Madison Reporter

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is playing a crucial role in guiding students from their academic experiences to their professional careers through its extensive network of career services. Zoey Ci Kue, initially intent on medical school, found her path redirected toward law school after utilizing the university's Career Exploration Center (CEC). With the help of CEC director Michelle Jackson, she discovered a major and career path that aligned with her interests. "You’re your worst critic, and I felt like they still saw the potential in me," Zoey stated.

The university boasts over 15 career services offices, each dedicated to supporting students across various disciplines. These offices provide personalized support, including advising sessions, workshops, career fairs, and alumni panels. Tara Milliken, Director for Institutional Career Services Strategy at UW–Madison, emphasized the goal: “Our large network of career offices do just that — they help ensure that all students find the career support and resources they need during their time as a Badger to prepare for life after graduation.”

Celine Cheng, a senior majoring in consumer behavior and marketplace studies, experienced this personalized touch firsthand when her internship faced challenges. With assistance from Alex Seidenstricker and Alicia Hazen from SoHE’s career center, Celine successfully resolved her credit issue. "They’re not teachers; they’re just friends helping you," she remarked.

Christopher Johns found an unexpected opportunity with Baird at a campus career fair by assisting a recruiter setting up a table. The SuccessWorks Internship Fund later provided financial support for his commuting costs during his internship in Milwaukee. Christopher highlighted the importance of such resources for first-generation students: "Those resources aren’t necessarily right in front of you or it’s not your parents having friends who can help you."

Alisha Kulkarni has both benefited from and contributed to these services as a peer advisor at the Wisconsin School of Business. She encourages early engagement with career services: “These people are here for your whole four years.” Her experience underscores the value of peer coaching: “You can learn so much from someone who’s going through the same thing as you are.”

UW–Madison’s comprehensive approach aims to provide every student with tailored guidance throughout their academic journey and beyond.