Who You Are

The University Advising and Career Development Center (UACDC) at Eastern Michigan University are deeply committed to understanding and showing compassion for your unique story, as well as those of our alumni, faculty, and employers. We engage in staff development, facilitate conversations, and learn from others who promote awareness, open-mindedness, and confidence within our staff. We encourage social awareness and mutual respect in our work with students, faculty, staff, and employers.

Our goal is to create a campus community where all members are kind, open, and conscientious citizens. We recognize that not every student has inherited the social and cultural capital necessary for upward mobility. We provide support and connection by providing the community and resources to ensure your career success. 

Equity Affinity groups 

These groups are designed to enhance community and networking among members of underserved student populations with shared identity.  Affinity groups can foster community and inclusion through connecting peers and mentors. Additionally, these groups can elevate understanding to the broader campus community of a marginalized group’s perspectives and concerns, and advocate for programs and events to meet the needs of underserved student populations. 

As unique individuals, students may have characteristics and identities that intersect with several affinity groups. We recommend that you explore/research an affinity group that you identify with so that you can network and explore helpful resources.

  • Student Athletes Expand dropdown
    Swoop
     
    Swoop

     

    Balancing rigorous academic work with athletics and maintaining NCAA eligibility is challenging enough. Thinking about your career development as a student athlete can also require extra assistance. From exploring career options to finding internships and employment  that fit into your already packed schedule we’re here to offer help and support!

    Career Development Resources For Athletes

    After the Game Career Center: The NCAA supports today’s student-athletes on the field, in the classroom and continues to support former student-athletes by helping them gain employment in their chosen profession at all stages of their professional career.

    Athlete Network: Athlete Network is the #1 engagement platform for current and alumni athletes to build a professional community.

  • First Generation Students  Expand dropdown
    First generation students
     
    First generation students

     

    We understand starting higher education as a first-generation student can be incredibly challenging. This affinity group is designed to provide resources, and networking opportunities tailored to your needs to help you gain the most from your college experience as a first-generation college student. 

    Who is first-gen?

    Depending on who you’re asking, the definition of first-gen students can be a bit different. 

    This affinity group is for: 

    Students whose parents did not complete a 4-year degree 
    Students who lived with and received support from only one parent/guardian who did not complete a 4-year degree

    Career Resources for First Generation Students 

    First In The Family: This resource provides advice and information about college from the perspective of first generation college students. 

    I’m First This site allows you to view video stories from first-gen students, read student blogs and discover colleges that have special programs that support first-gen students.

    Mentor Collective at EMU : International mentoring community for the students at EMU 

  • Graduate Students  Expand dropdown
    Graduate students
     
    Graduate students

     

    The University Advising and Career Development Center provides a wide range of services and resources to support the unique and complex needs of EMU University graduate students. From exploring a wide variety of career options, to helping you leverage your advanced skills and subject expertise, to crafting and implementing targeted job search strategies, our Career staff will foster your growth and professional development.

    Career Resources for Graduate Students

    Inside Higher Ed: The leading source for the latest news, analysis, and services for the entire higher education community

    ImaginePhD: This is a free online career exploration and planning tool for PhD students and postdoctoral scholars in the humanities and social sciences.

  • International Students  Expand dropdown
    International Students
     
    International Students

     

    As an international student it may be hard to connect with other college students navigating experiences much different from yours or you may face challenges connecting due to different cultural norms.  You may also be searching for someone from your home country to provide familiarity and understanding to your new environment.  This affinity group helps connect you to others who can relate to your experience, as well as provide resources to assist you as you explore career interests and prepare for your future. 

    Career Development Resources For International Students

    Interstride: This resource provides amazing resources for international students including visa and immigration support, networking and mentorship communities and job and internship posts from employers who hire international students. 

    UnitedOPT: This is one of the fast-leading Job Portals for OPT Jobs in the USA. We offer a complete career jump-start for International Candidates who are looking for CPT and OPT Jobs and all other Fresh Graduates. 

    My Visa Jobs: This resource identifies employment opportunities for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the U.S. and Canada. 

  • Low Income Working Class Students  Expand dropdown
    Low income students
     
    Low income students

     

    The cost of higher education is a major deterrent for many ambitious individuals that are trying to reach their potential. You may have serious concerns about the return on investment and debt load that you carry after graduation which is completely understandable. The fact is, higher education should be a way to advance yourself and improve your income potential and if you have struggled in the past to make ends meet, our staff want to ensure that you can change the narrative through your education and value that it brings future employers. We want to provide you the support and resources to make well-informed career and financial decisions. 

    Career Development Resources For Low Income/Working Class Students

    Dress For Success: This is an international not-for-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

    Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority : The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) operates the public transit system for the greater Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti area. TheRide provides reliable, safe, affordable transportation services.

  • LGBTQIA+ Students  Expand dropdown
    LGBTQIA+ Students 
     
    LGBTQIA+ Students 

     

    We’re committed to providing information and resources to help you navigate your career development as a student identifying as LGBTQIA+. We are here to support you and answer your questions about how to address topics like identity disclosure and finding LGBTQIA+ friendly employers throughout your job search and in the workplace. 

    Career Development Resources for LGBTQIA+ Students

    Awesomely Authentic:  This resource provides career-coaching, and inclusion organization that focuses on the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ people and the intersectionality of their identities as they navigate the milestones of choosing a college to attend, searching for that perfect job, or making moves up the corporate ladder. 

    Out & Equal: Out & Equal is the premier organization working exclusively on LGBTQ workplace equality.

