Micro-credentials for Current Students

Modules are offered in an online format and take approximately 1 hour each to complete.
Each module is comprised of a mini-lecture, reflection, practical application and takeaways.
Interactive presentations, quizzes, and reading suggestions are built-in and are designed to complement all learning styles and leadership experiences.

1. Building the Foundations of Leadership
   Understand the current and historical theories and concepts of leadership. Apply leadership theories and concepts to real-life and simulated situations. Understand the difference between Managers vs. Leaders Analyze and reflect upon their own leadership style and what areas they may want to further develop.
2. Leading Change
   Students will be familiar with tools for developing a Change (or Growth) Mindset (5 Fingers) and students will understand Kotter's 8 steps for change management.
3. Communicating Effectively through Conflict
   Students will be familiar with what triggers the emotional response to conflict and strategies to manage in self and others.
4. Mentoring for Leaders 
   Students will identify the skills, knowledge and experience they would like to learn more about and determine what type of mentorship would help them reach their leadership goals. Learn how to engage in mentorship as both a mentee and a mentor. Learn how to leverage mentorship opportunities to develop leadership skills.
5. Diversity and Global Citizenry
   Students will evaluate diverse perspectives, and navigate the significance that comes with multiple view points in relation to cultural diversity, global unity and decision-making processes. Apply, identify and demonstrate skills that enable intercultural communication and knowledge, impactful leadership, self awareness and effective listening. Students will work inclusively to develop beneficial practices of educating one's self and co-creating an environment that explores and appreciates difference of others. Examine and reflect on the importance of inclusivity in leadership with the purpose of making progress toward personal goals.
6. Innovation and Creativity
   Students will learn to value creativity and innovation in the learning and leadership process. To gain understanding and process the difference between creativity and innovation and how they are connected. To be able to apply practices to re-awaken and increase one's ability to be creative and innovative.
    

“Ready, Set, Work” is a 5-week micro-credential program designed to equip upcoming and recent graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to enter the workplace upon completion.

Participants attend in-person sessions for 5 weeks, gaining skills beyond regular Career Services workshops and receiving direct guidance from Career Consultants. Students are required to complete pre-work online in preparation for synchronous class time. They will hone and develop their interpersonal skills, networking abilities, and confidence by participating in group informational interviews with professionals. Additionally, they will enhance their critical thinking and collaboration skills by examining case studies in detail with their peers. Participants will learn new ways to improve their resumes, practice interview techniques, develop strategies for workplace success, and engage in networking opportunities. Weekly submissions will allow participants to practice what they have learned.

Module 1 – Who Am I? 
Participants will identify their core values, key skills, and career goals to articulate a job search goal for after graduation and recognize the skills they bring to the workplace. If they are unsure of their career goals, additional resources and support will be provided. Participants will also write a professional email introduction.

Module 2 – Self-Marketing 
Participants will bring their resumes to the session and have the opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback directly from Career Consultants. They will create accomplishment statements and skills statements to enhance their resumes, develop an elevator pitch introduction, and practice introducing themselves in a professional context.

Module 3 – Interviews 
Participants will discuss the most challenging interview questions and strategies for answering them, with a focus on behavioral interview questions. Each learner will create “Situation-Action-Result

Module 4 – Teamwork and Workplace Expectations 
Participants will review case studies of common workplace issues and discuss solutions. Workplace expectations and strategies for succeeding in a new job will be covered. Learners will complete self-assessments of their personality and teamwork style to enhance self-awareness of their interactions with others. They will participate in a teamwork simulation activity with their peers and reflect on the process and their role within the team.

Module 5 – Networking 
Participants will learn the value of networking gaining insights into how meaningful connections can support career growth and development.   They will be encouraged to attend a networking event to apply their skills in a real-world setting. Through this experience, participants will deepen their understanding of the value of networking, and the role mentorship plays in building a successful career.

As a follow-up to the program, students are provided with additional resources such as meeting  1-1 with their Career Consultant, attending additional Career Services programming, and signing up for the InSPIRE Mentorship program.