Grace Kutney

Author: Grace Kutney

HR 101: Your Guide to a Rewarding Career Helping People

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes to keep a company running smoothly? Enter the fascinating world of Human Resources (HR)!

Think of HR as the backbone of any organization. They handle everything related to its most valuable asset: its people. It’s a dynamic field that goes beyond writing paychecks. HR professionals play a crucial role in:

  • Recruitment: Sourcing, screening, and interviewing top talent to bring the best people on board.
  • Onboarding and Training: Helping new hires adjust to the company culture and equip them with the skills they need to succeed.
  • Employee Relations: Addressing employee concerns, mediating conflicts, and ensuring a positive work environment.
  • Compensation and Benefits: Administering salaries, bonuses, and a range of employee benefits packages.
  • Compliance: Ensuring the organization adheres to labor laws and regulations.

But wait, there’s more! HR isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Here’s a glimpse into some specialties:

  • Talent Acquisition Specialists: The rockstars of recruiting, they find and attract qualified candidates for open positions. Think job postings, resume reviews, and interview coordination.
  • Training and Development Specialists: Focus on building and delivering programs to help employees develop their skills and advance their careers.
  • Compensation and Benefits Analysts: Design and administer employee compensation packages, including salaries, bonuses, and health insurance plans.
  • HR Business Partners: Strategic partners who collaborate with different departments to ensure HR practices align with the organization’s overall goals.

Why HR?

If you enjoy working with people, have a knack for problem-solving, and are passionate about creating a fair and positive work environment, HR could be your calling.

Ready to Dive In?

  • Internships: Gain valuable hands-on experience through HR internships offered by many organizations.
  • Network: Connect with HR professionals. The Career Center can help you connect with alumni and other HR professionals to gain insights into the field.
  • Explore Resources: Websites like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM: https://www.shrm.org/) and HR Certification Institute (HRCI: https://www.hrci.org/) offer valuable information and resources.

Remember, your liberal arts education and strong interpersonal skills are assets in HR. So, if you’re looking for a career that lets you make a difference in people’s professional lives, HR might be the perfect fit for you!

Beyond the Code: Your Secret Superpower for Tech & Data Success

We all know coding chops are like kryptonite to a computer – essential for bending technology to your will. But hold up, budding tech wizards, because there’s a secret ingredient even more powerful than a perfect Python loop: soft skills!

Yep, you read that right. While coding languages and data wrangling are your tools, soft skills are the superpowers that unlock their full potential, turning you from a lone coder to a tech titan or data demigod.

So, what are these mystical soft skills? Think of them as your social superpowers, like:

  • Communication: No, it’s not just about writing clear emails (though that’s important!). It’s about explaining complex technical concepts to non-technical folks, like that one neighbor who still thinks “the cloud” is a fluffy white thing in the sky. It’s about active listening, understanding different perspectives, and building trust with teammates and clients.
  • Collaboration: Tech and data aren’t solo sports. Imagine building a spaceship using only duct tape and bubblegum – that’s what working without collaboration feels like. You need to work effectively with diverse teams, share ideas, give and receive feedback, and celebrate victories together (because let’s be honest, debugging can be a warzone!).
  • Critical Thinking: This isn’t just about spotting typos in your code (although, good eye!). It’s about analyzing problems from different angles, questioning assumptions, and coming up with creative solutions. Think of yourself as a data detective, sniffing out insights and uncovering hidden patterns in the digital haystack.
  • Problem-Solving: Remember that feeling when your code finally compiles without errors? Pure euphoria, right? Well, that’s just the beginning. Tech and data are all about tackling challenges, big and small. So, sharpen your problem-solving skills, embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, and get used to thinking outside the binary box.
  • Adaptability: The tech world is like a rollercoaster on fast-forward – ever-changing, always unpredictable. Be a chameleon, not a grumpy cactus. Embrace new technologies, learn new skills on the fly, and stay flexible in the face of change. This adaptability is what separates the innovators from the tech dinosaurs.

So, how do you hone these secret superpowers?

  • Practice makes perfect: Volunteer for presentations, join project teams, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. Remember, every stumble is a step closer to mastery.
  • Seek out mentors: Find experienced professionals in your field who can guide you and share their wisdom. Bonus points if they’re as cool as Obi-Wan Kenobi!
  • Get involved in your community: Attend workshops, hackathons, and conferences. Network with other tech enthusiasts, share your knowledge, and learn from theirs.

