Alumni Council Career and Employment Services Committee
Are you considering joining the ASK Network?
Shannon Hughes '92 urges "Do it...it's not a big time commitment and you'll likely learn at least one key thing from talking to a student."
More Information
Chair:
Shannon Hughes '92
Committee Members:
Arthur Campbell '50
Lael Carlson '02
Steven Harvey '84
Lacey Leffler '03
Ted Meriam '05
Matt Yarkosky '03, '05
Why did you join the ASK Network?
I joined the ASK Network because I had just gone through the experience of looking for that first post-graduation job myself. I knew how frightening, confusing and frustrating it could be and I wanted to be a resource for other students to, hopefully, make that transition easier by providing advice about my job, or the job-hunting process in general.
What would you say to other alumni who are considering joining the ASK Network?
I would definitely recommend that other alumni think about joining the ASK Network. The process of talking to current students/recent graduates about their first job is rewarding and allows you to reminisce a bit about that time in your life as well. (Plus, it's a great way to get updates on what's happening at Puget Sound!)
Tell us about your interactions with students through the ASK network.
I often meet with students who have contacted me through the ASK Network at my office for informational interviews. It's a great way for them to practice interviewing skills in a non-stressful setting, and I think most find it to be a valuable way to learn more about a field that they may be interested in.
Why were you interested in participating in the Career and Employment Services Committee?
I was interested in participating in the Career and Employment Services Committee because I am a big believer in the benefits of the ASK Network, but feel it is an under-utilized tool. I'm hoping to change that with my involvement in the CESC.
Why did you join the ASK Network?
It's a way to give back and I like to interact with students.
Tell us about your interactions with students through the ASK Network or at ASK Night.
I always have good discussions. I especially appreciate the follow-up of students afterwards which shows my time and their time was well spent.
What would you say to alumni who are considering joining the ASK Network?
Do it...it's not a big time commitment and you'll likely learn at least one key thing from talking to a student.
Why were you interested in participating in the Career and Employment Services Committee?
It gives me something specific to contribute to the university. Also, I enjoy collaborating with the smart group of people on this committee.
Why did you join the ASK Network?
I joined the ASK Network because it is a way for me to give back to the UPS Community and hopefully inspire and give current students hope in the current job market.
Why were you interested in participating in the Career and Employment Services Committee?
Career and Employment Services was a valuable asset to me when I was a student at UPS. I found my first work-study job at the Broadway Center through Career and Employment Services and worked with the organization for three years as a student. After graduation, I was hired directly by the company and continue to work there today as the Associate Director of Marketing.
Why did you join the ASK Network?
I joined the ASK Network, quickly after I landed my first job, as a way to give back to an institution that had provided me with so much. An alumni connection provided the introduction to Microsoft: a shoe-in at a top-rated company that would have otherwise been difficult to get.
Tell us about your interactions with students through the ASK network and/or at ASK Night.
I consider the Alumni Sharing Knowledge concept in broader terms, as alumni can offer current students guidance in more areas than simply professional development. As a current student, an alumnus provided with direction on how to position myself to obtain a job at Microsoft.
However, interactions with alumni throughout my college experience provided the needed insight into a world outside of (and after) Puget Sound. Today, I share stories with prospective and current students, suggest courses, emphasize internships, review resumes, give talks about my time at Puget Sound, and overall provide mentorship as requested.
Why were you interested in participating in the Career and Employment Services Committee?
Introductions between students and employers should not happen in a serendipitous manner. I joined the CES Alumni Council Committee to help develop a framework and strategy to connect students and alumni together in a more targeted way.
Why did you join the ASK Network?
ASK is fun because you get a chance to not only see what other alumni are doing, but you also get to meet current Puget Sound students and give them advice about career planning.
Tell us about your interactions with students at ASK Night.
I went to ASK night one year, and since I teach in the area some students interested in teaching got a chance to come out to my classroom to see what life as a teacher is really like.
Why were you interested in participating in the Career and Employment Services Committee?
I worked as a peer advisor while at Puget Sound and I think the people who work there are great; and I like to help other students as they near graduation. There is so much hope in many new graduates and I like to see that excitement.
