Career Coaching and Readiness Services

The Office of Student Leadership and Development provides student-centered programming and services that promote career readiness and employer networking opportunities, while also engaging with alumni to foster continued professional growth and connection. This outreach to alumni helps build a robust network of support for current students and offers career development opportunities throughout their careers.

Interested in becoming career-ready? Students and alumni are welcome to meet with the Career Readiness Office today!

Career coaching appointments are available virtually and in-person.

Email: [email protected]

Career Readiness Resources

Career Readiness Assessment

All CCA students receive FREE Career Readiness Assessments. You can complete the assessment three times while at CCA. Results are provided instantly with resources and information to support your career journey!

Career Readiness Skill Training

Career Launch is a Free program to CCA students. In this program you will:

Create professional relationships at places you’d like to work.
Explore career fields and other interest.
Improve self-confidence and career preparation.

Handshake

Handshake is the number one job internship site for college students.

Sign Up
Create a profile and get personalized job recommendations.
Meet with employers to learn more about company culture and open roles.
Apply in as few as two click.

Need support in joining Handshake? Check out the help page by clicking HERE.

The Forage

Forage’s job simulations provide an immersive experience that builds real-life skills essential for various roles. You can:

Gain insights into company culture and a preview of daily tasks
Enhance your employability
Access job simulations that are 100% free, and self-paced
Find internship opportunities

Career Readiness Guide for Students and Alumni

Explore Yourself

Discover your passions and values to guide your career journey.

Explore careers based on your interests: My Next Move

Visualize your career path with personalized tools: Picture Your Career

Identify what matters most in your work life: Career One Stop Values Matcher

Find careers that fit your personality type: Holland Code Career Test

Navigate your educational and career options in Colorado: My Colorado Journey

Explore The World of Work

Expand your horizons and learn about various careers.

Explore careers, salaries, and job growth: Zippia

Discover career options based on your major: What Can I do With This Major?

Assess your skills and find matching careers: My Skills Future

In-depth career information, including tasks and required skills: Onetonline

Explore real-life career journeys and insights: Road Trip Nation

Reality Texting

Check the Fit: Reality Testing or Prototyping

Try out careers and see if they resonate with internships.

Engage in simulations to gain real-world experience: The Forage (Career Simulation)

Freelancing or Gig Work: Test the waters with short-term projects. This allows you

to apply your skills, gain experience, and see if you enjoy the work.

Workshops: Attend workshops or training sessions focused on skills related to your

career interests. This can enhance your abilities and provide a taste of the work

Take Action & Reevaluate

Assess your experiences and refine your career path.

Get resources, learn networking, and get support for your career journey: Career Launch

Access coaching and mentorship to boost your career: Career Spring for first gen and FGLI Students

Enhance your skills through your 2DL Portal: LinkedIn Learning

Practice your interview skills with tailored resources using video and AI: Talentfly
Creating a Strong Resume

Your resume is a powerful marketing tool that highlights your skills, experiences, and achievements. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you craft an effective resume that stands out:

General Format
- Place your name and contact information at the top in a standard format.
- Ensure easy scanning with concise, one to two pages.
- Maintain half inch to one-inch margins.
- Utilize professional fonts and avoid flashy styles or colors.
- Omit personal details like photos, birthdates, hobbies, and marital status.
- Highlight major achievements and skills in bullet points.
- Begin each bullet point with an action verb.
- Include numbers and metrics where appropriate.
Heading
- Center your name as the largest text on the page.
- Include city and state for address.
- Provide a professional email and phone number.
- Add a LinkedIn URL if applicable.
Summary
- Tailor to the specific job and industry.
- Keep it concise and focused on career intentions.
Education

