Central launches a new path to career readiness

More than 100 Central Connecticut State University faculty and staff members gathered Aug. 5 in Memorial Hall for the inaugural Central Career Launch supervisor training session. Central Career Launch is designed to help students make the most of their campus jobs by connecting their day-to-day work with career development, mentorship, and the skills employers value. Through online modules, in-person workshops, and professional training, students will have opportunities to develop real-world skills while working on campus.

Supervisors play a central role in that experience. Through regular check-ins and semesterly assessments, they will help students reflect on what they are learning, identify areas for growth, and discuss how their work contributes to the Central community.

“For many of our students, the people who supervise them become some of the most influential mentors they encounter during their time at Central,” President Toro told attendees. “You model professionalism, offer encouragement, provide honest feedback, and help students discover strengths they may not yet see in themselves.”

The program incorporates experiential learning, mentorship and the NACE Career Readiness Competencies, giving students intentional opportunities to build the professional skills and confidence they will carry into their careers. Students will also connect directly with Central’s career development services.

A key feature of Career Launch is the Career Launch Card, a one-page student talent profile that brings together a student’s academic standing, work and internship experience, leadership roles, certifications, and volunteer hours. The card also includes a QR code to the student’s LinkedIn profile.

The next Career Launch supervisor training session will take place Wednesday, Sept. 16. Details and registration information will be shared with faculty and staff soon!