Career Accelerator Program

The Career Accelerator Program (CAP) is a collaboration between the School of Business, SEST,  and the Career Development Office that connects students with profession presenters and session curriculum developers. CAP activities provide career readiness classes and events to improve Central graduates’ potential for career success when entering the workforce. CAP events help students with resume development, interview skills, networking, and more.

Questions? Contact

Dana Wilkie
Associate Dean, School of Business
dwilkie@ccsu.edu
860.832.3223

Fall 2024 Events

Obtaining An Internship

September 12, 2024

Student Center, 1849 room, 3:05 p.m.

This session is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to obtain a successful internship. In this course, students will learn the ins and outs of the internship application process, as well as how to effectively communicate their skills and experiences to potential employers. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the key elements of a successful internship search, and develop the skills required to secure an internship in their field of interest. Refreshments included!

Presenter: Ashley Browning, Talent Specialist at COCC

Register

Obtaining An Internship

September 26, 2024

Memorial Hall, Connecticut Room, 12:15 p.m.

This session is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to obtain a successful internship. In this course, students will learn the ins and outs of the internship application process, as well as how to effectively communicate their skills and experiences to potential employers. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the key elements of a successful internship search, and develop the skills required to secure an internship in their field of interest. Pizza Lunch included!

Presenter: Amanda Meskell, Director of Internship Development & Recruitment Northwestern Mutual/ Emerging Talent.

Register

Resume 101

October 16, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

This sessions is focused on creating an effective resume or improve the one you already have. Transform your resume into a powerful tool that will get you interviews. Learn different resume formats and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Make the most of your experience and discover how to use references to your advantage. Pizza Lunch included!

Presenter: Brittany Galko, Member of a diverse Human Resources team at CohnReznick LLP.

Register

Introduction To The Financial Services Sector

September 18, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

In this session, students will learn about careers in the financial sector. The financial sector a section of the economy made up of firms and institutions that provide financial services to commercial and retail customers. This sector comprises a broad range of industries including banks, investment companies, insurance companies, and real estate firms. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Rosa Y. C. Chen, CFA®, CPA Director of Research & Portfolio Manager

Register

Preparing For Career Fair Success

September 19, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

In this session, students will gain an understanding of a career fair and its purpose. They will become aware of how to research employers and best prepare to attend one of these events and learn how to effectively navigate a career fair. They will learn how to enhance their networking skills and recognize the importance of following up with employers. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: P.J. Rossitto, Director of Career Development

Register

Understanding Cultural Competencies In The Workplace

October 2, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

This session aims to enhance students understanding of cultural competencies and their importance in fostering an inclusive and productive work environment. Students will identify key components of cultural competencies, including awareness, knowledge, and skills and explore the impact of cultural diversity on team dynamics and organizational success. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Dr. Lisa Wisniewski, Professor of Sociology at Goodwin University

Register

Creating Your Personal Brand

October 10, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

This session is designed to help you start thinking about your Personal Brand and provide you with practical steps on how to start building and communicating both online and offline, who you are, what you do, what your core strengths and skills are as well as the value you can bring to a company. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Alex Martinez, University Relations Consultant at The Hartford

Register

Emotional Intelligence In The Workplace

October 24, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 3:05 p.m.

This session is designed to help students develop their emotional intelligence skills in the classroom and workplace, improving their ability to communicate effectively, manage relationships, and make decisions. Emotional intelligence is a crucial skill for success in the modern workplace, and this session will provide students with the tools and strategies needed to enhance their emotional intelligence and improve their performance in class and at work. Refreshments included!

Presenter: Alana Ledford, Communications consultant and educator at Foxcroft Communications and Central Connecticut State University

Register

Making A Lasting First Impression

October 30, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

This session is designed to help students develop and deliver an authentic elevator pitch that effectively communicates their value proposition, captures attention, and makes a lasting impression. In today's fast-paced business environment, being able to articulate succinctly and convincingly who you are and what you offer is essential for networking, job interviews, and professional success. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Cathy Donhue, Communications strategist and educator

Register

Planning For Graduate School

November 13, 2024

Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.

 Making the decision to go to graduate school is one that requires a great deal of planning and organization. This session is designed to provide students with information, advice, and resources to help them along the process. Students will be introduced to Accelerate Central. The Accelerate Program gives eligible, full-time business majors the opportunity to complete a BS and Masters degree in 5 years. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Dr. Christina Robinson, Associate Vice President of Recruitment and Admissions

Register

Past Events In Spring 2024

Impactful Introductions in the Workplace

January 24, 2024

Student Center Room 134, 12 p.m.

This session is designed to equip students at all levels with the skills and strategies to create lasting impressions. Students will engage in interactive exercises, role-playing scenarios, and group discussions to practice and refine their introduction skills in a supportive and constructiv environment. Pizza lunch is included!

Presenter: Cathy Donahue
Cathy Donahue is a dynamic coaching and communication strategist who is passionate about helping leaders improve the value and outcomes of their work. 

Resume 101

January 31, 2024

Vance Academic Center, Room 466, 12 p.m.

This session is focused on creating an effective resume or improving the one you already have. Transform your resume into a powerful tool that will get you interviews. Learn different resume formats and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Brittany Galko
Brittany is a member of a diverse human resources team at CohnReznick LLP. She is well versed in the recruitment and retention of accounting interns and professionals. She exemplifies strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. 

Watch Presentation- Resume 101

Mastering the Art of Networking

February 7, 2024

Student Center Room 134, 12 p.m.

Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop on "Mastering the Art of Networking." In today's professional landscape, the ability to build and maintain effective networks is a crucial skill that can significantly impact your success. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Dr. Lisa Wisniewski
Lisa Wisniewski is a professor of sociology skilled in communication, multicultural education, and student development. 

Watch Presentation- Mastering the Art of Networking

Career Ready Competencies

February 14, 2024

Sprague/Carlton Room, 12 p.m.

Career readiness is the attainment and demonstration of requisite competencies that broadly prepare college graduates for a successful transition into the workplace. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has created a definition for career readiness to identify eight distinct competencies. The goal of this session is to equip students with knowledge and skill to utilize career competencies toward career readiness. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Alana Ledford
Communication Consultant and Educator, Foxcroft Communications & Central Connecticut State University

Watch Presentation- Career Ready Competencies

Giving and Receiving Feedback in the Workplace

February 21, 2024

Philbrook Room, 12 p.m.

This session is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge required to give and receive feedback effectively in a variety of formal and professional settings. In this session, students will learn strategies for delivering feedback that is constructive, specific, and actionable, and for receiving feedback with an open mind and a growth mindset. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Karrain Moody, Habitat for Humanity

Interview Success Strategies

February 28, 2024

Sprague/Carlton Room, 12 p.m.

Unlock the secrets to acing interviews and securing the job of your dreams with our comprehensive presentation on interview success strategies. In today's competitive job market, being well-prepared for interviews is essential for standing out and making a lasting impression on potential employers. Pizza lunch included!

Presenter: Jamie Roshka, Travelers

Watch Presentation- Interview Success Strategies

Your Career, Our Mission

March 20, 2024

Philbrook Room, 12 p.m.

Embark on a transformative journey with our "Your Career, Our Mission" session, designed to empower students in navigating and advancing their professional paths with purpose and intention. In a world where careers are dynamic and diverse, it's essential to align personal aspirations with a broader sense of mission and impact. 

Presenter: PJ Rossitto, Central Office of Career Development