and a half than I ever did before. My school day runs from 7:45 to 4:16, and then I stay at school most afternoons grading, preparing for future lessons, or organizing extracurricular activities. During my first year I taught three 90-minute chemistry classes and one remedial class for students who needed to pass the state exam. This year I am teaching physics. I find myself constantly relearning things I have forgotten since college. Most nights I am exhausted, and just like at Holy Cross I cannot wait for each weekend to come around so I can relax a bit. I love taking the time to go out to my students’ football games (yes, it really is like Friday Night Lights) or volleyball games and see them excel in something that they love. It is also a fun and easy opportunity to meet students’ parents and influencers.

All of the time and effort is worth it, though, when you see the fruits of you and your students’ shared labor: having Juan look up at you from a problem set and say he finally understands; seeing Mel’s face light up in wonder and amazement when a science experiment works like magic; or seeing a student who has failed multiple times in the past finally rise up and succeed. Those simple, joyous moments remind me why I chose teaching, why I chose Teach for America.

If you are interested in applying to Teach for America, make sure to get in touch with one of the recruiters from the Boston office. TFA works in 46 different rural and urban regions throughout the country from Boston to Hawaii and everywhere in-between. Check out the website to see detailed information about each of the regions. You can make yourself a more attractive applicant by taking on leadership positions on campus and developing your organizational skills, as these are two of the organization’s focal points when looking at applicants. Also, speak to people who are currently teaching in the public school system: there are many things I was unaware of that happen behind-the-scenes. There is a lot more to school than just teaching classes.

I want to leave you with my greatest moment in the classroom so far. One of

Will & Myriah

my students from last year, Myriah, had not passed the state science exam since she was in 8th grade. As a senior, she needed to pass that test to graduate. She was in two science classes with me, for a total of 135 minutes each day, all year long. Myriah had her confidence beaten down, but we knew that she could do it. One month before graduation, on her last chance, she finally succeeded in passing the science exam. She was going to walk across the stage and graduate with her class! I remember many things about that night: My mom and sister were at a Brad Paisley concert, and Johan Santana threw the Mets first no-hitter, but I will always remember the ear-to-ear smile on Myriah’s face as she lined up to walk across the stage. Tears welled up in my eyes as a student sitting near me said, “I didn’t think Myriah was going to graduate.” The tears began to run as I responded, “Well, she did.” In that moment, I knew that I was where I needed to be. I knew that joining Teach for America was the right choice for me.

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Connect with this story?

Learn more about Teach For America here.
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Maximize your Fall Break

FALL BREAK is finally upon us! While we would never dream of undermining the importance of sleeping, watching re-runs of Law & Order SVU and mulling over this year’s Halloween costume options, we know Fall Break also provides the opportunity to maximize your internship & career search. Here are some quick tips for you to tackle over break:

  • Research: Whether you are applying for an internship or full-time position, researching companies before you apply is essential. Many corporate websites feature a “Career” section, so take a look at what kind of positions are available and what qualifications they require. Also, check out our very own Crusader Connections to see what positions are available to you. (We post A LOT of jobs/internships for you!)
  • It’s October, Buy a Costume: No we don’t mean for Halloween…yet… Rather, invest in some staple business outfits so you are ready to roll for upcoming interviews or networking events.
  • Seniors –Apply! Those words may have left a bad taste in your mouth that even apple cider can’t fix, but it’s finally time to start applying. Many employers (especially in finance or other companies with training programs) set their deadlines in early October! So keep searching and sending out your resumes & cover letters! P.S. You’ve got this.
  • Polish: One can never proofread their resume too many times. Bonus: If you’ve had prior professional experience, develop a portfolio of work you’ve done to bring to interviews.

…..Alright, break open the bag of Candy Corn. You deserve it.
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Standing out in the Crowd: The Art of Networking

When asked the best way for someone to break into a given career, the typical response is “It’s all about who you know.”

Knowing people is undoubtedly central to success. Only one problem: most of us are not sitting at home with a comprehensive list of close friends who are high up execs in the particular career field we are pursuing. So what to do? Network. Network. Network. Networking means reaching out to people you already know AND forming new connections with various professionals.