Place education section based on relevance and work history. If graduated or graduating within 0-3 years, put education under summary. 10+ years after graduation, put at the bottom.
- List degrees, majors, concentrations, and minors.
- Include graduation month and year.
- Add GPAs if over 3.0.
- Consider relevant coursework and certifications
Skills
- Customize to job requirements.·
- Separate hard and soft skills with bullet points.
Experience
- Start with the most recent experience.
- List work title, company, date range, position type
- Use action verbs and quantify achievements.
- Tailor responsibilities to align with the job description. Highlight achievements with concise bullet points
Additional Sections
- Awards: List in order of importance. List business or project awards under experience. Include scholarships and academic achievements under education.
- Foreign Languages: Specify Proficiency levels.
- Community Involvement/Volunteer Work: List roles and responsibilities.
- Publications: Mention if applicable.
- Certifications: Include if relevant to the role.
- Memberships: In professional organizations.
Customize for Each Application
1. - Tailor your resume to match job requirements and industry standards.
  - Highlight transferable skills and technical expertise.
Final Tips
1. - Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with power verbs (e.g., led, developed, designed).
  - Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and specifics to showcase impact.
  - Ensure Clarity: Make sure the resume is easy to read and error-free.
  - Mobile-Friendly Version: Prepare if needed.
Avoid Template Issues
1. - Be cautious with templates as they may not always be read correctly by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Consider customizing your format.
Your cover letter is your chance to make a memorable impression and connect with a potential employer on a personal level. Unlike your resume, which outlines your experiences, a cover letter provides an opportunity to dive deeper into how your background aligns with the job you’re applying for. Here’s how to craft a compelling cover letter:

Key Questions to Address

Before you start drafting, consider these essential questions:
- What qualities is the employer looking for?
  Reflect on the key attributes and skills mentioned in the job description.
- How do your skills match these qualities?
  Highlight how your unique skills and experiences align with the employer’s needs.
- What attracts you to this company and role?
  Show that you’ve researched the company and are genuinely interested in the role.
- Why is this opportunity important to you?
  Explain why this position excites you and how it fits into your career goals.
Writing Tips
- Personalize Each Letter: Tailor your cover letter to the specific role and company. Demonstrate that you understand their organization and industry.
- Use Clear, Assertive Language: Communicate confidently about why you’re the perfect fit for the job. Keep your language direct and engaging.
- Be Concise: Your cover letter should be to the point—ideally one page. Focus on the most relevant aspects of your background and how they relate to the job.
- Incorporate Keywords: Use terms from the job description to ensure your cover letter catches the employer’s eye during initial screenings.
First Paragraph: Nail the lead. The lead or first sentence is the main idea of the cover letter. You are saying “here is who I am and why I want to work for you.” Position yourself as a skills fit and a cultural match.

Body: You can also introduce your personality and likability. Adjust the tone of each letter to the company and share stories that prove you are a fit. Provide evidence of your specific skills and experiences that directly align with the employer’s needs. Begin these ideas with the phrase: “What specifically would I bring to XYZ company in the role?” Then lay out expertise creating the exact job description core phrases in bold bullet points followed by a brief explanation of direct evidence of something you have done or are currently doing.

A Compelling Close-Create a strong close that ties everything together.
- Show confidence and enthusiasm for the role and the company.
- Summarize why you are uniquely suited for the position.
- Express gratitude for the opportunity to be considered.
Embarking on your job and internship search is an exciting step toward shaping your career path. To navigate this journey effectively, it’s crucial to leverage a variety of resources that can connect you with potential employers and opportunities. From exploring campus-specific platforms like Handshake and engaging in career fairs to tapping into online networking tools, this guide will help you utilize every avenue available. Whether you’re seeking positions on or off-campus or looking to make the most of upcoming events, these strategies will equip you with the tools and insights needed to approach your search with confidence and clarity.

Preparing for Your Search

Before diving into your search, make sure you have your materials in order:
- Update Your Documents: Ensure your resume, CV, and cover letter are polished. Gather any references and organize your transcripts and letters of recommendation. Don’t forget to refine your online presence, such as your LinkedIn profile.
- Set Your Goals: Define clear career objectives and timelines. Reflect on your experiences to identify transferable skills and use tools to keep track of your applications and deadlines.
- Some simple, free tools that can help keep track of job applications, deadlines, and follow-ups:
- Google Sheets or Excel: Create a simple spreadsheet to log job applications. You can include columns for the company name, position, application date, status, follow-up dates, and notes.
Effective Networking

Networking is a crucial component of your job search:
- Leverage Existing Contacts: Start with people you know. They can provide valuable referrals and advice.
- Attend Events: Participate in career fairs and networking sessions to meet potential employers and expand your network.
- Build Your Online Brand: Use LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals and join relevant groups. Keep your Facebook profile professional and engage with career-related organizations. On X/Twitter, follow job-related hashtags and connect with industry leaders.
Applying Strategically

