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 Certificate

The NC State Graduate School Professional Development Career Readiness Certificate is a comprehensive program designed to enhance your employability and prepare you for success in the job market.

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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 is currently funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through an Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) grant. 

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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

Foundational Career Readiness Workshops

Career Exploration – Finding your Career Journey

STAR Technique – Interviewing with a story

Building your Strengths – Understanding you and your passions

Professional Portfolio Basics for Non-Academic Careers

January 10, 18, and 25 from 3:30 – 5 p.m.
February 1 from 9-10 a.m.

Register this fall via our Workshops Page

Workshops Page 

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 her Calendly link.

https://calendly.com/kellyrownd

Calendly 

A2i Graduate Career Fair

Save the Date for Friday, June 28, 2024

Join us for a day of networking, job opportunities, and career growth as we connect you, our graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, with our Industry Partners.

Student registration will open soon

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.