What is the Hawk Career Network?

The Hawk Career Network provides students with access to over 600 professionally accomplished alumni/ae making significant contributions in a wide variety of career fields.  These dedicated Saint Joseph's University alumni/ae have volunteered to answer career-related questions and provide advice and suggestions to students and other alumni/ae.  The Hawk Career Network was launched in late May and we are currently building the database to include as many alumni/ae contacts as possible.  The database grows to include more alumni/ae on a regular basis.  If you do not find contacts that meet your interests, please call 610.660.3100 to schedule an appointment with a career counselor

How does the Hawk Career Network Work?

1. Students are invited to schedule an appointment with a career counselor in the Career Development Center to discuss their interest in networking with alumni/ae.  The session will include a discussion regarding the protocol and strategies involved with networking that will lead to the development of meaningful, helpful relationships with alumni/ae.  To schedule an appointment call 610.660.3100.
2. Once a student's networking goals are established, the career counselor will provide the student with web-based access to the hundreds of Saint Joseph's University alumni/ae who are actively contributing to Hawk Career Network.
3. It is crucial to keep in mind that the best uses of networking focus on development meaningful relationships with working professionals for the purpose of sharing information and resources that will benefit both parties.  Asking for a job/internship is not an effective use of the Hawk Career Network and should not be the motivation for participating in the network.

Why Would I Want to Speak With Alumni/ae?

Alumni/ae serve as a wonderful source of information about careers that may be of interest to you.  They can offer advice on how to break into specific industries, or suggest specific courses and/or activities that may be beneficial in certain careers.  Alumni/ae can provide information about the types of internships and experiential learning opportunities that are most effective for entry into the career field.  Below are some sample questions for alumni.

Questions You Might Be Interested in Asking Alumni

• How well suited is my background for this type of work?
• What kinds of experiences would you recommend for someone trying to break into your industry?
• If you were a college student again, knowing what you know now,
  how would you plan your career differently?
• What has been your career path since graduation?
• How did you prepare for your career? What was your college major?
• What kinds of prior experience are absolutely essential?
• How did you find your present job?
• Can you give me the names of any colleagues who might also be willing to
  speak with me and offer any advice? 
• ALWAYS be sure to thank the alum for their time and for sharing their experiences!  (a written thank you note would be an excellent idea)