When applying for jobs or internships:
- Use Targeted Platforms: Explore job boards like Handshake for opportunities specifically geared toward Community College of Aurora students or alumni. Check company websites and stay alert for legitimate postings.
- Prepare for Interviews: Research salary expectations and practice common interview questions. Develop a strong elevator pitch and prepare for behavioral questions. Familiarize yourself with Equal Employment Opportunity resources to understand your rights.
Utilizing Online Tools

Maximize your job search with these online tools:
- LinkedIn: Showcase your skills, join industry groups, and network with alumni.
- Facebook: Clean up your profile and engage with career-focused groups.
- X/Twitter: Use hashtags like #jobs to find openings and connect with professionals.
- Blogs: Follow industry-specific blogs to stay updated and establish yourself as a knowledgeable candidate.
- Mobile Optimization: Ensure your job search documents are mobile-friendly for easy access on the go.
- Personal Website: Consider creating a professional website to display your achievements and portfolio.
Interviews are your chance to demonstrate how your experiences and skills align with what the employer is looking for. It’s a two-way exchange where you showcase your qualifications while also learning more about the role and organization. To make a great impression and set yourself up for success, here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing for your interview:

Why You are Being Interviewed

The Company wants to know:
- Are you a good fit for the company/institution?
- Are you a good fit for the team?
- Can you do the job?
What Makes for A Star Candidate?
- The candidate has lined up several job options, giving them a strong position.
- With multiple opportunities on the table, the candidate feels empowered when stepping into interviews.
- They see interviews as a chance for both sides to discuss mutual goals and expectations.
- Going into conversations confidently, the candidate is not overly eager to be chosen. Guided by a clear career strategy, the candidate seeks roles that fit their long-term
Prepare Like a Rock Star

Create a plan for your interview:
- Employers have a plan for job interviews.
- They know how much time they have, what they want to learn about you, and what questions they will ask.
- If you do not have a plan, you have no control over where the interview goes, meaning, the employer is running 100% of the show.
3 Steps to be on equal footing:
- Understand what the employer is looking for in the role.
- Based on that, identify the experience you will share in your interview.
- Prepare questions that will help you make the decision for or against the role.
Align your experience to the job role:
- Look at the job description, narrow down the top three most important things they are looking for from a candidate which could be skills or experience.
- Job descriptions have three main parts that mirror each other:
- About the role (Description – talks about the main goal of someone in this role, the main deliverables, and who this person will be working with.)
- Responsibilities (look for overlap in responsibilities and requirements and you will find the top three things)
- Requirements (The more important the skill or experience, the higher on the list)
Anticipate Questions that will be asked

Employers only have a couple of hours with you; they choose questions strategically.

Hard skills:
- If you have the skills to do the job well and help them solve the challenge, they are hiring you for. Find their three must-haves.
- Always prepare concrete examples of these skills, how you used and those skills.
Soft Skills:
- Questions related to soft skills you will need collaborating with different stakeholders. Think about specific situations that will occur in the job and the specific skills required for the situations like conflict management, adaptability, and collaborating.
Questions related to the kind of person that you are, what motivates you. Expect questions about your “Why”:
- Why did you choose this major or industry? Why did you want this role?
- Why are you interested in this company?
- You need a good story: Focus on them and their mission, not just yourself. If you do not have a good answer, consider if the role if right for you.
How to Respond to Questions

Practice delivering your responses to potential questions aloud to ensure clarity.
- Focus on conveying your story effectively within a time of 1-2 minutes.
- Develop specific examples using the STAR (Situation-Task-Action-Result) Approach to highlight instances where you have demonstrated these skills.
- Situation: Start by providing a brief overview of the specific challenge you faced.
- Task: Describe the needed task.
- Actions Taken: Describe the specific actions you took to address the challenge.
- Results: Conclude by highlighting the results of your actions and the impact.
- Ensure your stories are detailed, emphasize positive outcomes, and are truthful.
- During the interview, expect follow-up questions probing your actions and feelings during the situation, emphasizing the importance of honesty.
Mastering Networking for Career Success

Networking is more than just a buzzword—it’s a crucial strategy for unlocking career opportunities. In today’s job market, where up to 80% of positions are filled through personal connections, knowing how to network effectively can set you apart. At Community College of Aurora, we’re dedicated to helping you build these essential skills through our Career Launch Program, which is designed to enhance your social capital and career prospects.

