There are plenty of resources on campus while you’re enrolled as a student. There’s the Writing Center, The Center for Popular Music, a free and accessible 3D printer, and so much more. But what happens after you graduate?

Beka Crocket, director of the MTSU Career Development Center, describes it as “a place to help people prepare for life after formal education.” Crocket was gracious to sit down and talk to me about ways students can utilize the Career Center to help prepare for life after graduation.

“We talk about all the non-academic things… we do serve all students at all levels, as well as alumni. We really help with the full spectrum of securing opportunities outside of academics,” Crocket explained.  

What’s not to love about an on-campus resource that provides free food? (Photo: Nicole Alexander)

So, what does that look like? Located on the third floor of the KUC, the Career Development Center is a one-stop shop for everything you need to set yourself up for success. I used their resume review service this past fall semester to clean up a resume I had (very badly) typed up for an internship. Of course, all their services including this one are free, and I now have a resume that I can confidently send to any potential employer. However, the Center’s reach doesn’t just extend to resumes and cover letters. The staff at the Career Center really want to guide you through the process step-by-step to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your career.

Raiders Closet offers interview-ready outfits for students. (Photo: Nicole Alexander)

It’s no secret that college students are—more than likely—broke. You’ve got a great resume and an equally great cover letter, but you need clothes for the interview. No stress on your mind or your wallet is needed because the Career Development Center has a well-stocked clothes closet ready to go. They have everything you could possibly need to dress professionally for an interview, like blazers, dresses, men’s loafers, handbags, ties, and so much more.

(Photo: Nicole Alexander)

Other services they provide include Individual Career Advising, Job/Internship Search Resources and Professional Document Resources. Individual Career Advising will help you choose your major if you are undecided. The Career Centers also help students plan for grad school should they decide to take that route. Job/Internship Search Resources is exactly what it sounds like—resources to help you find a job or internship. One of the resources listed is Handshake. Handshake is an app where students can create profiles and get job recommendations based on their personal interests. You can follow companies you want to work for and be notified of any opportunities they might provide, such as internships. This is just one of the ways the Career Center can help you in your search for a job or an internship. They will also equip you with interview skills if you feel you’re not a very confident interviewer. The Professional Document Resources are what get your resume and cover letter reviewed, but they will also help with personal statements, curriculum vitae, and reference pages.

The idea of life after graduation can be intimidating. There will be many questions that can only be answered with time—including—”how am I going to get a job?” A one-stop shop for all things career-related, the MTSU Career Development Center will help you with almost anything you need. They will go step-by-step with you to ensure that 1.) you are confident about seizing a job opportunity and 2.) you are set up for success.

Visit the MTSU Career Development Center from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. It’s located in KUC 328.

Author Nicole Alexander is currently an undergraduate student in the Recording Industry Program in the College of Media and Entertainment.