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 third 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 2017-18 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.

Online registration in The EDGE opens Wednesday, Aug. 30, and closes Thursday, Sept. 14, at www.sbu.edu/cprc. Space in the program is limited. Early registration is strongly encouraged. A kickoff event is being planned for Sept. 18.

“Employers consistently report that an applicant’s professionalism affects the likelihood of being hired,” said Connie Whitcomb, 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.”

During the program last year, 116 students completed requirements for The EDGE program. The participants have found the seminar sessions to be flexible and resourceful.

“The entire atmosphere of the program is so uplifting and powerful. The EDGE team has really prepared me to be a better individual outside of St. Bonaventure and led me toward the right steps to further my career. I am thankful this program exists and I recommend it to any student,” said Caroline Power, ’18, a strategic communication and digital media major.

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.

Andrew Garbacz, ’19, a sport studies major, agrees.

“I joined the EDGE because I wanted to develop personal skills that are desired by employers and graduate schools. I found the experience to be highly beneficial as it helped me grow into the professional that want to be. I would highly recommend this program to every student at Bonaventure,” he said.

Students who complete all EDGE requirements by April 2018 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.

______________

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 #6 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.