Remember, soft skills are the superpowers that elevate your technical expertise to legendary status. They’re the secret sauce that makes you a team player, a leader, and a valuable asset in any tech or data landscape. So, don’t just focus on lines of code, but also cultivate the social superpowers that will make you a force to be reckoned with in the exciting world of tech and data!

Sources:

Now go forth and conquer! And remember, the force of soft skills is with you!

Unleashing Your Inner Entrepreneur: From Intern to Idea Machine

Internships – sometimes they’re data entry and filing, other times they’re life-changing experiences. But what if we told you every internship, no matter how “mundane,” holds the secret sauce to igniting your entrepreneurial spirit? Boom! Mind blown.

Think of your internship as a laboratory for your inner innovator. Here’s why:

1. Peek Behind the Curtain: You’re seeing how a real business ticks. Observe how decisions are made, problems tackled, and customers engaged. This insider knowledge is gold for understanding what makes businesses thrive (or dive).

2. Idea Oasis: Every task, every meeting, every overheard conversation is a potential goldmine for ideas. Is there a process that could be streamlined? A customer pain point begging for a solution? Boom! There’s your spark.

3. Network Ninja: From colleagues to clients, you’re surrounded by potential mentors, collaborators, and even future investors. Be open, friendly, and connect with those who inspire you. Remember, your network is your net worth (figuratively, of course).

4. Skills Bootcamp: Hone your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Learn how to manage projects, navigate deadlines, and present your ideas with confidence. These are the tools every entrepreneur needs in their arsenal.

5. Fail Forward: Mistakes happen, even (especially) during internships. But guess what? That’s how you learn and grow. Embrace the bumps in the road as stepping stones to brilliance. Remember, Thomas Edison had a thousand failed lightbulb attempts before he got it right. So, experiment, iterate, and don’t be afraid to fall – just get back up even faster.

Now, unleashing your inner entrepreneur doesn’t mean quitting your internship tomorrow and launching a unicorn startup (although, if you have a killer idea, go for it!). It’s about cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset: being proactive, creative, and resourceful. Here are some practical tips:

  • Keep a notebook handy: Jot down ideas, observations, and questions that pop into your head.
  • Talk to everyone: Ask questions, seek feedback, and share your own thoughts. You never know where inspiration might strike.
  • Seek out challenges: Volunteer for new projects, suggest improvements, and take initiative. Be curious and ask questions. The more you understand, the more you can contribute.
  • Connect with local entrepreneurs: Attend meetups, workshops, and events. Learn from their experiences and build your network.
  • Read like a sponge: Devour books, articles, and podcasts about entrepreneurship, innovation, and problem-solving.

Remember, your internship is a launchpad, not a destination. Use it to experiment, learn, and build your entrepreneurial toolkit. Who knows, maybe by the end, you’ll be the one offering internships!

Bonus Resources:

So, go forth, intern-preneurs! Unleash your inner idea machine, embrace the challenges, and remember, the world needs your unique brilliance. Now get out there and change the game!

Preparing for Internships in Business: Setting the Stage for Success

Internships are like the dress rehearsals for your future career in the business world. They provide invaluable hands-on experience, help you bridge the gap between theory and practice, and open doors to exciting opportunities. But, securing a meaningful internship requires careful preparation and strategic planning. As you prepare for internships in business, here are some essential steps to help you set the stage for success.

1. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting

Before diving into the internship application process, take some time for self-reflection. What are your career goals? What specific skills or experiences do you hope to gain from this internship? By clarifying your objectives, you’ll be better equipped to identify the right opportunities and tailor your application materials accordingly.

2. Resume Enhancement

Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers. Ensure it showcases your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Highlight coursework, extracurricular activities, and any relevant projects or volunteer work. If you lack direct business experience, emphasize transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. Consider using our resume AI tool, VMock to receive personalized feedback and make your resume stand out. Advisors and Career Peer Educators are also available to review your resumes.

3. Networking

Building a strong professional network can significantly enhance your internship prospects. Attend employer info sessions (even the virtual ones!), alumni events, and networking sessions. Connect with alumni and other professionals on LinkedIn and don’t be afraid to reach out for informational interviews. Personal connections can provide valuable insights and referrals.

