Job and internship seekers can find help with the University of Idaho’s new manager for career advising and professional development, Eric Anderson.
Philip Vukelich | Argonaut
Eric Anderson, the new manager of the Career Advising and Professional Development office in the Career Center, works in his office during his first day of work Monday in the Idaho Commons.
Anderson began his position at the Career Center Monday, and he said he’s eager to get to work.
“(I want) to continue the great work the Career Center is doing and get the word out to our students and alumni about who we are and our services, and how we can best help them,” Anderson said.
He said there’s a great advising team assembled this year, and there will be in-class and Greek workshops provided — as well as 12-2 p.m. drop-in office hours. Anderson said he enjoys helping people put resumes together and guiding them through choices about majors, graduate schools or alternative options after graduation. He said he’s here for those students who face a few forks down the road.
“I’m really excited to help students who are at a crossroads … and to help them find the tools and resources (they need to) become successful after they graduate,” Anderson said.
An Iowa native, Anderson got his career counseling chops in AmeriCorps and advising at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. He said he looks forward to familiarizing himself with the Northwest and learning more about UI’s history, mission and goals.
Career Center Director Suzi Billington said Anderson will manage all career advising services for both students and alumni, and she hopes his background and technological experience will lend a new perspective to UI advising.
The center does a lot of one-on-one work, and there are many online resources which advisers can help students navigate.
According to Billington, one of the most useful resources is LinkedIn, a professional networking and job-listing site.
Anderson found his current position while helping a student on LinkedIn.
Billington said Anderson’s advising experience will help him hit the ground running, and his specialty in majors and career decision-making will serve students well.
“We don’t want students to wait too long before figuring that out,” she said. “The sooner they can get into the correct major and career path, the sooner they can graduate without wasted time and money.”
Professional recruiters begin their search for summer interns and employees in the fall, she said, particularly for science-intensive fields. Recent graduates, internship-seeking students or those who simply want a change of pace within a certain field can find help at the center, she said.
Anderson will begin facilitating in-class workshops and presentations next month, according to Billington.
“I do think (Anderson will) be a good addition to the office … and will help students understand the different career resources available to them,” Billington said.
Anderson said people shouldn’t wait to contact the office for any kind of assistance, regardless of field of study or experience.
“We’re here to help,” he said. “All majors, all students, all years.”
Matt Maw can be reached at [email protected]