Four Year Career Plan

Freshman: Discovery & Understanding

Get to know your faculty mentor, department Chair and Career Coach.
 
READ, READ, READ industry relevant materials.
 
Start a portfolio by documenting every project.
 
Sign into Handshake and create a profile, which is provided by CCS.
 
Schedule an appointment with your Career Coach to start creating a career plan.

Sophomores: Research & Exploration

Research companies/organizations of interest for internships, residencies and fellowships.
 
Deepen your understanding of professional expectations.
 
Research and explore career opportunities that are exciting.
 
Populate a portfolio/demo reel with your companies/organizations of interest in mind.
 
Meet with your faculty mentor for advice to support your career interests.

Juniors: Refine Your Plan

Continue developing a professional portfolio/demo reel.
 
Develop an internship plan. Explore timing, opportunities, and benefits and review expectations. Create application materials for internships including a resume and cover letter.
 
Build your network! Connect with the people you meet on social media.
 
Refine your verbal presentation skills for interviews that take place in person or virtually. Request an informational interview with key companies/organizations.
 
Get your portfolio approved by your faculty mentor or Chair. Submit your portfolio for inclusion on the CCS Portfolio Site shared with all CCS industry partners each semester.

Seniors: Execute Your Plan

Meet with your Career Coach to finalize your plan.
 
Compile your target list including potential places of employment, graduate schools, fellowships/residencies, and other artistic opportunities.
 
Refine and target your application materials to pertinent opportunities, being thoughtful in your approach.
 
Research salary trends in your field based on the location of the company/organization.
 
Follow-up with relevant contacts in your network to let them know you are graduating and interested in employment opportunities.