Why Networking Matters
- Career Advancement: Networking isn’t only about job searching; it’s about gathering valuable insights and refining your career goals. Building relationships with industry professionals can provide guidance, advice, and opportunities that you won’t find on job boards.
Skill Development: Our Career Launch Program, held each semester, focuses on developing your networking skills. You’ll learn how to connect effectively, build meaningful relationships, and leverage your network for career growth. This program, open to all students, is designed to help you discover your career goals, expand your professional network, and master the art of career conversations. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to turn networking into tangible career achievements.

Outbound Networking
- Expand Your Reach: Use your existing connections as a gateway to new opportunities. Reach out to friends, family, and classmates who can introduce you to professionals in your field of interest.
- Strategic Connections: Look beyond your immediate network to second-degree connections. These are people your contacts know, and they can be instrumental in expanding your professional reach.
Networking in the Digital Age
- Online Tools: Social media and career networking platforms like LinkedIn are indispensable. Recruiters often use these sites to find talent, so keeping a polished online profile is crucial for career advancement.
- Online Presence: Regularly update your LinkedIn profile and manage your digital footprint. A strong online presence enhances your visibility and can attract opportunities directly to you.
Authentic Networking Tips
- Start Early: Begin building relationships now—every interaction, from classroom discussions to social events, can be an opportunity to make a valuable connection.
- Elevator Pitch: Craft a compelling elevator pitch that highlights who you are, what you’re studying, and what you’re passionate about. This brief introduction can make a lasting impression in any networking situation.
- Engage Actively: Get involved in classes, attend campus events like Career Fairs, and connect with professors. These activities can lead to important introductions and advice.
- Beyond Campus: Attend professional networking events, join industry associations, and participate in workshops. Expanding your network outside of campus can open doors to new opportunities.
- Reputation Management: Every experience you have, whether at work or through internships, contributes to your professional reputation. Approach each opportunity with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
- Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals for informational interviews. These career conversations can provide valuable insights and help you build connections in your field.
- Give Back: Offer assistance and support to others in your network. Helping others fosters goodwill and strengthens your professional relationships.
- LinkedIn Networking: Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals and maintain those relationships. Engage with content relevant to your industry and participate in discussions to stay visible.
LinkedIn Learning: Your Gateway to Skill Mastery

Unlock your potential with LinkedIn Learning, your go-to resource for over 5,000 courses led by industry experts. Whether you’re interested in coding, graphic design, business management, or leadership, LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of topics to help you develop the skills essential for today’s job market.

For present students, LinkedIn Learning is accessible through your D2L account, this platform allows you to explore courses tailored to your career goals. Track your progress, earn certifications, and showcase your achievements on LinkedIn to stand out to potential employers. With LinkedIn Learning, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in your chosen field.

Forage: Real-World Experience with Top Companies

The Forage is free to students and alumni. Gain hands-on experience with Forage, where you can complete online projects supported by leading companies like JPMorgan Chase & Co, Citi, Accenture, BCG, and Deloitte. Forage offers practical insights into real business challenges, helping you build industry-specific expertise and enhance your resume.

Whether you’re pursuing a career in finance, consulting, technology, or another field, Forage provides valuable opportunities to develop skills and make meaningful connections within your industry.
An elevator pitch is more than just a quick introduction—it’s your chance to make a memorable impression in a brief amount of time. Imagine you’re in an elevator with someone who could potentially influence your career. You’ve got about 30 to 60 seconds to succinctly tell them who you are, what you do, and what makes you unique. It’s your moment to stand out and spark interest in your background and goals.

Why Practice Your Elevator Pitch?

Mastering your elevator pitch is crucial for making a positive impact in any professional setting, from virtual career fairs to casual networking events. Rehearsing your pitch with friends, family, or mentors can help you gain confidence and refine your delivery. The goal is to be clear, compelling, and concise, ensuring that you leave a strong impression no matter where or when you present it.

Sample Elevator Pitches to Inspire You

Example #1: “Hi, I’m Jordan Lee, I am at Community College of Aurora majoring in environmental science with a focus on urban sustainability. I’ve gained practical experience through a research project on local green spaces and an internship with a non-profit dedicated to urban gardening. This summer, I’m looking for an internship that combines my passion for environmental conservation with urban development, and I’m excited to explore opportunities where I can contribute to meaningful projects.”