University of Niagara Falls Canada students looking to build essential job search skills and work on their professional development can now do so anywhere, anytime, with the online launch of the university’s Career Readiness Workshop Series.
Starting as an in-person offering in October 2024, the move to a digital format adds a layer of convenience for students, empowering them to access the comprehensive program on their own schedule, according to series creator Kimberly Mikalauskas, Career Advisor at UNF.
“I wanted to make this program accessible to all students, whether they are studying in person, online, or in a hybrid format,” she said. “My hope is that it not only boosts students’ career readiness but also gives them the confidence they need to begin their job search.”
The Career Readiness Workshop Series comprises three levels with 15 self-paced modules that guide students through a successful job search, while also introducing key workplace skills to support their career growth.
- Level 1 covers foundational job search skills such as writing resumes and cover letters, conducting an effective job search, and preparing for interviews.
- Level 2 introduces strategies for professional networking, including tips for building relationships both in-person and online.
- Level 3 focuses on workplace readiness, with modules on professional etiquette, managing stress and burnout, navigating conflict, and setting personal and professional goals.
Each module includes focused lessons, curated online resources, and opportunities for reflection that help students clarify and refine their career goals.
“With so much career information available, it can be overwhelming for students,” explained Mikalauskas. “That’s why I created the Career Readiness Hub, a centralized resource to support their success.”
The hub is located within the student learning management system, alongside regular course materials.
To complete each level of the online workshop series, students participate in discussion boards and submit short assignments, receiving personalized feedback from UNF’s Career Advisors. Students earn a digital badge and 10 hours of professional development credit for each completed level. The full series takes approximately 30 hours to finish.
Master of Data Analytics student Stephen Abayomi has completed Level 1 of the series and described it as a “game changer” for his professional development journey.
“The modules gave me tools that I could apply immediately, and that made a big difference. I'm truly grateful for the experience and would absolutely recommend it to other students looking to gain a competitive edge,” he said.
The workshop series is just one of many valuable supports provided by Career Services. From one-on-one appointments and peer-to-peer group sessions to professional networking opportunities, the team offers a diverse suite of supports designed for student success.
Later this month, they will also be hosting an on-campus Opportunity Fair to help build connections between UNF students and Niagara-based employers. This initiative builds off the success of the university’s first-ever Career Retreat, a weekend event led by Mikalauskas where students completed Level 1 of the workshop series and participated in mock interviews and networking scenarios. The Career Readiness Workshop Series is accessible to current undergraduate and graduate students in the Cascade portal.
