Careers in Action: A Semester of Opportunity

This spring, the College of Humanities proved that career success isn't just a possibility. It's a priority.

With four dynamic workshops and three immersive employer events, the semester was packed with hands-on opportunities that bridged the gap between classroom learning and real-world impact. From mastering interviews to negotiating salaries and forging meaningful industry connections, students were empowered to take ownership of their professional journeys.

Job and Internship Searching

At the start of the semester, Dan Moseson, Career Coach for Humanities and Cameron Vakilian, Association Director for Internships, led an interactive job and internship searching session. Students learned both traditional methods, like using Handshake and other job boards, and lesser known but powerful strategies like leveraging informational interviews and tapping into professional associations. Students gave examples of careers they are searching for, and Dan and Cameron gave a simulation of how to go about the search.

“The workshop offered practical advice that I can implement right now in my internship and job hunt,” said Camilla Shin. “By acting proactively and strategically, I’m confident I can better prepare myself for the increasingly competitive job market and secure opportunities within my field.”

The session was recorded and featured on the INSPIRE podcast, extending its impact beyond the event itself.

Interview Techniques

Another standout workshop was on interview preparation. Giovanna Percontino, Career Coach for Communication and Cameron Vakilian led students through a series of effective interview strategies and techniques. Students were able to practice these methods, like telling compelling stories to highlight key strengths, and how to ask good questions at the end of an interview.

Salary Negotiation Workshops

The final workshops tackled a topic that’s both crucial and often nerve-wracking for new professionals: salary negotiation. This two-part session was presented in collaboration with U Career Success and led by Denise DeCoite, Director for Community and Corporate Outreach and Giovanna Percontino. Students dove deep into strategies for advocating for fair pay, whether for a new job or an internal promotion. The training addressed common myths, real-life scenarios, and tailored guidance on how to stay professional and practical in these conversations.

Meaningful Employer Connections

Beyond workshops, students had the chance to connect directly with employers in settings that brought the professional world to life.

At the midpoint of the semester, students were invited to tour the ABC4 studio, networking with reporters and staff. They witnessed a live broadcast in action, gaining insight into what it’s really like to work in a fast-paced media environment.

Later in the semester, the college hosted an employer meet-and-greet with Equality Utah giving students a behind-the-scenes look at nonprofit careers. Development Director Rosanne Simpson spoke about internship paths and long-term roles in advocacy, development, and nonprofit leadership, an eye-opener for many students considering impact-driven careers.

One of the hallmark employer events of the spring semester was the Graduation Extravaganza, where over 30 employers, including the Peace Corps, Utah Community Action, and Brighter Strides ABA to name a few, set up shop at the Alumni House. The event was not only a chance to meet and network with these employers (who commonly hire recent graduates), but it was an opportunity for students to pick up their graduation cords, seek advice for their career search, and celebrate! In collaboration with the College of Social and Behavioral Science and the School for Cultural and Social Transformation, the event gave students a valuable head start as they prepared to take their next steps beyond campus.

Career Engagement for Every Student

Many of these events were accessible both in person and online, ensuring flexible access for busy students. Several were also embedded into the Humanities Career Success course (HUM 3960), giving students a structured path to credit-bearing career development.

In Fall 2025, the college plans to have more workshops to help students with topics around strength assessment, graduate school/program search, and collaborating with other colleagues for projects and resume development. As we look ahead to the coming academic year, one thing is clear: the College of Humanities is deeply invested in the success of its students. From career coaching and experiential learning to employer engagement and real-world skill-building, we are shaping futures, one opportunity at a time.