Did you know that participation in an internship increases a student’s likelihood of employment? Students who complete an internship while in college are 48.2% more likely to attain college-level employment than those who do not.
By providing targeted career exploration and coaching to undergraduates participating in TRIO’s Student Support Services and McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement programs, the TRIO Career Development Program (TCDP) stands out as a beacon of hope, offering vital support and guidance to students navigating the daunting landscape of career preparation and advancement.
At the heart of TCDP lies a commitment to reducing income and wealth disparities, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has access to the tools and resources necessary to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Through targeted coaching, supplemental skill development, career exploration, and invaluable connections to employers and professionals, TCDP empowers students to not only secure competitive jobs but to also embark on fulfilling career trajectories.
For example, students’ confidence in their ability to identify employers relevant to career interests, resume preparation, interview for jobs, and make a five-year career plan significantly increased. Additionally, 94% of the students submitting portfolios were rated proficient by an external evaluator (employer or advisor) on three key NACE career competencies: Communication, critical thinking, and professionalism.
The stories of students like Cecilia Puga, Guy Bastien, and Kaniyah Williams exemplify the profound impact of TCDP on their personal and professional journeys.
Cecilia’s testimonial reflects the transformative power of TCDP in instilling confidence and equipping students with essential career-building skills. From mastering the art of the elevator pitch to leveraging platforms like LinkedIn for career advancement, Cecilia’s journey underscores the program’s tangible contributions to her career aspirations, particularly in game design.
Cecilia said, “Being part of TCDP has taught me what to keep in mind when looking for a career. I didn’t realize how effective an elevator pitch can be when exploring career options. I am learning more about how to prepare for a career on my own and how to search for a job. I didn’t understand how LinkedIn worked initially, but TCDP helped me comprehend its functionality and usefulness for exploring careers.”
For Guy Bastien, who returned to college as an older adult and father, TCDP brought with it a newfound world of opportunities through TRIO. His engagement with TCDP has not only broadened his horizons but has also provided invaluable guidance and mentorship, propelling him towards his dream of owning an electronics manufacturing business. Through monthly Zoom sessions and connections with TRIO alumni, Guy has gained critical insights and skills essential for his career advancement in electrical engineering.
Reflecting on his journey, Guy said, “Choosing to go back to college, to further my education and career as an older adult and parent has been one of the best decisions I made in my life. My [TCDP] mentor has been a very helpful person for advice, connections, and resources toward my career goals.”
Kaniyah Williams’ experience as a legislative intern with Congressman James Clyburn speaks volumes about the transformative impact of COE’s TRIO programs. Through TCDP, this experience has leveraged her opportunities to form key networks and relationships at her internship assignment. The modules she participated in were critical in her overall development. Kaniyah has not only expanded her professional network but has also honed skills crucial for navigating the complexities of the professional world. Her aspiration to establish a networking youth program underscores the ripple effect of TCDP in empowering students to become catalysts for change within their communities.
Kaniyah shared, “Thanks to the guidance and support of my mentors within the TRIO Career Development Program, I’ve found myself welcomed into rooms and spaces I never would have imagined stepping into otherwise.”
What sets TCDP apart is not just its provision of resources, but its cultivation of a supportive community dedicated to fostering each other’s success. Through engaging conversations, meaningful interactions, and unwavering mentorship from TRIO alumni, students like Cecilia, Guy, and Kaniyah find themselves not only equipped with essential skills but also enveloped in a sense of belonging to something greater—a community committed to breaking barriers and advocating for underrepresented voices.
As we reflect on these stories, it becomes evident that TCDP is more than just a program—it’s a pathway to opportunity, a springboard for dreams, and a testament to the transformative power of education. By becoming talent-sourcing partners for TCDP, TRIO Student Support Services and TRIO McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement programs have the opportunity to further amplify their impact, ensuring that every student has the support they need to soar to new heights of success.
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