Career preparation for student-athletes is no different than for non-athletes. Employers and graduate schools will judge you based on many criteria: your course of studies; grades; extra-curricular activities; work and volunteer experience; written and verbal communication skills; computer and foreign language skills; and evidence of leadership, initiative, and dedication.
But because of the time constraints placed on student athletes, and NCAA prohibitions against scholarship recipients working for pay, many student-athletes do not have as much work-related or community service experience as non-athletes. So on paper, many student-athletes do not look as qualified or “marketable” as non-athletes. But there are ways to “sell yourself” so that employers and graduate schools will know exactly what skills you have and what you have to offer.
Career Services can help you – whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior. We’ll help you plan a career, gain relevant work experience, market yourself, and get a job or pursue graduate studies.
Develop a career plan, learn about jobs
with your major, create a resume, get a
summer job or internship, discuss
graduate school or the job search
Run (don’t walk) to schedule with a career
counselor
Call 815-753-1641
Career Services: We’re Here To Help
Career Decision Making
- Career Services can help you Select a Career. Because of NCAA restrictions on changing majors, this may be especially hard for student athletes. You might feel pressured to make a decision that you are uncertain about. Career counselors can work with you to 1) clarify career interests, values and abilities, 2) explore interesting majors, and 3) identify the ideal career for you. This is accomplished through career testing and discussions with professional career counselors.
Internships & Summer Jobs
- Career Services counselors can help you obtain career-related experience as early as the summer of your freshman year. If you train or compete in sports over the summer, we may be able to help you find positions to accommodate your summer schedule. Career Services also sponsors Internship Fairs during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Career Preparation & Job Search Assistance
- Career Services can help you plan a successful job search strategy, including:
- How and where to apply for jobs
- Part-time jobs and volunteer opportunities
- Resume and cover letters
- Graduate school selection and application
- Interview and job fair preparation