Faculty & Staff FAQ

What resources are available at the Career Development Office to Students/Alumni & Staff?
Our resources page offers information to use as tools for students. Click Here for the Job Resources Page

Are there any Assessments to help students?

Focus2 Assessments assists students with the following:

  • Search for occupations and create options based on your values, interests, skills, and personality
  • Obtain up-to-date information on hundreds of occupations
  • Determine education and training requirements for each occupation

More information can be located on our resource page.

How can I write a strong letter of recommendation?

Letter Requirements

  • Letters should indicate the candidate’s full name, preferably in the first paragraph.

  • Letters should be typed. Handwritten letters do not scan clearly.

  • Letters should be printed on university letterhead.

  • Letters require the writer’s signature. Please use blue or black ink as lighter colors do not scan well.

Refrain from comments regarding candidate's race, color, gender, religion, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, medical condition, or political affiliations, beliefs or activities.

For Graduate School: Indicate how long you have known the applicant and in what capacity. Graduate schools are primarily interested in recommendations that come from professors who know the applicant and their academic work as well as from employers. The more the recommendation reflects real knowledge of the applicant and their performance, the more useful the letter is to the graduate school admissions committees and, thus, to the applicant. The letter should address the following questions:

  • Knowledgeable characteristics: How well does the applicant learn and retain information? What is your assessment of the applicant's skill in analysis and logic? Does the applicant show evidence of creativity? Has the applicant's academic record been affected by special circumstances such as work, social or academic background?

  • Understanding in field of study: What is the applicant's depth of knowledge in the field? Does he/she know how to use the methods in the field of study or have the experience in research?

  • Ability to communicate: Is the applicant an effective writer? Is the applicant articulate in oral expression?

  • Industry and self-discipline: To what extent is the applicant persistent, efficient and motivated? Is the applicant able to work independently?

  • Potential for graduate study: Does the candidate have any specialized skill or studies in the field? How does this applicant rate with other candidates who have been evaluated?

Career Development Office