Career Development: University of Illinois Chicago empowers online students with robust career resources

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is committed to providing quality education and career support. With a campus-wide initiative to extend support beyond the traditional classroom setting creating a highly interactive and student-centered online space, UIC ensures that online students receive the same career resources and guidance as on-campus students. 

UIC Career Services supports students and alumni through their career development and job search resources. The office provides virtual one-on-one advising, workshops, and events. Career advisors connect students with job openings and experts in the field to help them successfully navigate the competitive job market. The UIC Business Career Center and UIC Engineering Career Center also offer additional career support which enhances networking opportunities and job assistance for online students in these colleges. 

Carol Coston, Assistant Director of UIC Career Services, emphasizes that online students, no matter their academic level, have the same opportunities as on-campus students. “When working with online students versus on-campus students, our process is no different,” said Coston. “There are a variety of virtual workshops, career fairs, and employer information sessions that are tailored to our online undergraduate and graduate students.” 

Learn more about the different career resources provided by UIC Career Services. 

Handshake 

UIC students and alumni benefit from Handshake, an online career management system that helps with job searches, internships, and career development. Utilized by over a thousand universities and colleges across the U.S., Handshake is a central hub for university events, job listings, and virtual appointments. With over 900,000 companies in its database, the online management system connects jobseekers with employers and gives users the opportunity to explore company profiles and access key contacts. 

Virtual Workshops and Webinars at the University of Illinois Chicago

UIC Career Services hosts a series of informative online workshops and webinars on various career-related topics. These sessions cover essential skills such as networking strategies, job market trends, and industry-specific insights. UIC ensures that online learners have access to the latest information and trends relevant to their respective fields. Examples of virtual workshops include: 

• Mastering Interview Skills Workshop: Students can learn helpful strategies to prepare for interviews. 
• Navigating a Career Fair Workshop: Before attending a career fair, students can learn tips and strategies to chat with employers. 
• Career Launch Initiative (CLI): Students can join an interactive 4-week program to kickstart their career journey. 

Virtual Appointments with UIC Career Advisors

UIC Career Services provide virtual career advising sessions for online students to connect with experienced career advisors. These sessions are designed to address individual career goals, work on resumes and cover letters, and assess skills and interests. Online students can schedule virtual or phone appointments with a UIC Career Services advisor through Handshake. Additionally, virtual walk-in hours are available every Thursday from 2-4 pm CT. 

Networking Opportunities for Online Students

Building a professional network is a crucial aspect of career development. UIC Career Services recognizes the importance of connecting students with industry professionals. The office offers employers opportunities to meet and recruit students at virtual events including career fairs and employer information sessions. Companies that have participated in UIC events include Target, Goldman Sachs, Caterpillar Inc., and Deloitte.  

“Employers from a wide range of industries are anxious to hire UIC students and alumni,” said Coston. “As a recognized minority serving institution, employers are drawn to the diversity of the UIC student body.” 

Students taking online courses have access to a diverse range of like-minded professionals with whom to make connections and build relationships that can lead to many professional opportunities. UIC Career Services staff, professors, alumni, and classmates are all resources able to offer information about potential companies and contacts. Networking opportunities help bridge the gap between online students and the broader professional community. 

UIC Online Degree Programs 

UIC is dedicated to offering career support to online students. By leveraging technology, UIC ensures that online learners have access to various career development services, empowering them to achieve their professional goals.  

“UIC is a well-recognized university with a long history of providing quality courses and programs,” said Coston. “Our faculty and staff bring extensive expertise and are committed to ensuring our education and resources are convenient for all students, especially our students who are working professionals.” 

Individuals interested in advancing their education and leveraging UIC’s career resources should check out the UIC Online programs. Take the next step in your career with an online bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or graduate certificate. Explore the flexible online programs and talk to an enrollment specialist today.