Career Prep Academy

The Career Prep Academy is a career exploration support program for undergraduate students at any stage of their career development, from undecided and internship seekers to graduating students ready to start careers or apply to post-grad programs. This program was designed with first-generation and income eligible students in mind.

The goals of the Career Prep Academy are:

  • To provide students space for self-reflection and evaluation for their career growth, transferrable skills, and personal branding
  • To encourage students to reflect on their future careers and understand how to gain experiences related to their interests
  • To understand best practices for networking, interviewing, and development of professional documents
  • To understand and be able to navigate University and Career Center resources to support continued career development and decision-making

The Career Prep Academy offers three unique levels to best serve students where they are. Students can start at Level 1 and return to complete the other courses or start at the level best for them. If you plan to complete multiple levels, it is recommended to complete them in sequential order.

The Academy lasts 8 weeks, with classes meeting for 50 minutes per week. Courses are offered in a hybrid model, meaning some weeks require in-person attendance. Upon successful completion, students are invited to a Celebratory Networking Event and given a $200 book award.

Level 1: Where do you want to go?

Level 1 is for students wishing to explore.

Level 1 is designed for students who are unsure of what they want for their future careers. They may be undecided in their majors or questioning what type of career best suits them. Activities at this level include aptitude tests, value sorting, meeting with a career consultant, and resume building.

Level 2: How do you get there?

Level 2 will help students connect with opportunities.

Level 2 is designed for students who have a good sense of what they want in their future careers but are unsure of how to get there. Students at this level can expect to complete activities such as meeting with an experiential learning consultant, mock interviewing, creating cover letters, using social media effectively, and networking.

Level 3: What do you do when you arrive?

Level 3 is all about setting you up to achieve.

Level 3 is designed to prepare students for their careers after Pitt. Students can expect to learn how to continue their professional development and make the most out of their future roles, whether that is in graduate school or the workforce. Activities at this level include negotiating, mentorship, and financial habits.

Student Testimonials

Ryan Williams

Class of 2028

Major: Human Resources Management 

Minors: Economics, French

I participated in the Pitt Career Prep Academy to enhance my professional skills and prepare for my career journey. The program equipped me with essential tools like resume building, networking, and interview strategies. Through these experiences, I gained confidence and clarity in pursuing my goals. My favorite part was the incredible opportunities the academy provided, which directly helped me land my first internship-an experience that has been pivotal in my career development.
Student Testimonials

Zoey Hoover

Class of 2028

Major: Political Science

Participating in the Career Prep Academy was instrumental in helping me refine my resume and leverage the vast array of resources available here at Pitt. Through the program, I was able to connect with alumni and gain valuable insights into my chosen field. I highly recommend this program to students seeking to enhance their networking opportunities, develop critical interviewing skills, and unlock a wealth of career-focused knowledge and support!
Student Testimonials

Kam Chan

Class of 2027

Major: Industrial Engineering

I joined the Career Prep Academy to kickstart my career path and learn to navigate the job searching process. The program taught me how to use job search sites, interview using the STAR method, and compare and negotiate internship offers. I gained valuable skills in professional communication, negotiating offers, and following up after interviews to increase my chances of success. My favorite part was practicing persuasive arguments during interactive assignments, especially for offer negotiations.
A photo of a student with short dark hair and glasses in a grey tshirt.
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Questions?

For more information on the schedule and registration, visit Career Central.

Unsure which level is best for you? Have questions about the Career Prep Academy?

Contact Program Coordinator, Dr. Mary Ramsey at mary.ramsey@pitt.edu or email careerprepacademy@pitt.edu.

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FAQs

No. You can start at the level that best fits your needs.

Yes, but not in the same semester. You can return in a future semester to take the next level.

Yes. If you plan to take more than 1 level, you should complete them in order.

No. The Career Prep Academy is open to all undergraduates at Pitt.
*Level 3 is only available to juniors and seniors.

Yes, but first-generation students and Provost Scholars get priority when registering.

No, not at this time.

Nothing! The Career Prep Academy is free.

Not only will you get expert help from Career Center staff, but if you complete a level of the Academy you can get: Pitt swag, OCC credit, a $200 book award, and an exclusive invitation to a networking brunch.