Career Readiness Program for Non-Academic Careers

Here at the NC State Graduate School our Professional Development team believes that your career options extend far beyond the boundaries of academia. As a graduate student, you possess a wealth of skills and knowledge that is highly sought after in various industries and sectors outside of traditional academic settings. Whether you aspire to work in technology, government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector, our goal is to equip you with the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to navigate and thrive in careers outside of academia. Explore the exciting possibilities that await you and discover how your graduate education can open doors to diverse and rewarding professional paths.

Career Readiness Wheel

Your career journey is ongoing, and this wheel serves as a reference throughout your graduate degree and postdoctoral research. Use this wheel to stay proactive, thoughtful, and strategic as you plan your next steps in career exploration and preparation.

Explore our Trademarked Accelerate to Industry (A2i) Program

Explore A2i Offerings

Learn more about our professional program offered that represents the interests of more than 10,000 graduate students and postdoctoral associates.

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Academic Institution Partners

A2i’s academic partner network was previously funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through an Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) grant. Today we continue to expand the academic partner as we approach 40 partner across the US and internationally. 

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Industry Partners

A2i offers industry partners opportunities to collaborate with NC State University to shape the future of holistic and integrated workforce readiness at their companies.

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Other Career Readiness Offerings

Individual Career Coaching Appointments

Kelly Rownd, Director of Career Readiness, offers weekly one-on-one career coaching appointments for graduate students and postdocs.

To schedule an appointment, schedule a
30 minute session with Kelly through Navigate.

Navigate 

University Career Fairs

Join the wolfpack at Career Fairs across the university for networking, job opportunities, and career growth. Career Fairs are a great opportunity to connect you, our graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, with employers.

For more information about upcoming career fairs see the NC State Career Development Center website.

More Information Here 

Wolfpack Styled Professional Clothing Closet

The Wolfpack Styled Professional Clothing Closet is operated by the NC State Career Development Center and provides students with the professional clothing needed for an interview, a career fair, a conference, or for the first week of work. The attire is generously donated by faculty, staff, alumni, and employers to help students succeed.

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Professional Photo Booth

The Career Development Center offers the Iris Professional Photo Booth, a service of free professional photos for NC State students, faculty, and staff. The photo booth is self-service with a touch screen, high-quality lighting, and camera equipment.

Learn More Here 

LinkedIn Learning (LL) Resources

Are you looking for additional tools to boost your career readiness? Check out LinkedIn Learning to discover expert-led course videos that will help prepare you for your next step.

Other Career Readiness Resources