Bridging the Gap Between College and Career: A Key to First-Gen Persistence
At Basta, we understand that the key to persistence and graduation for first-generation students lies in building a bridge between classroom learning and career success. When students see their education as a launchpad for their professional lives, they're more likely to thrive in school. It’s a perspective that transforms how students approach their studies and shapes their entire academic journey. This school year, we’re excited to partner with Florida State University Panama City and New York University’s School of Professional Studies, as we work together to equip students with the career preparation they need from day one. Florida State University Panama City has partnered with Basta to enhance first-generation college students' success. This collaboration provides all FSUPC students with access to Basta's career readiness tools and a group of first-gen students will gain access to a comprehensive career prep platform. By incorporating these resources directly into their initiatives, FSUPC ensures that students, especially those who may not seek help on their own, stay focused on their career journey from the start.
NYU School of Professional Studies has partnered with Basta to provide specific students access to Basta’s career readiness tools and platform by embedding Discovery Program into their existing curriculum. By integrating these resources into existing programs, NYUSPS is providing comprehensive academic experiences and career journeys for its students.
As colleges adapt to the changing needs of their student populations, they're facing a critical challenge: only 34% of students strongly agree that their college education adequately prepared them for a job, while 16% strongly disagree. This gap underscores the growing demand for career preparation to be woven into learning experiences, with faculty and advisers playing an active role in students' career journeys. While more universities are responding to this need, there's still significant work to be done. Let's explore how institutions can forge stronger connections between college and career, highlighting schools that are leading the way in bridging this crucial divide.
Embed Career Development into Course Design
Did you know that 31% of students have never interacted with their campus career center? Many students don’t engage with career services because they’re unaware of them or simply don't have the time. Even more concerning, the ratio of career service staff to students is alarmingly low - often 1 staff member for thousands of students - making it hard for students to get the support they need. By incorporating career exploration and professional development directly into the curriculum, colleges can ensure that every student—especially those who may not seek help on their own—stays focused on their career journey from the start. This approach empowers students to maximize their opportunities amid high demands, setting the stage for long-term professional success.
On the ground at Bryant University in Rhode Island, all first-year students are required to take a course where they learn essential core competencies and self-management skills. The course charts an integrated approach that encourages students to reflect on personal interests, explore various career paths, and ultimately select a field of study that aligns with their long-term goals.
Boost Faculty-Career Center Teamwork
Nearly 7 in 10 students say that at least one professor has helped them explore potential careers or develop career skills. However, close to a third say they still haven’t interacted with their career center. Faculty involvement, paired with career services, can be a powerful force in helping students navigate the job market.
On the ground at the University of Missouri at Kansas City, the Professional Career Escalators program brings faculty and career services together, offering students structured guidance to break down silos between healthcare, education, and business professionals and actively drive collaboration early on in order to accelerate first-gen careers.
Elevate First-Gen Careers Through Role Models and Connections
According to Basta’s Social Capital (SoCap) Insights, building connections with senior professionals plays a crucial role in accelerating the careers of first-gen students. It’s essential for colleges to offer opportunities for students to connect with professionals through alumni networks, industry partnerships, or hiring leaders in the field to work directly in career services.
On the ground at Pepperdine University’s First Wave program, first-gen students are connected to a directory of first-gen ambassadors and first-gen faculty members. Many of these faculty members are well-established and well-connected professionals who can provide tailored guidance to help students navigate academic challenges and develop critical networking skills.
Ready to propel first-gen students toward success by bridging their academic and professional journeys?
Connect with us and explore how we can collaborate to elevate student success at your institution. Your commitment to their success starts here! #firstgenmagic
