A New Era in Career Development: Emory University's Innovative Approach under Amanda Long

Expanding Opportunities for Students through Career and Professional Development

By April Hunt? Sept. 16, 2024

Amanda Long's appointment as the Assistant Vice Provost for career and professional development at the Pathways Center this summer has heralded a transformation in Emory University’s undergraduate services. Since her arrival with a rich background of thirteen years in supporting student transition to their post-graduate careers, she is already revamping online workshops, career counseling services, and other initiatives designed to empower students for impactful future careers.

I thrive on helping students find fulfillment in the potential that they haven't yet realized, says Long. It's not just about providing tools and resources; it’s about demonstrating how each one can shape their personal future and inspiring them with the prospects of making a meaningful difference.

The Pathways Center, which is now in its third year of operation as Emory College of Arts and Science’s hub for career development services, experiential learning programs, undergraduate research initiatives, pre-professional advising, national fellowship applications support, among others, prepare students' for careers that their values.

The Career and Professional Development CPD department plays a crucial role in assisting Emory College students in identifying, exploring, and pursuing potential career paths. It also connects students to alumni, employers, and graduate schools for valuable opportunities.

I am enthusiastic about the passion and drive of Emory's students towards making a difference through their careers, Long continues. My job is to facilitate this effort.

Long sat down for an interview recently sharing her plans on expanding CPD programs and partnerships to enhance every student’s career readiness. We will share highlights from our conversation below.

QA with Amanda Long

Tell us about your career journey leading up to Emory University, what inspired you to join here? What does a day in your job entl for you?

Long joined Emory after thirteen years of experience guiding students towards successful post-graduate careers. Her motivation comes from the drive and passion she witnesses among Emory students when it comes to creating an impact through their careers. A typical day involves providing career guidance, advocating on behalf of Emory's liberal arts education in the workforce, addressing equity gaps among students, engaging alumni for collaboration, involving faculty in academic career development programs, and advising students on their path towards future success.

How does CPD help students who may struggle to envision potential careers beyond traditional fields? What tools do you offer them for skill-building opportunities?

Long acknowledges that many students find it challenging to imagine careers beyond what seems conventional. The CPD office provides workshops, mentorship programs, and alumni connections to show them the diverse range of career paths they could pursue using their liberal arts education.

When interacting with employers, how do you highlight the value of a liberal arts education in Emory’s context? Do you find it difficult to communicate its significance to potential employers?

Long believes that while there may be challenges, communicating the value of a liberal arts education is crucial. It highlights critical thinking, communication skills, and adaptability - essential trts for employers looking for talented individuals.

How does CPD address equity gaps among students when it comes to career development opportunities? What specific measures are taken for this purpose?

Addressing equity in career development starts with ensuring equal access to resources and opportunities. CPD offers workshops on resume-building, interview skills, networking events targeted at underrepresented groups, and mentorship programs that specifically m to support all students equally.

Alumni engagement is a key part of CPD’s work. How do you plan on involving alumni in the development process and leveraging their contributions to benefit current students?

Long envisions creating pathways for alumni involvement through mentoring, networking events, guest lectures, or collaborative projects med at enriching student experiences with real-world insights.

What role does faculty play in the career discernment process of Emory College students? How do CPD programs m to include and engage with faculty members?

Involving Emory College faculty helps shape the academic career path for students. CPD seeks faculty input on industry trs, offers professional development workshops for instructors to better support student job search strategies, and collaborates in creating a curriculum that prepares students for their future careers.

How does CPD ensure its services are accessible and beneficial for all students regardless of their background or field of study?

By integrating inclusive practices into its programs, CPD provide tlored guidance that caters to the unique needs of each student. This includes offering online resources, flexibility in appointment scheduling, and leveraging technology to overcome geographical barriers.

In what ways is Emory University poised for success through its career development initiatives under Amanda Long's leadership?

Under Amanda Long’s guidance, Emory’s Career and Professional Development department is expected to make significant strides by focusing on personalized career planning, fostering innovative learning experiences, strengthening alumni connections, engaging faculty more deeply in student career support, and leveraging technology for enhanced accessibility.

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