Career Connections is a free, easy way for alumni to advise students from anywhere
by Marisa Mata
Fresno State alumni in all occupations are being asked to share their expertise with current students by signing up — for free — on the new Fresno State Career Connections networking site.
Launched through the Fresno State Alumni Association, Career Connections provides the opportunity for alumni to give back to their alma mater by mentoring students needing career advice.
The web-based platform overcomes obstacles of distance and time, making it possible for students to connect with any alum willing to help.
Senior Jamie Guzman, who is studying commercial recreation and event planning, says she attended a career workshop and was quickly overcome by thoughts of doubt. She knew she needed to seek advice but wasn’t sure how. So she gave Fresno State Career Connections a try.
The same day Guzman joined, she was able to connect with alumna Amanda Leath (class of 1999), a business owner and events coordinator in San Luis Obispo.
“I signed up, and in a week or two I had my first connection request, and that was from Jamie,” Leath says. “The whole process was really easy. I did all the legwork online, and it only took a minute or two, and 20 seconds to respond to the connection request, and then a 30-minute phone call. We had a really great conversation, and I felt like I really helped her.”
During their phone call, Leath reviewed Guzman’s resume, gave her tips on applying for jobs and going to interviews and even led her to a couple of places that she may
be interested in working.
“Instead of just talking to my parents, I needed to find someone in my field who could help me” Guzman says. “She told me what she would look for, and I thought that was very helpful, especially because she’s coming from a place that I want to be.”
— Marisa Mata is a student assistant for the Fresno State Alumni Association.
Become an Adviser Online
To sign up for Fresno State Career Connections, visit www.fresnostatealumni.com/careerconnections
