News :Using Your Alumni Association to Advance Your Career

Posted on Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Chances are you got your first job with a little help from your nursing school. But did you know that your school’s alumni association can help you advance your career well after graduation?

At many nursing schools, alumni associations make it possible for you to tap into the full services of your school’s career services network, even decades after graduation. Many offer specialized career advancement and career exploration services available only to alumni. Some services, particularly individualized assistance, may require a fee; but many services are free with alumni association membership.

Whether you’re just getting started out, or are an experienced nursing professional, there is something to be gained by everyone through alumni association membership. While offers will vary from school to school, the broad range of exclusive alumni services available to you may include:

• Individual career counseling and advising
• Access to online self-assessment instruments
• Specialized workshops on a variety of nursing career issues
• Career transition assistance
• Notice of continuing education (CE) courses, including those available through the Maxim Rewards Continuing Education Program
• Graduate school application assistance
• Professional networking opportunities at alumni association events, activities, or lectures
• Access to extensive print and digital career resources, including alumni newsletters
• Professional development workshops
• Personal help with resume writing, cover letters, interviewing, and salary negotiation
• Mentoring services and opportunities
• Alumni group travel programs