Career Services and COVID-19
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the College of Health and Human Sciences Career Development Team has transitioned to remote/virtual services.
We recognize this is an unsettling and uncertain time for everyone and you likely have a lot of questions. First and foremost, please know that we care deeply about your health and well-being, in addition to your career and professional success.
Please read through the information and tips on this page related to career development during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Class to Career: A Workshop Series for Students Upcoming Events
Appointments and Mock Interviews
Virtual Career Chat
Chat with a CHHS Career Advocate to have your resume or cover letter reviewed or get quick career questions answered. If you have more in-depth career questions, please schedule an individual appointment via Handshake.
Scheduling Career Counseling Appointments
The College of Health and Human Sciences Career Development Team will continue to provide career counseling support and services to CHHS students including assistance with a resume, cover letter and personal statement writing; job/internship searching; interview preparation and practice (including mock interviews); career exploration, planning, and decision-making; graduate school exploration and application; networking and personal branding and any other career-related matters.
To schedule an appointment through Handshake, follow these steps:
- Use this link and log in to Handshake with eID and password
- Under “Choose a Category” select “College of Health and Human Sciences”
- Select an appointment type
- Choose an appointment day/time
If you have trouble finding appointment times that work with your schedule in Handshake, please contact Kara Johnson at kara.johnson@colostate.edu.
Appointments will be conducted by phone unless otherwise specified. If you prefer a video appointment, please indicate that in the appointment request. Video appointments will be conducted through Microsoft Teams.
Preparing for your Appointment
If you schedule an appointment to review documents of any kind, like a resume, cover letter, or personal statement, please send copies of the documents you would like reviewed via e-mail, along with any specific questions/concerns you have at least two business days before your scheduled appointment time, to allow your career counselor time to review. That way your appointment time can be used to discuss specific points of feedback and address your questions.
Even though your appointment will be remote, please prepare accordingly. If you have access to a computer, it is recommended that you be at a computer for your appointment, as we may be going over documents or viewing resources together.
Scheduling Mock Interviews
To schedule a mock interview through Handshake, follow these steps:
- Use this link and log in to Handshake with eID and password
- Under “Choose a Category” select “Mock Interview Program”
- Under “Choose an Appointment Type” select “Mock Interview Program (Health & Human Sciences)
- Choose an appointment day/time
If you have trouble finding appointment times that work with your schedule in Handshake, please contact Kara Johnson at kara.johnson@colostate.edu.
Mock interviews can be conducted via phone or video. Please indicate in the appointment request which format you would prefer. Video interviews will be conducted through Microsoft Teams.
Preparing for your Mock Interview
Please send a copy of your most current resume, along with a job description or graduate/professional school program description at least two business days in advance of your interview, so your interviewer can prepare appropriate questions.
Job Searching and Interviewing During COVID-19
Don’t stop your search!
While some employers may temporarily halt or delay hiring, others may be in dire need of workers. Many people will assume that companies aren’t hiring because of the health crisis, and therefore will stop job searching or not bother to start. If you continue with your job search, you’ll have a higher likelihood of success. Continue looking for and applying to positions that match your interests, skills and abilities, however, be patient and expect delays throughout the process.
Create a target list of employers that interest you.
Use sites like Linkedin or Idealist or simply do an internet search to identify and research specific companies/organizations related to your interests, passions and values (example: “human rights organizations in Denver, CO” or “healthcare companies in Austin, TX”) and to connect with current employees. Reaching out to people directly will generate exploratory discussions and informational interviews that may lead to opportunities, whether or not the organization has any publicly posted openings.
Tailor your resume and cover letter.
You should always do this, however, if you’re not already, be sure to update your resume and cover letter for every position you apply for. Use the job description to identify requirements, skills, and qualities the employer is looking for and mirror that language in your materials.
Interview Preparation
Be prepared to interview virtually. Many employers are continuing to hire, but they will likely ask you to do a virtual or phone interview instead of an in-person interview. If you’d like help preparing for interviews, schedule a mock interview with Kara Johnson.
Staying Positive
This is a stressful time, and while you may feel overwhelmed and confused, it can be empowering to take action in your job search and determine the best steps to take in your specific situation. If you’re not hearing back from employers, keep up your momentum by continuing to apply for jobs and reaching out to people at target organizations.
Taking time to practice patience and empathy for yourself and those around you will improve the way we navigate this challenging and uncertain time. People may be dealing with a variety of issues, so it’s important to remember what’s really important.
Maintain your mental and physical well-being by taking small actions like going for a walk, drinking plenty of water, and getting adequate sleep. Doing so will help you better focus at school or work, as well as in your job search.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out – we’re here to support you. Rams take care of Rams.