Exploring Career Opportunities at Kutztown University
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, with its approximately 7,500 students across graduate and undergraduate programs, offers a variety of career paths and employment prospects. This article explores the different avenues available for individuals seeking job opportunities within and around the university, from student positions to professional roles, emphasizing the resources and strategies for successful job searching.
On-Campus Employment: Avenues for Students
Kutztown University provides numerous on-campus employment opportunities for its students, allowing them to gain valuable work experience while pursuing their education. The Residence Life, Housing, and Dining Services Office stands out as a significant employer, offering positions such as Community Assistants.
Residence Life, Housing, and Dining Services
The Residence Life Office, Housing, and Dining Services Office offers a variety of positions for undergraduate student staff members. Community Assistants work to build a community among the residents in their designated area of the building they are hired for. The Residence Life, Housing, and Dining Services Office works with Kutztown University's office of Human Resources for all levels of employment. Students who are selected to be hired as employees of the office and/or within the residence halls must complete employment, tax forms and background clearance applications with the Human Resources office located at 15187 Kutztown Road. Once this paperwork is complete, the student will receive a Work Authorization Number. For most positions, click on the above role you are interested in applying for to view the job description and find the application link.
Human Resources Requirements for Student Employment
Students who are selected to be hired as employees of the office and/or within the residence halls must complete employment, tax forms and background clearance applications with the Human Resources office located at 15187 Kutztown Road. Once this paperwork is complete, the student will receive a Work Authorization Number.
Clerical Support Positions
Kutztown University also offers clerical support positions requiring general office, telephone, and computer skills.
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Leveraging Resources for Job Seekers
Finding the right job requires a strategic approach. Kutztown University offers a range of resources to help students and alumni navigate the job market effectively.
Networking: Tapping into Your Contacts
One of the most effective job search strategies involves networking. Utilize all your contacts by informing them of your career goals and interests, as well as by reminding them of your skills and experience. Contact everyone: past teachers, family, friends, faculty, supervisors, and classmates. Interact face-to-face, over the phone or through social media. Click here for a Guide to Networking.
Digital Presence: Maintaining a Professional Image
In today's digital age, your online presence matters. Monitor how you present yourself digitally; clean up all your photos, postings and online profiles to reflect a professional image.
Handshake: A Centralized Online Resource
Handshake is the primary online resource for preparing and connecting students and alumni with employers. In addition to accessing job and internship postings, students can find employer profiles, career resources, and information about CDC job fairs, events, and workshops.
Career Development Center (CDC) Job Fairs
The CDC hosts three annual fairs for students and alumni to learn about full-time, part-time and seasonal positions as well as internship opportunities. This is your chance to shake hands, introduce yourself and converse with employers.
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External Job Search Strategies
Beyond the university's resources, several external strategies can enhance your job search efforts.
Online Job Boards
Many of these sites will require you to register. It is essential that you maintain your account and keep the information and your resume up-to-date.
Direct Contact with Employers
If not, consider contacting the human resources department or hiring manager to inquire about staffing needs. Be sure to communicate your skills and how you can contribute to their organization.
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations bring people with industry experience and interest together. Many professional associations also maintain their own job posting board. Look for links such as Job Opportunities, Position Announcements or Job Board.
Chamber of Commerce Sites
Chamber of Commerce Sites are a great way to learn more about employers in a particular geographic area that relates to your career interests. While all chamber of commerce sites differ in their layout, look for a Membership Directory or Business Directory, then search by business type or category to identify employers in your field of interest.
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Employment and Staffing Agencies
Some employers hire employment or staffing agencies to identify and screen potential candidates for both temporary and permanent positions. This can be a great way to get your foot in the door at a particular organization or within a particular field. Agencies generally work for employers and are paid a fee for their services. It is important to read and fully understand any agency contract before you sign it, making sure that you are not responsible for any fees.
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