4. Research Internship Opportunities

Start your search for internships early. Look for opportunities on Handshake, company websites, job boards, and industry-specific platforms. Pay attention to application deadlines and requirements. Don’t limit yourself to the most well-known companies; smaller firms and startups can offer equally rewarding experiences.

5. Interview Preparation

When you secure an interview, be ready to impress. Long before even being invited for an interview, start practicing common interview questions and prepare thoughtful answers that illustrate your qualifications. You can utilize Big Interview to prepare for interviews and build your confidence. When you do have an interview scheduled, research the company thoroughly, including its culture, recent news, and industry trends. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer to show your genuine interest.

6. Professional Attire

Dress appropriately for interviews and networking events. Business attire may vary by industry, but it’s generally better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Ensure your appearance is clean, neat, and professional.

7. Follow-Up

After interviews or networking events, send personalized thank-you notes or emails to express your appreciation for the opportunity to connect. This gesture demonstrates your professionalism and genuine interest in the role.

8. Internship Skill Building

While you await internship offers, continue developing your skills. Consider online courses or workshops to gain specific knowledge relevant to your field of interest. Building your skill set not only makes you a more attractive candidate but also boosts your confidence. Consider completing an internship project simulation through Forage.

9. Stay Persistent

The internship search can be competitive, and rejection is a part of the process. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Instead, use them as opportunities for growth and learning. Stay persistent in your efforts and keep refining your approach.

10. Seek Guidance from a Career Advisor

Don’t hesitate to make an appointment with me, or any of the career advisors at the Career Center. We can provide personalized guidance, review your resume, conduct mock interviews, and offer insights to enhance your internship search. We’re here for you – now, during internships, throughout your time at Lawrence, and after graduation.

Preparing for internships in business requires a combination of self-reflection, skill development, networking, and meticulous planning. By taking these steps, you’ll increase your chances of securing a meaningful internship that will pave the way for a successful career in the business world. Remember, internships are not just about gaining experience; they’re about discovering your passion and potential. So, seize the opportunity, and set the stage for your future success.

VPA Gap Year Opportunities

Theatre

Actors Theatre – Louisville
     Approximate Deadline: February 28
American Stage Apprenticeship Programs
     Approximate Deadline: April 30
Arden Theatre Professional Apprentice
     Approximate Deadline: May 1
Barter Theater Apprenticeships and Internships
     Approximate Deadline:
Berkeley Repertory Theatre’s Fellowship Program
     Approximate Deadline: March 10
CENTERSTAGE’s Professional Internship Program
     Approximate Deadline: Rolling, and selection process begins in early March
Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
     Approximate Deadline: January 28
Acting Apprenticeship at Kingsman Shakespeare
     Approximate Deadline: January
Smithsonian Fellowships (several opportunities)
     Approximate Deadline: Various
Steppenwolf Theatre Apprenticeships and Fellowships
     Approximate Deadline: March 18

Résumé Phrase Ideas for Common Campus Jobs

Campus jobs and student organization leadership positions are rich with valuable transferable skills. These experiences can be captured on your resume and described during interviews. For inspiration, here are a few examples clustered by job type.

Admissions Office Student Worker

  • Represented university to campus visitors, including prospective students, parents, alumni and community members
  • Answered questions about ____ College and local community
  • Wrote original content for Admissions Blog, read by prospective students and parents
  • Helped set up for special visit days and Admissions events
  • Entered data into Banner database, maintaining accuracy and strict confidentiality
  • Answered phones and called prospective students
  • Participated in regular staff meetings
  • Offered suggestions for improving campus tour procedure, all of which were adopted
  • Consistently recognized by visitors for providing engaging and interesting campus tours
  • Trained new student workers, both on the job and during week-long training
  • Provided front desk coverage as needed
  • Performed variety of administrative tasks, including filing, photocopying, faxing, checking and sending emails, preparing mass mailings, etc.

