(WBTW) — Local colleges are working to help graduating seniors find jobs and career guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Coker University

Dean of Student Success at Coker University, Whitney Watts Bedard, told News13 they are working to support graduating seniors by doing the following:

  • The Student Success Center holds virtual office hours twice a day for students via Google Meets to talk with a Student Success Coach. One-on-one appointments can be set up by contacting the Student Success Center at student.success@coker.edu.
  • The Student Success Center offers a weekly “Connect to Your Career” program for students via Google Meets on Tuesdays at 12:15 p.m.
  • The university partnered with Handshake for an online career portal. All Coker students have free access to the portal to search for job or internship openings. Handshake has provided resources for students on companies currently hiring on Handshake and how to get hired remotely.
  • The university is working on a new partnership to provide discounts for students who want to go to Graduate school.
  • Students with questions can reach out to the Student Success Center at student.success@coker.edu.

Francis Marion University

Francis Marion University said students can talk with counselors in the Career Development Center by phone, email, and teleconference. The university also joined Handshake in 2019, which is an online tool to help employers and new graduates connect.

“Obviously, the economic downturn related to the COVID-19 outbreak has significantly dampened hiring and our market and beyond,” Vice President of University Communications, Tucker Mitchell said. “Dr. Kunka, Dr. Miller and company are doing all they can to support our graduating seniors as they complete their education.”

Coastal Carolina University

Coastal Carolina University will be holding a virtual career fair on April 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Those seeking internships or jobs are encouraged to attend using this link.

The university said there is room for up to 50 employers, including non-profits. Companies can register using the same link as above. The fee for non-profits is $100 and the corporate fee is $200.

“The partnership of CareerEco provides CCU students access to other career fairs that are open nationwide, as well as access to employers who may not have engaged with our campus in the past,” Director of Career Services, Verne Walker said. “The CareerEco platform will allow students and alumni to interact with employers while viewing presentations, engaging in group and individual employment-related chats, and participating in potential video interviews.”

The number of students and alumni that can participate does not have limit, the university said.

Career Services continues to serve students and alumni virtually with appointments, workshops, events, and social media engagement. Career Services are also providing career counseling, college major consultations, help with resumes and cover letters, mock interviews, interview preparation, and all students and alumni have access to Handshake, CareerShift, and Big Interview, CCU said.

Appointments for CCU students and alumni can call 843-349-2341 or email career@coastal.edu to schedule an online appointment between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on weekdays.

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