Staff in the Career and Professional Readiness Center (CPRC) are always looking for ways to give SBU students an edge when it comes to preparing them for employment and graduate school.

That’s why they’re gearing up for the fourth year of the Competitive Edge Certificate (The EDGE) program. The EDGE provides participating sophomores, juniors, and seniors the opportunity to develop professional skills sought by employers and graduate schools. {CLICK HERE to watch a video about The EDGE}

During the 2018-19 academic year, students will participate in a diverse series of six seminars. Topics The EDGE program will offer include self-awareness, professional communication, networking, interviewing, and workplace dynamics. 

New this year is an EDGE Certificate with Distinction. Students who complete the six seminars as well as four skill development items will receive this distinction. The skill development credentials include completing a CPRC-approved résumé, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, elevator pitch, business cards and practice interview.

Online registration for The EDGE opens today (Aug. 29) and closes Friday, Sept. 14, at http://www.sbu.edu/cprc. Space in the program is limited. Early registration is strongly encouraged. A kickoff event is being planned for Sept. 20.

“Employers consistently report that an applicant’s professionalism affects the likelihood of being hired,” said Pamela Ferman, director of the Career and Professional Readiness Center. “Through participation in The EDGE program, students will gain a greater understanding of the professional expectations of today’s workplace and develop confidence in their ability to present and communicate professionally. They will definitely enhance their marketability for internship and employment opportunities, as well as graduate school admission.”

Last year, 131 students completed requirements for The EDGE program. EDGE participants have found the seminar sessions were flexible and resourceful.

“I joined The EDGE because I wanted to develop personal and professional skills that are desired by employers and graduate schools. I found the experience to be highly beneficial,” said senior sport studies major Andrew Garbacz.

Fellow senior Patrick Graham agrees. 

“The EDGE program has taught me the right way to professionally network, how to act in an office, and just be yourself. In the business world, being yourself and making sure you do the little things correctly goes a long way,” said Graham, a marketing major. “Whether it is first impressions, business meetings, or just having a friendly conversation, I now feel more prepared than I ever could have imagined because of The EDGE program.”

Accounting major Alexandra Miller, ’19, said that she has improved her marketability.

“After completing The EDGE program, I feel that I have an advantage over someone who has not been exposed to what this program has to offer,” said Miller.

Students who complete all program requirements by April 2019 will receive a certificate, be recognized at an end-of-year reception, and receive a letter of achievement from the president of the university.

Learn more about The EDGE and other professional development opportunities offered by the CPRC at www.sbu.edu/cprc.

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About the University:The nation’s first Franciscan university, we believe in the goodness of every person and in the ability of every person to do extraordinary things.  St. Bonaventure University cultivates graduates who are confident and creative communicators, collaborative leaders and team members, and innovative problem solvers who are respectful of themselves, others, and the diverse world around them. Named the #3 best college value in the North by U.S. News and World Report, we are establishing pathways to internships, graduate schools and careers in the context of our renowned liberal arts tradition. Our students are becoming extraordinary.