No matter if a Digital Works participant is getting close to the hiring process or is already graduated and working, their connection with other students and staff does not fade. In fact, it grows stronger. A vital element of the program’s success is the ongoing effort by both program Digital Works’ staff and fellow graduates in assisting and mentoring newly hired trainees.That’s why graduates are a part of the Digital Works community long after they’ve gotten their first job.
“Digital Works staff remains in contact with graduates to measure and monitor performance and job satisfaction in addition to providing advancement coaching. Graduates will receive periodic outreach, monthly newsletters, and invitations to attend ongoing support, networking and resource events including the online Think Tank Forum,” Heather Delany, Director of Operations for Digital Works, said.
Digital Works grads, current students and project directors
Graduates and current trainees never have to be alone in the job search process.
“It’s about guiding current class members toward a job that fits what they want. While providing general mentorship to participants, we also see them as individuals and do our best to match them with a company that can meet their particular schedule and pay needs,” Digital Works graduate Penny Rowland said.
“Sharing knowledge from graduate to graduate gives first-hand guidance and assurance to those who are already working and facing new challenges or graduates who are now searching for jobs.”
Graduates giving advice via webcam to recent DW grads
Part of creating such a rewarding graduate experience is to highlight success stories and to come together during events where graduates are celebrated for their successes. When graduates share their stories, they inspire current trainees or interested applicants to realize what they can achieve through Digital Works.
“Working graduates frequently attend Digital Works events to share their stories, challenges, and success tips with others directly. This is highly encouraged, and appreciated, as it is Digital Works program working graduates that are the experts on the partnering Digital Works opportunities. They are living it and working it on the front line,” said Delany.
About the Author: Rachel O’Morrow is a junior studying strategic communication at Ohio University in the E.W. Scripps
School of Journalism. Rachel’s areas of interests are public relations, digital marketing, as well as creating branded content. She writes for several Ohio University campus publications and is a Creative Head for the student-led public relations and advertising firm to help businesses reach their audience.