    Out In Tech: Out in Tech is the world’s largest non-profit community of LGBTQ+ tech leaders.

  • Religious Affiliation Students  Expand dropdown
    Religious students
     
    Religious students

     

    We understand that your spiritual beliefs are an integral part of your identity. It’s important to not just have your faith in alignment with your career, but to feel as though the opportunities you’re seeking respect and accommodate to this as well. No matter what your religious beliefs are, knowing how to navigate your career and workplace with respect to this is an important goal for the UACDC. 

    Career Development Resources For Religious Affiliated Students  

    Religious Discrimination Protection Laws

    Religious Garb and Grooming In the Workplace Laws 

    Professional Associations & Faith Groups

  • Students of Color  Expand dropdown
    Students of Color
     
    Students of Color

     

    We are deeply committed to helping our students of color connect to individuals, groups, and resources that will enhance their career growth. This affinity group provides opportunities to learn from others’ experiences, share useful resources, and be informed about helpful events on campus to help you grow and thrive. We have a variety of resources for Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American/Indigenous, Asian American, and biracial students.

    Career Development Resources for Students of Color

    Diversity Inc:  DiversityInc's mission is to bring education and clarity to the business benefits of diversity. They offer many fantastic resources and publications about companies who are doing great work in hiring diverse candidates and important company initiatives to promote equity. 

    IMDiversity:  Where career opportunities and diversity connect. 

    Diversity Employers: This is a hub of information and resources regarding graduate/professional schools, industry reports and studies, diversity issues and extracurricular activities relevant to students and job seekers. 

  • Students with Visible and Invisible Disabilities  Expand dropdown
    Students with Visible and Invisible Disabilities 
     
    Students with Visible and Invisible Disabilities 

     

    As a student with a visible or invisible disability, you may have additional questions as you think about entering the workplace. This group is designed to help students to enhance their knowledge about laws and available resources relevant to their unique needs. We are committed to help you develop confidence to showcase your value to employers regardless of any disability you may have.

    Career Development Resources For Students with Visible & Invisible Disabilities

    Lime Connect: Lime Connect represents the largest network of high-potential university students and professionals - including veterans - who happen to have disabilities in the world.

    Upbound at Work: Great companies deserve exceptional employees. Upbound brings those companies and the right employees together. 

    Michigan Rehabilitation Services: Various types of pre-employment transition services are available in Michigan to students with disabilities who are age 14-26 and accepted or enrolled in secondary or postsecondary education.  

    Notable National Employers Hiring Neurodiverse Individuals: Many companies, from large corporations to small businesses, have developed successful neurodiversity hiring initiatives that are helping to improve their bottom lines and increase the employment rates of people with disabilities. 

    Companies with Neurodiversity Recruiting Programs: We need a diverse workforce with special talents and thought processes to help us solve future problems and progress humanity. Here are a list of companies who try to recruit great talent from the neurodiverse population. 

    Emerging Leaders Internship Program: This program is for college students with disabilities, and is offered through the National Business & Disability Council (NBDC) at The Viscardi Center. This highly competitive program places undergraduate and graduate college students with disabilities in fulfilling internships nationwide that provide them with meaningful leadership development and networking opportunities. 

  • Transfer/Non-Traditional Students  Expand dropdown
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    transfer students

     

    Starting at a university as a transfer student or one who is returning to school after a period of time can be challenging. Adjusting to a new environment and finding the right resources to support you at this next level are key to ensuring your success. In the UACDC, we work with a diverse population of students who have attended other institutions or are returning to school after a period of time. We want to ensure your transition is smooth and you are provided support from now until graduation.

    Career Development Resources For Transfer & Non-Traditional Students 

    Tau Sigma: This is the National Transfer Honor Society Chapter at EMU. 

    National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students: Supporting transfer student success through education, research, and advocacy

    Learn How To Become: Resources for those returning to school. 

  • Veteran Students  Expand dropdown
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    veteran student

     

    We value the commitment and sacrifice of our incredible veterans and are driven to help you translate your further your education, and translate your military experience into value add for potential employers. On this page, you will find resources and up-to-date information relevant to those with military experience. The Fleishman Center for Career and Professional Development is thankful for your service and commitment to our country, and our staff is here to support your education and career goals! 

    Career Development Resources For Veteran Students

    My Next Move For Veterans: A starting point for members of the military who served our country and our now transitioning to civilian life. 

    CareerOneStop For Veterans: Veteran and Military Transition Center is a one-stop website for employment, training, and financial help after military service.

    Veterans Employment Toolkit: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a great collections of employment resources. 

  • Women Students  Expand dropdown
    women students
     
    women students

     

    As a woman, you may face challenges along your unique career journey. We want to help you stay informed about navigating the world of work as a woman and find connections with individuals who share similar experiences.  This group is meant to provide career development resources that address the unique needs of women as well as those who’s identities intersect with other affinity groups such as women of color and first generation college women. 

    Career Development Resources For Women Students

    Career Contessa:  This is a hub of career resources that helps working women be more fulfilled, healthy, and successful at work.

    InHerSight: This resource uses data to help women find and improve companies where they can achieve their goals.

    Diversity Woman Career Website:  A multi-platform professional and executive leadership development enterprise that advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion, our nationally-recognized portfolio is comprised of three-core areas: Publications, Leadership Development Academy Workshops, and National Conferences.  

    Society For Women Engineers:  This organization provides resources to help women engineers have a strong voice in the industry. 

    Girls Who Code: Building the World's largest pipeline of female engineers. 

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