Columbia College Career Services: Launching Creative Careers
Columbia College Career Services is dedicated to equipping students and alumni with the skills and resources necessary for effective career searches and informed career decisions. Whether you’re a current student, an alumnus, an employer, or a family member supporting your student’s career journey, the Career Center is here to engage and prepare the next generation of creatives. By offering personalized career advising, access to job postings, industry resources, and resume and cover letter reviews, the Career Center facilitates opportunities and supports success through networking events and industry-specific advising.
Comprehensive Services Offered
Career Services provides a multifaceted approach to career development, encompassing various resources and programs designed to meet the diverse needs of its students and alumni. These services include:
- Individualized Career Guidance and Planning: Tailored support to help individuals explore career options, set goals, and develop strategic plans.
- Graduate School Assistance: Guidance and resources for those considering further education.
- Professional Development Workshops: Skill-building sessions focused on enhancing professional capabilities.
- Resume Critiques: Expert review and feedback to create impactful resumes.
- Mock Interviews: Practice interview sessions to build confidence and refine interviewing skills.
- Internship Assistance: Support in finding and securing valuable internship experiences.
- Employment Fairs and Employer Information Sessions: Opportunities to connect with potential employers and learn about job prospects.
Accessing Career Services
Career Services is accessible through walk-ins and scheduled appointments. Appointments can be arranged for in-person or virtual visits via Zoom. To check walk-in availability, use the Navigate app or the lobby kiosk in the Career Services office. For appointments, Navigate serves as the primary platform.
NAVIGATE: Your Gateway to Career Resources
NAVIGATE is Columbia College's career platform designed to connect students and employers.
Koala Careers: Connecting Students and Employers
Students and Employers are invited to use Koala Careers, Columbia College's career platform for connecting students to services and employers.
Read also: Columbia University Legacy
Handshake: Your 24/7 Job and Internship Board
The Columbia Career Center utilizes Handshake, a comprehensive job and internship board, listing over 4,000 postings on average. This portal is accessible to all students and alumni 24/7. Handshake is also the platform for making career advising appointments and registering for events. Employers from around the world come to Columbia to recruit, and their openings are posted on Handshake. While not exhaustive, it is a the primary source for on-campus employment opportunities and a great resource for internship and entry-level job search. To access postings, register for events, or book appointments, visit colum.joinhandshake.com. First-time users should activate their account using their Office 365 credentials through the single sign-on portal. *Do not create a new account yourself online. Need help logging in?
Success Stories: Real-World Impact
The effectiveness of Columbia College Career Services is reflected in the success of its graduates.
- Class of '23 Career Outcomes:
- 96% employed within a year
- 65% completed one or more internships
- 75% working in their major, related creative field, or using creative skills*The Class of 2023 surveyed within 12-18 months of graduation.
These statistics show the value of the Career Center's services in preparing students for successful careers.
Student Testimonials
Here are a few testimonials from students who have benefited from internships:
- Sam Santana BFA Film and Television - Screenwriting ’25, Summer Development Intern, Apple Studios: "The internship with Apple Studios was a fantastic experience that developed me both professionally and personally. Working alongside their talented and creative team, I learned more about the entertainment industry and the opportunities I can pursue moving forward."
- Kara Dominique Garcia BFA Traditional Animation, Minor in Illustration ’25, Screening Operations Intern, Netflix: "Working with Netflix has been an absolute honor, and a life-changing experience. I am forever grateful for my team that took me in and introduced me to the post-production world."
- "My internship with Arrival Artists has been an incredible opportunity that’s helping me expand my knowledge of the live music industry and talent representation. I’ve been collaborating with their passionate and dedicated team and gaining valuable insights into artist bookings and agency operations."
Read also: Opportunities at Columbia University
Read also: Paying for Columbia
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