Sarah Syversen has joined the Career Development Center (CDC) as the new Career Liaison for IPS, SoE and School of Social Work.
Sarah, an experienced advisor, studied education as an undergraduate at the University of Arizona and completed a Master’s degree in counseling at DePaul University.
“My journey in career services began right after I graduated college when I served as an Americorps VISTA volunteer. As a VISTA, I worked at the Youth Job Center of Evanston assisting young adults in securing entry-level employment and setting short and long term career and education goals. It was there I discovered my passion for counseling and, in particular, career counseling,” said Sarah.
Now as a Liaison at Loyola, she will:
- Provide career counseling to the students and alumni of IPS and the other schools and programs
- Deliver CDC career courses and workshops
- Partner with IPS and the other schools and programs to deliver in class presentations
- Work with faculty and school-based practicum/internship coordinators
- Facilitate career exploration, preparation, and readiness for a successful transition outside of the Institution
- Conduct outreach to appropriate employers
- Coordinate large events with other universities with similar academic programs
Sarah not only has the skills to assist people in landing a job, but she also has a passion for it.
“I LOVE hearing people’s stories: what do they enjoy doing, what their career and life journey has been like so far, how they define success, how their life experiences have shaped who they are and who they want to be, etc. When I can help others ‘connect the dots’ and clarify their goals, values, and career path, I feel fulfilled and excited about my work,” commented Sarah.
The mission of the CDC is “to educate, counsel, and empower Loyola students and alumni through their self-identity and career exploration process.” In addition, the CDC recognizes the power of “personal reflection and intensive exploration” while job searching. “Career satisfaction is born of an authentic understanding of the self and the needs of the world,” as stated on the CDC website.
Sarah went into further detail as to what services the CDC provides for undergraduates, graduates and alumni.
“We provide one:one career advising and small group workshops for those students and alumni who could use some help determining career goals, clarifying direction, and overcoming obstacles. We also host several career fairs throughout the year, critique resumes and cover letters, discuss interview and networking strategies, and maintain RamblerLink: Loyola’s online volunteer, internship, and employment database.”
Sarah continued, “Our website also has a TON of useful information and links on all of the above topics. Check it out when you get a chance! www.luc.edu/career.”
Moreover, Sarah offered some insight to what tends to be the most challenging part for students about finding a job and shared some advice to overcome this challenge.
“Students often have on ‘blinders’ and are so focused on one particular career path or one narrow definition of success that they become easily disappointed or frustrated. On the other hand, when students are patient, keep their minds open to different or unexpected opportunities, and take the time to truly explore and reflect on their career values and interests, they tend to view themselves as much more successful and happy in their careers.”
In addition, she shared a couple of the best tips for success when searching for a job:
- Have a career advisor critique your resume! Not only can we critique it for spelling and grammatical errors, but we can help you reformat your resume to emphasize relevant experiences or re-word a job description to highlight your transferable skills!
- Learn how to use your network effectively. Nowadays, your network is key to finding a job. I can coach you on how to build your network and use it to your advantage.
Sarah was also kind enough to share some helpful resources:
- Check out our online resources! For job seekers, I especially recommend this page: http://luc.edu/career/job_searching.shtml
- Also, Loyola recently started an alumni database, where students can reach out to alumni working in fields in which they are interested and begin career conversations. Check out LUConnect: http://luc.edu/career/luconnect/
- Finally, for more information on jobs and internships, check out some external websites the CDC has found helpful: http://luc.edu/career/resources_general_jobsites.shtml
To conclude Sarah said, “I’m looking forward to working with you all!”
For more help, you can find Sarah at the Water Tower Campus in Corboy 800. Stop by for some advice or to say thank you and welcome to Loyola’s WTC!
**Join the conversation by following @BrianSchmisek on Twitter and @LoyolaIPS on Instagram! Also, network with the Loyola Chicago IPS community on LinkedIn.