Next Steps for Seniors: Information and Resources to Support Post-Grad Plans

As graduation approaches, many seniors find themselves asking, “What’s next?”

Whether they have a clear path in mind or are still exploring options, the Career and Community Engagement Center (CCEC) is here to support seniors as they take those next steps. Through the Career Coaching initiative, seniors have access to one-on-one career coaching appointments, exclusive senior programming, and essential resources to help them navigate those first several steps of life after Whitman.

The Career Coaching Initiative: Look Ahead and Launch

Throughout their time at Whitman, career coaches provide structured support for students to explore future career paths, build experience, connect with mentors and refine their post-grad goals. Now, in year four, seniors have support to look ahead and get ready to launch.

With personalized guidance from a dedicated Career Coach, seniors can:

• Develop a strategic plan for their job search or graduate school applications.
• Explore and identify future fellowships or grants to support continued study or exploration.
• Fine-tune their resume, cover letter and interview skills.
• Tap into networking opportunities with Whitman alumni and industry professionals.
• Gain access to valuable career-building resources and events.

No matter where students are in their process, their career coach is available to help them navigate the journey ahead.

Explore the Next Steps Career Coaching Website

To make career planning even easier, the Next Steps for Seniors website serves as a centralized hub for essential resources, guides, and information tailored specifically for graduating seniors. Students will find expert advice on resume writing, interview preparation, last-mile skill building, networking and more.

Employ some of the programs and resources built for seniors

The CCEC has curated a range of programs and resources to help students prepare for their next steps (check out the CCEC Events calendar for more details).

• Career Coaching Drop-In Hours: Need a quick resume review? Have questions about job searching or grad school applications? Senior Drop-In Hours provide an easy way to get expert advice without an appointment. Just stop by during designated times for on-the-spot coaching and feedback.
  • Tuesday, March 11 | 3–5 p.m. | in Cleveland Commons
  • Friday, April 4 | 1–3 p.m. | Reid Campus Center lobby
  • Wednesday, April 30 |  3-5 p.m. | in front of Hunter Conservatory
• Salary Negotiation Workshop: Understanding how to advocate for oneself in salary discussions is a crucial skill for seniors as they enter the workplace, and throughout their career. The CCEC offers interactive workshops during the spring semester to help students learn:
  • How to research salary expectations for their field.
  • Strategies for negotiating job offers with confidence.
  • How to assess benefits packages beyond just salary.
• Senior Check-In Appointments: Beyond drop-in hours, the CCEC is offering Senior Check-In Appointments dedicated to post-grad planning. These 30-minute sessions allow students to:
  • Review their job or graduate school applications.
  • Get tailored advice to specific to their early career goals and first steps.
  • Develop a job search strategy that aligns with their interests and skills.

✅ Schedule your Senior Check-In Appointment via Handshake

Build essential “last-mile” skills useful in the workplace

Seniors can also enhance their skill set and boost their resume with industry-recognized certifications. Thanks to a partnership with the Walla Walla Public Library, Whitman students have free access to LinkedIn Learning, offering thousands of courses in business, technology, creative fields and more.

📅 How to Access: Students can log in through the Walla Walla Public Library website using their student credentials. Need help? Visit the CCEC for guidance on selecting the certifications and courses that might extend or complement existing experience.

Take the Next Step: We’re Here to Help!

A student’s career journey doesn’t end at graduation—it’s just beginning! Now is an excellent time to take advantage of the tools, information and support to be set up for success. Not sure how to get started, just stop by Reid #219 and we’ll go from there.