WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS) is expanding opportunities for students to strengthen their career prospects and build meaningful connections. This fall, CAPS is offering two initiatives that work together to support professional growth: the Career Compass Series returns September 24 and the newly launched CAPS Career Community will host its first roundtable discussion on September 17.
Career Compass Series: Expert Guidance at Lunchtime
Held from noon to 1 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month, the Career Compass Series gives students practical strategies for career development, job searches, and career transitions.
The first session of the semester will be on September 24, featuring Evan Keil, Senior Associate Director of Alumni Networks at Washington University. Keil will introduce WashU CNX, the university’s online networking and mentorship platform. CNX connects students to alumni across industries and geographies—an opportunity to explore career advice, mentorship, and professional connections.
On October 22, the CAPS Career Compass series returns with Goal Getters: Strategies for Career and Personal Success through SMART Goals and Long-Term Road Maps. Team of Seven Consulting, LLC, founder and CEO Rachel Wilkins will help participants define SMART goals and lead an interactive exercise to practice the framework, define vision and create milestones along a long-term road map and timeline.
Elisha Newsome, a Senior Managing Consultant at Beacon Hill Solutions Group, will lead the November 19 CAPS Career Compass session. This session will provide insider strategies directly from a hiring professional who understands what employers are really looking for. Newsome will help participants strengthen their applications, sharpen interview skills and stand out in a competitive market.
Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your professional network.
CAPS Career Community: A New Space for Connection
Launching this fall, the CAPS Career Community gives students a dedicated space to connect with each other, share experiences, and get practical advice from peers and professionals. Through a Teams channel and monthly roundtable sessions held on the third Wednesday of each month at noon, the community makes it simple to ask questions, exchange ideas, and build relationships that last beyond the classroom.
“The CAPS Career Community is a resource designed to connect modern learners with the tools, insights and professional networks needed to thrive in today’s competitive workforce,” said CAPS Career Specialist Jaquelin Meaders Booth. “By joining, learners gain access to a supportive environment where career development is tailored to the unique needs of working adults.”
She said the new initiative is designed to provide a space for meaningful dialogue, practical strategies and peer-to-peer learning on topics that directly impact career growth and success.
“These conversations not only offer guidance from experts but also foster collaboration, networking and the exchange of real-world experiences that empower learners to take actionable steps toward their goals,” said Meaders Booth. “For the modern learner balancing work, school and life, the CAPS Career Community offers a valuable opportunity to stay informed, connected and prepared for the next stage of their professional journey.”
This semester’s discussions include:
- September 17: Introduction to the CAPS Career Community and available resources (join this conversation at noon here)
- October 15: Networking strategies with Gisele Marcus
- November 19: Job search tips with Elisha Newsome, Senior Recruitment Consultant
Be part of this new community from the start. Join the CAPS Career Community today:
Click here to join the CAPS Career Community Teams Channel