Food Service Worker/Catering Staff

  • Worked professionally with diverse range of patrons, including faculty, donors, board members, alumni, students and general public
  • One of only 2 student workers requested by name to cater high-stakes donor events
  • Communicated regularly with supervisors and co-workers to ensure timely and efficient set-up of large-scale events
  • Conducted regular detailed inventory of stock to ensure accurate documentation for purchasing manager
  • Assisted in training new staff; edited and updated training manual to include time-saving tips
  • Promoted twice within same academic year
  • Managed customer complaints professionally and promptly
  • Organized and cleaned work station regularly to ensure safe, efficient work environment
  • Assisted in other workstations as needed; floated between stations whenever necessary
  • Adapted easily to new equipment and procedures; assisted other staff in making transition
  • Collaborated with supervisors and co-workers to resolve staffing coverage concerns

Greek Life

  • Oversaw and executed recruitment process; created public relations plan for the year and successfully increase recruitment quota from ___ to ____
  • Collaborated with membership chairs of other sororities to coordinate recruitment process
  • Oversaw $_____ budget; coordinated with President in allocating funds responsibly throughout academic year
  • Spearheaded university’s first Leadership Speaker Series; enlisted help of alumni and local professionals to share their leadership expertise
  • Organized several philanthropic events, both on campus and in community, successfully raising over $____ for local charities
  • Commissioned to design logo for InterFraternity Council’s stop smoking initiative
  • Used Java and MySQL to develop a voting system to enable members to anonymously vote on fraternity business
  • Re-designed fraternity’s website using PHP and Flash resulting in __% increase in web traffic
  • Participated in diversity and cultural sensitivity training
  • Served as member of chapter’s Honor Board
  • Ensured that all standing rules and bylaws, as well as national rules, were adhered to consistently

Library Student Worker

  • Answered patron questions, referred them to appropriate resources
  • Communicated regularly with supervisor and co-workers to ensure efficient transition between shifts
  • Trained new student staff to on library procedures and on how to use electronic databases
  • Offered suggestion for creating Discord group for library workers, helping to encourage community-building
  • Helped craft solution for scheduling conflicts among student staff
  • Acted as first point of contact for community members, including toddlers, teens, business people and retirees
  • Sorted and re-shelved books and media
  • Processed faculty and graduate student requests for interlibrary loans
  • Labeled, stamped and sorted hundreds of books with 100% accuracy

Resident Assistant/Community Advisor

  • Designed and delivered wide range of programming options for residents, resulting in 5% increase in student participation over previous year
  • Participated in extensive safety training and on-going professional development
  • Acted as mediator for residents and helped identify practical solutions for disagreements
  • Maintained professionalism during emergency situations, being careful to implement standard protocols
  • Referred students to appropriate on-campus and off-campus resources as needed
  • Collaborated regularly with fellow RAs to ensure safe, respectful, fun, inclusive living environment
  • Processed and recorded all requests for maintenance repairs or custodial needs
  • Communicated with administrators, staff, faculty and community members in person, by phone, and through written correspondence
  • Recognized as approachable and energetic by residents, peers, staff, and administrators
  • Oversaw logistics for various programs, including securing venues, ordering food, coordinating schedules, and implementing marketing strategies
  • Organized collaborative hall events to raise awareness about sustainability efforts
  • Assisted with move-in day activities; welcomed freshmen and their families
  • Respond promptly and professionally to all resident concerns

Student Organization President

  • Led monthly all-group meetings, and bi-weekly leadership meetings
  • Instituted new marketing plan to overhaul recruitment practices resulting in 45% increase in membership
  • Assisted in developing strategic plan which included, ______, ______, and ______
  • During two year tenure, increased member participation in ____ by ____%
  • Mediated member disagreements, particularly related to allocation of funds
  • Represented group on various campus-wide committees to advocate for ______ issues
  • Communicated regularly with other student organizations, administrative offices, faculty and community members
  • Recognized as an approachable, fair, professional leader
  • Coordinated logistics for annual student conference in _________
  • Acted as emcee for ____ fundraiser which raised over $____ for ______
  • Generated discussion topics for weekly brown bag lunch series
  • Identified and secured speakers for _______ event
  • Revitalized group’s social media presence, including the addition of Instagram and TikTok, leading to 126% improved member involvement

Tutor/Educator

  • Explained complex mathematical concepts in easy-to-understand terms to high school students
  • Spoke with parents in person and by phone to provide progress updates and to answer questions or concerns regarding their child’s learning
  • Offered test-taking and exam preparation strategies to freshmen and sophomore French majors
  • Organized weekly lesson plans for 8 music students
  • Coordinated tutoring schedules for 2 college students and 4 high school students
  • Facilitated workshops on “Time Management for College Students”
  • Provided one-on-one tutoring for college students with different learning abilities, including a student diagnosed with dyslexia, and another diagnosed with Asperger syndrome
  • Worked with students on analytical reasoning
  • Helped students identify problems in their writing, such as circular or faulty reasoning