One first (very simple) step in networking is developing a professional online presence through LinkedIn. This social media platform provides a space for you to list your experience/accomplishments and serves as a point of reference for potential employers. In addition, as you make online connections your visibility increases. Essentially, this lays the ground work for networking.

While a virtual presence is pivotal, the bread and butter of networking remains in-person interactions. Career Fairs mark one of the best platforms for college students to connect with professionals in-person, as they attract a variety of professionals who are there to engage in dialogues with undergrads.

So, how do you stand out in a sea of college students at Career Fairs?

  • Do your Research: Before the fair, look at the list of companies who will be represented. Choose a few companies that peak your interest and research them online.
  • Bring Materials: Have business cards printed and bring them. This is a great way to stand out after the event ends. Also have copies of your resume handy, in case an employer asks.

Also, check out GradtoGreat.com’s “15 Ways to Make a Good Impression at Formal Events” for more tips!

Upcoming Career Fairs:

  • Holy Cross Fall Career Fair: Wednesday, September 26th, 12-3pm in Hogan Ballroom (For a list of employers, check here)
  • Liberal Arts Recruiting Connection: Friday, November 2nd 1-4pm in the Empire Ballroom at the Courtyard by Marriott Boston Tremont Hotel (For more info, check here)

Let the networking begin….

Source: Picture
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“What’s in Hogan 203?”: Meet the Career Counselors

Saving your career, one resume at a time.


Although you might walk by the Career Planning Center every day on your way to class or Cool Beans, do you really know “What’s in Hogan 203?” Throughout this semester, the Holy Cross Career Planning blog will feature a What’s in Hogan 203 post where you can learn more about the inner workings of your on-campus career resource center.

To kick off the series, we’re going to officially introduce (or re-introduce) you to our fabulous Career counselors. As your key career resources on campus, these are the people you want to know!

  • Amy Murphy:

I have been assisting Holy Cross students identify their career interests and objectives and secure jobs and internships for over 15 years.  I am proud to say, I have held nearly every job in Career Planning: from career counseling, to employer relations to SIP.  Today, I work primarily with the Career Planning and SIP staff to make sure we are providing YOU everything we can to assist you identify and clarify your career interests and objectives and then secure internships and full time employment.  My strongest advice is to connect with Career Planning early in your time at Holy Cross and have a conversation about your interests, abilities and values.  We can help you see the connections between those and the world of work – connections you may never have thought possible!  My second piece of advice: It is never too late to connect with Career Planning!  Stop on by Hogan 203 today!


  • Maura Hume:

My name is Maura Hume, HC Class of 2007, and I’m the Associate Director of Employer Relations.  I run the Employer Relations program, which comprises on-campus recruiting, full-time job postings and all non-SIP internships.  I work very closely with employers and alumni looking to recruit HC students, as well as Seniors looking to prepare for their life after HC.  I love to be outside- hiking, skiing, whatever and this summer I adopted a new spaniel puppy named Lilly, who now completely dictates my life.  If you have career questions, want to see puppy pictures or are curious to study a map of Everest, then stop by the office!


  • Pam Ahearn:

I am starting my 11th academic year with the Summer Internship Program at Holy Cross.  My passions are helping students make connections between their academic pursuits and the world of work, and connecting students with Holy Cross alumni. Although not a graduate of Holy Cross, I have been known to bleed purple!


  • Christine Staub:

As Associate Director of the Summer Internship Program, I enjoy spending every waking minute with SIP students (ok, maybe just all the minutes during the work week).  My background in Human Resources and Recruiting enables me to help students market their skills to potential employers.  Whether working on resumes, cover letters, interview skills or networking strategies, I see every appointment as an opportunity to help students recognize and articulate just how much they have to offer.


  • Megan Chester:

I am the Assistant Director/Career Counseling working with students in all phases of the career development process.  Through one-one-one meetings and workshops, I help students identify choice of major and career paths. In addition, I prepare students for professional opportunities by connecting them with resources for internship/job searching and networking.  Also, I oversee the Sophomore Career Advising program and acts as liaison to young alumni.


