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 has been specifically designed for first-generation and income eligible students at Pitt.

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 Provost 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 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 Brunch and given a $200 book award.

Level 1: Where do you want to go?

Level 1 is for students wishing to explore their interests and examine their vision for their future.

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 exercise their skills and extend their potential.

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, creating cover letters, using social media, and networking.

Level 3: What do you do when you arrive?

Level 3 is for students to learn how to execute their skills and excel in their futures.

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. Activities at this level include negotiating, mentorship, and building a portfolio.

Questions?

For more information, visit Career Central.

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

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

Two women in black suits speaking.

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.

Yes, but remember that first-generation and Pell-eligible students 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.