Western Carolina University is one of four higher education institutions in the state and among 48 in the nation selected as a “Career Development College of Distinction,” thanks in large part to the work of WCU’s Center for Career and Professional Development.

The recognition was made by Colleges of Distinction, a guidebook publisher and resource for guidance counselors and for parents and students in selecting a college or university. Criteria for the recognition includes how career services are introduced to new and transfer students, the accessibility to programs and services, a staff assessment and the relationship with employers.

WCU provides an extensive and comprehensive list of employment assistance, said Theresa Cruz Paul, director of the Center for Career and Professional Development. The regular scheduling of workshops, training and internship opportunities and linking students to the workforce is only part of the picture. Personal counseling and advice, along with building awareness of the center and high levels of community engagement, complete the picture, she said.

“Center staff have worked hard over recent years to update and adapt services to student, faculty and employer needs,” Cruz Paul said. “We are proud to work so collaboratively with campus and community partners to offer quality services to students who need this type of support.”

Center for Career and Professional Development services include resume writing, cover letters, mock interview sessions, job and internship searching, career counseling, vocational testing, preparation for graduate school applications, virtual workshops and webinars. Services are available to current undergraduate and graduate students, as well as WCU alumni.

By Geoff Cantrell