  • Jonathan Hurt:

As the Assistant Director of Programming and Resources in the HC Career Planning Center, I serve as the program manager for the Alumni Job Shadowing Program, organize career related programs and career panels, and assist in evaluating online resources.  I served as a State Department Intern in 2010 and work extensively to help students who are interested in working for the federal government.  I am a huge sports fan whose favorite teams include Arsenal FC, San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Bulls, and Atlanta Braves.


  • Andrea Eastman:

I am beginning my 6th academic year with Career Planning and the Summer Internship Program (SIP).  I work with students of all years including alumni and those admitted into SIP.  In addition, I encourage students to discover their true interests, values, and strengths and helps find a fit for these characteristics in the corporate and/or nonprofit arenas.  Although I am a graduate of Brown University, I would have been a *very* happy camper at Holy Cross!

To set up an appointment with one of our Career Counselor, stop by Hogan 203 or give us a call at 508-793-3880. There are also Drop-in hours every day from 1-4pm and Virtual Drop-ins Mondays from 7-9pm via Crusader Connections.

Happy Career hunting, Holy Cross!
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Setting yourself up for Success: Class by Class Career Advice

WELCOME BACK TO HOLY CROSS!

Although most of us are still busy planning Fall around our syllabi or re-adjusting to the arduous trek up and down Mt. St. James every day, it is never too early to start thinking about Career Planning!

  • FRESHMEN: Get involved!

Welcome to your first semester on the Hill! As a first year student, you truly have a “fresh” start and endless opportunities to pique new interests and learn more about yourself. Although concretely setting up your “career path” may seem aggressive for your first semester, there are several ‘second nature’ things you can do to set yourself up for a bright career at HC and beyond.

1.)  Get involved on campus: Join 2  or more clubs or organizations. Getting involved helps to expand your interests, while introducing you to a new network of peers. Added Bonus: Campus activities are a great resume booster!

2.)  Take interesting classes: Before second semester enrollment, take the time to find classes that really speak to you. Being interested in the material helps you stay engaged and will eventually direct you towards a major if you are undecided.

  • SOPHOMORES: Focus in!

Sophomore year is the time to hone in your skills and piece together your achievements.

1.) Create your Resume: Now is the time to either create or refine your resume, as you start to build your professional profile. If you need help perfecting your resume, make an appointment to meet with one our Career Counselors!

2.) Apply to SIP: This semester presents your first opportunity to apply to HC’s Summer Internship Program. Although this program is highly competitive, the application process marks a great way to practice building your resume, cover letter and interview skills.

  • JUNIORS: Start your search!

Welcome to the Internship year of college! It’s time to start searching and applying for internships that appeal you.

1.)  Apply to SIP: The Summer Internship Program gives qualified students a helpful “foot in the door” to many amazing internships by connecting HC students with established alums.

2.)  Search Early: Start browsing different companies’ websites for internship opportunities. Many companies set their internship deadlines in the fall, so have your updated resumes and cover letters ready to go!

  • SENIORS: Network, Network, Network!

As daunting as it might seem, senior year is the inevitable prelude to the notorious “real world.” Although denial is one way to approach this problem, the better way is to set your self up for success through networking.

1.)  Stay in Touch: If you had an internship or job this summer, stay in touch with the people you met! Maintaining a dialogue keeps you fresh in their minds and helps for recommendations later down the road.

2.)  Reach Out: Use the Career Advisors Network to reach out to alums in career fields you may pursue. (http://bit.ly/gG5PFM) Also, keep an eye out for an invitation from the Alumni office to join the Alumni Online Community where you can search for additional contacts. Remember, reaching out means learning more about specific jobs or companies, not blatantly asking for jobs!

3.)  Network in-person: Use events like the Holy Cross Career Fair (September 25th) to meet new contacts and demonstrate your professionalism. Extra Edge: Have business cards printed and give them to professionals you talk with!

Have questions or want help with these quick tips? Come to Career Planning in Hogan 203 for Drop-in hours or set up an appointment to meet with one of our amazing Career Counselors!

In addition, Career Counselors will be available to answer any quick career questions during Virtual Drop-in Hours, which start up Monday, September 17th!