OHIO Online launches new virtual Career Hub

OHIO Online’s Career Services recently launched the Career Hub – a new, virtual space in Canvas for online students to explore career support offerings.

This hub is customized for both graduate and undergraduate students and offers up-to-date resources and innovative features. 

The Career Hub was created with every type of working professional in mind. When students enter the site, they can select which stage of professional development they are seeking assistance with. These stages include job exploration, entry into the workforce, career transitions, and career advancement.

Each stage has resources available specifically tailored to them so that no matter where they are in the workforce, there is something that they can benefit from.  

Cutting edge technology and resources for OHIO Online students 

Some of these resources include cutting edge AI-assisted tools, such as Big Resume and Theo, to support OHIO Online students in their job searches and career growth. Big Resume is an AI powered resume and cover letter platform. After the user uploads their resume and/or cover letter, it offers feedback and detailed steps on how to improve these documents so that they will leave a more powerful first impression on employers. 

Theo by nSpireAI is a new AI tool that OHIO Online launched last month and helps students through all stages of the job application process. Like Big Resume, Theo can help students create stronger resumes and cover letter documents using the key terms and descriptions that are more likely to land them in an interview. However, Theo also offers additional services such as interview, sales pitch, and networking event practice. These practice opportunities mimic real life scenarios, and Theo gives real-time feedback based on student performance.  

There are also new non-AI tools and resources for students. For example, students who need help making job search decisions now have access to Indeed’s Job Search Academy. The Job Search Academy is a free, virtual career development program created by Indeed and Ohio University to help students excel in their job search.

The Academy focuses on mastering the five key areas of the job search, so that students are informed and more confident about their decisions throughout the job hunt. 

Services such as Big Resume, Theo, and Job Search Academy are usually paywalled, but they are free for OHIO Online students when using an Ohio University email address. Additionally, they are now easier to access using the Hub.

For students who need help using these tools or just want one-on-one assistance with documents and the job search process, they will still have access to the Career Team’s expertise through private appointments.  

Moving in-house and strengthening alumni connections 

In previous years, graduate students received third party career support through an outside vendor. Now, instead of outsourcing career support through the GradCAT program provided by Randstad RiseSmart, their career support is going to be in-house.

“We’re excited about moving all our services in-house. Moving away from a third-party vendor ensures that we provide customized career support that is tailored by Bobcats for Bobcats, ” said Elizabeth Guarino, the associate director of Career Services and Engagement.

Another benefit of moving in-house? Leveraging alumni connections with Bobcats who are working across various industries. 

Kathy Wilson, the senior director of Affinity Programs and Student Engagement, who works closely with the Alumni Association, states, “Students can easily access the Bobcat Network via the Hub to make new networking connections, and the Career Team can make more Bobcat networking recommendations than an outside vendor would be able to.” 

OHIO Online Career Services offers expert help 

From securing an entry level job to career advancement, there is something for every type of OHIO Online student in the Hub. Additionally, Career Services is comprised of an expert team. Should students need assistance outside of the Hub, seasoned industry leaders such as Guarino are there to help.  

Guarino’s former roles include Chief People Officer for Raising Canes of Ohio and owner/operator of a 15-year consulting practice in the Human Capital Management space. She brings decades of work experience to Ohio University, and she will continue to enrich students’ lives with her expertise.

To schedule an appointment with Guarino, students can use her appointment scheduler or email her at eguarino@ohio.edu.