CALS Professional Development: Five Tips to Get You Ahead

Written by Cat Cropsey, junior microbiology and cell science major

When it comes to cultivating your professional skills, it’s easy to get lost in all the options UF has to offer. Luckily, our very own College of Agricultural and Life Sciences has made these resources easy and accessible to all their students. Here are five of these college resources:

#5 Solutions Seminars
Three times each semester, CALS hosts a solutions seminar focused on a different aspect of professionalism. These events allow you to mingle with fellow students, meet industry professionals, and win some cool prizes too. This month, topics include preparing your elevator pitch and professional networking. Free professional headshots will be taken, so dress to impress. Mark your calendar for Jan. 25.

#4 Coffee & Careers
Want to tune up your resume, but don’t want the hassle of making an appointment? On select dates, CALS allows you to drop by the collaboration room (room 2025) in McCarty Hall D and have your resume reviewed on your own time. This relaxed event provides coffee and refreshments, one-on-one guidance for resume revisions, and the opportunity to meet industry professionals. The next Coffee & Careers will take place on Jan. 23.

#3 CALS Career Expo
Just in time for graduation and summer internships, CALS hosts an annual Career Expo each spring. The UF J. Wayne Reitz Union’s grand ballroom is filled with employers that are eager to meet you and see what you have to offer. Companies like Driscoll’s, Dow and Syngenta are just a few of the big names registered this year. Arrive in your professional attire and with your freshly-reviewed resume. This all-day event will take place Feb. 8, so be sure not to miss it!

#2 CALS Ambassadors
The CALS Ambassador program is the best way to get involved in the college and develop your professional skills. From showcasing our university for potential students to working alongside Dean Turner, the CALS Ambassador program allows students to improve their professionalism and network. At the annual training, the team turns their weaknesses to strengths through a series of workshops and professional speakers from the college. Applications to become a CALS Ambassador are due Feb. 20.

#1 Sigma Alpha/Alpha Gamma Rho
Sigma Alpha Sorority and Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity are professional organizations made up of women and men interested in pursuing a career in agriculture, natural resources, the environment, and life sciences. These two organizations allow you not only to boost your professionalism, but create lifelong relationships. Through these organizations, members participate in scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service activities relating to their common interest in agriculture. Sigma Alpha and Alpha Gamma Rho will both be hosting their recruitment week Jan. 22 – 26.

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Posted: January 22, 2018


Category: Professional Development, UF/IFAS Teaching
Tags: Career Services, Leadership, Professional Development


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