Written by Katie Shpak, University Writer
Post Alumnus Kadeem Short secured his desired internship opportunity while taking College to Career 301 – Professional Success Seminar during his senior year. Before completing his degree, he interned at American Red Cross in New York City, where he was involved in service delivery and was acclimated to the day-to-day work of the non-profit organization. In the summer of 2019, Short graduated with his bachelor’s degree in emergency management and homeland security (EMHS).
Before enrolling in Post, Short spent eight years of service as a Navy Nurse Corps. He was indecisive about his initial career path, thinking he may be interested in nursing or pharmaceuticals. After some contemplation and researching degree options, Short developed this desire to one day work for FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), declaring his EMHS major. He was a hybrid student, taking courses online and on campus.
“The CTC class was instrumental in securing an internship with Red Cross,” said Short. “I really learned how to advance skills in writing different types of resumes, growing connections, communication skills and the importance of social media presence.”
Students in the Professional Success Seminar learn different styles of resumes, cover letters and follow-up thank you emails. In addition, the course covers mock interviews, personality assessments and effective networking techniques, as well as coaching in financial literacy.
“It was a pleasure having Kadeem as a student” shared Program Chair of College to Career Camille Dumont, who taught Kadeem’s professional seminar course. “He was participatory, engaged and truly interested in all of the lessons that went along with career readiness and success. He was communicative and had an earnest work ethic, intrinsic desire to learn and very motivated and excited about the prospect of finding an internship.”
Knowing that internships in college were an important way to jump-start his professional resume, Short discovered an opportunity at the American Red Cross.
In his CTC class, Short learned about applicant tracking technology software that is used by many employers to collect, sort, and rank the resumes they receive. The aim is to highlight the most qualified candidates for positions and can save time during the hiring process. To apply for the internship, Short created an ATS-friendly resume using the position description and role-specific keywords.
After graduating in the summer of 2019, he began a paid Emergency Management Veteran Program through The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. In July of 2020, Short became the Assistant to the Director of Office Emergency Management and Business Continuity Specialist for The Port Authority, maintaining consistent telecommunications and ensuring safe acclimation to necessary forms of transport.
“CTC 301 was definitely helpful with polishing my resume and getting me that first internship, which ultimately led me to where I am now,” said Short.
For more information about our College to Career courses, read this blog: Post University Courses Prepare Student For Career Success.