Would you like to utilize your degree after graduation?  Kelly is a recent Mental Health Counseling graduate who found a professional position by tapping into her network, connecting with Career Services and Walden Alumni Association, and learning how to communicate her strengths through her resume and interview process.  Kelly landed a full-time master’s level position as a Mental Health Counselor within an outpatient clinic in a new state that was desirable. Below are three strategies that paved the way for Kelly’s success:

Networking Through Walden and Beyond

Kelly used a combination of networking and proactive job search strategies to target numerous opportunities in the Mental Health field.  During her time as a Walden student, she reached out to students, faculty, and staff for career insights and suggestions. After graduation, she continues to cultivate those relationships. In addition, she is an active member of LinkedIn, belongs to several professional groups, and has connected with recruiters specializing in social service agencies and nonprofits.  She actively sought advice and job leads from friends, former supervisors, and professionals in her field.  Since graduation, Kelly had three interviews at organizations she discovered through 1) job postings on LinkedIn, 2) the iHire Mental Health job bank, and 3) a tip from one of her faculty members. 

Individualized Career Advising

Like many Walden students and alumni, Kelly had a unique situation that required individualized assistance. Through a series of career advising appointments, we strengthened the professional summary section of her resume, coached on interviewing etiquette, and practiced salary negotiation. As a result, Kelly gained a diverse tool kit of skills that helped her outshine her competition. She had an extra layer of complexity in her job search since her goal was to relocate to another state.  She found the tips in the career webinar, Strategies for Successful Relocation, helpful as she coordinated her move.

The Right Attitude!

Kelly expressed that her work with Career Services helped counterbalance feelings of isolation and discouragement that are a normal part of the job search process. She stated that, “Career Services helped me find more confidence by offering reassurance and skill building over a five month period of time.” Through the support offered by Career Services and her professional network, Kelly was able to remain positive and optimistic about her job prospects after graduation until she landed her position.

We send our best wishes to Kelly as she launches her new career as a Mental Health Counselor!

Written by Career Services Advisor Dina Bergren