Career Services officials are introducing a new program that connects students with potential employers.
Handshake is a program that allows students to create a profile and matches them with job openings fit for their interests and experience. When it launches Dec. 11, it will replace the current program OCU Works.
“It’s going to transform college recruiting,” said Tiffany Smith, director of career services. “I worked with it at my previous employment. Students love it at other campuses. It will provide a plethora of opportunities.”
Handshake is currently used at more than 500 universities. More than 250,000 employers post job listings on the site, which is also available as an Android and iOS app. Once it launches, current and past OCU students will be able to log into Handshake using their BlueLink login information.
Some university departments will use the site for open jobs on campus, but its main purpose will be to connect students to potential employers outside of campus. Students will also be able to use the site to set up appointments with career services.
“It should be an easier system for our school to use,” said Jacqueline Bennet, acting senior and student professional for career services. “Which is really good because OCU Works can be kind of a challenge to figure out. To register an account, they have to approve your school email, and when you apply for a job, sometimes you can apply through OCU Works, and sometimes the job posting is just on there and you’re supposed to email them, but with Handshake, it’s more streamlined.”
Career Services officials are planning a kickoff event for Dec. 11. Smith said launching it at the end of the semester will give the students the winter break to become familiar with the program so they can bring back any questions they might have at the start of the spring semester.
“It’s leaps and bounds easier to learn, access and use,” Smith said. “We’re thrilled to provide this opportunity for students to give them more resources.”
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