Dayton Business Journal: Wright State set to open new Career Hub in Student Union

A new hub for collegiate students looking for professional guidance is set to open in the new year. This will advance its motto of “we begin with the end in mind.”

Wright State University will soon debut its new Career Hub in the center of the Student Union.

Currently, the Career Services operates in a decentralized model, with all career consultants placed in their respective colleges. In higher education institutions, career consultants are staff members that help students with their career and academic choices, often helping them find jobs and internships during and after their academic studies.

Services included with the guidance of a career consultant include exploring careers within one’s major, building a resumé or CV, mock interviews, networking with professionals and applying to graduate school.

Wright State has six consultants currently, with one designated to each of its colleges, including the College of Health, Education and Human Services, the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Science and Mathematics and so forth.

Once the new Career Center is established, it will combine each consultant under one roof, making it a one-stop shop for students and prospective employers.

The Career Center — to be known as the Career Hub upon opening — will reside in what was called the Pathfinder Lounge, a space available for use by WSU students, faculty and off-campus groups. The space is equipped with a piano, fireplace and comfortable seating options.

WSU will renovate the space — along with three conference rooms nearby — and transform it into the 5,700-square-foot Career Hub. Planned features for the space include individual advising offices for each consultant; “huddle rooms” for students or employers looking for a private space to conduct interviews; a photo booth for students to take free, professional headshots; and a career lab.

The career lab will be staffed by peer career coaches — students who assist other students with career tips — and serve as an area for those looking for quick help with tasks such as resumé building, interview preparation and more.

Two large conference rooms will be constructed that seat about 22 each and will be used by employers looking to have information sessions with small groups.

While the space is prepped for a large-scale renovation, certain features belonging to the Pathfinder Lounge will remain, including the fireplace and a designated lounge area. These facets will enhance the space and provide for a “swanky library vibe.”

“This really is the nexus of where students meet the workforce,” said Kim Gilliam, director of career education and success. “It is designed specifically to feel a little different and not feel like you’re in other student areas on campus. This is a place where hopefully employers and students feel comfortable.”

Construction on the Career Hub began in fall with the center prepped to open in January.

Read the article at bizjournals.com/dayton.