By LEAH KEMPLE
Reporter

(WARRENSBURG, Mo., digitalBURG) — The University of Central Missouri Career Services encourages students to make connections for their future job searches.

Almost 2,000 students have started spinning their web of connections right here on campus, according to Human Resources.

Sarah Cavanah, career development coordinator in the Career Services Department, said there are many benefits to working on campus, including the development of networking skills, the potential relationships that can be made, the experience of working around professionals and the opportunity for a student to build their resume.

Cavanah said employers look for workers who have good written and oral communication skills, can work in teams, show leadership qualities and are trustworthy.

“I was a student employee and that led to a graduate assistant position, which led me to where I am now,” Cavanah said.

Kylie Rex, a digital media production major, said she has taken advantage of becoming a student worker and is reaping the benefits this semester. Rex works in video production in the Center for Teaching and Learning in the James C. Kirkpatrick Library. She said she makes instructional academic videos for different departments.

“I love working under professionals because I learn from them while practicing my editing and recording skills,” Rex said.

Rex said she works with and learns from Carol Knight, a design specialist in the Center for Teaching and Learning.

“The department of communication does a great job in teaching students on how to use the equipment, and this is just another place to gain experience and learn how studios are set up,” Knight said.

In regards to what she looks for in a student worker, Knight said she prefers someone who is easy to get along with, eager to learn and dependable.

Katie Legate, a communication studies major, said she has taken a dive into her future career as well. She works as a communication media assistant with University Relations where she writes content for UCM social media accounts.

“This job allows me to work in a team-like atmosphere and network with professionals,” Legate said. “I have also gained a lot of experience in social media writing.”

Legate said she likes that her job allows her to experience a professional work environment and said she understands what will be expected of her once she graduates and finds a career outside of the university.

Cavanah said Career Services offers student employee training where campus workers can be trained on customer service and professionalism in the workplace.

“It’s important that students understand that what you’re learning can be important in the future,” Cavanah said. “Working on campus is a great opportunity.”