The transition from college to a successful career is a journey many students navigate with anticipation and perhaps a touch of uncertainty. Randolph-Macon College recognizes this pivotal phase and has established the Edge Career Program to equip students with the resources, skills, and network necessary to not just enter the professional world, but to excel. The experiences of Randolph-Macon College alumni vividly illustrate the transformative impact of the Edge Career Program. Let’s explore how this program has been instrumental in shaping successful career paths.
Isabella Wadsworth, a Communication Studies graduate from the class of 2021 and an alumna of the University of Richmond School of Law, credits the Edge Career Program with opening doors to crucial internships. These experiences were not just resume builders; they were instrumental in solidifying her interest in the intersection of business and law. Beyond internships, the Edge program facilitated connections with successful alumni, creating a network of trusted mentors who continue to guide her professional journey. For Isabella, the Edge was more than a program; it was a launchpad.
Korey Turner, a 2020 Business graduate with a concentration in Finance, now working as an Investment Analyst at the Virginia Retirement System, highlights the Edge Career Program’s role in preparing him for life after college. Starting from his freshman year, Korey proactively engaged with the Edge Career Center, working closely with professionals like Cathy Rollman to craft a compelling resume that captured the attention of internship providers. He emphasizes that the professional development and preparation he received were direct catalysts in landing his dream job. The Edge program, for Korey, was about proactive career sculpting, ensuring he was job-market ready.
Austin Fortier, from the class of 2020 with majors in Religious Studies and Spanish, and currently a Regional Sales Executive at ePac Flexible Packaging, points to the Edge Career Program’s practical approach to career development. He directly benefited from career and internship fairs organized by the Edge, securing an internship that directly transitioned into his current role. Austin values the personalized coaching he received, from interview preparation to refining his resume and professional narrative. He strongly recommends that all students engage with the Edge program early in their college journey to unlock significant benefits. For Austin, the Edge program was a bridge connecting academic learning to real-world career opportunities.
Madeleine Purcell, a 2019 Biology graduate now attending the University of Maryland School of Medicine, underscores the Edge Career Program’s influence in solidifying her passion for medicine and providing invaluable experiences. Through the Edge program, Madeleine secured a crucial internship that allowed her to shadow various medical fields, gaining firsthand experience with physicians and patient care. She also found a scribe position through the Edge, which helped her master medical terminology and prepare for the rigors of medical school. Furthermore, the Edge program facilitated a connection with her research mentor, Dr. Jim Foster, leading to significant research skills development and publications in prestigious journals like PLOS Genetics and Nature Medicine. Madeleine states unequivocally that the Edge program was instrumental in her acceptance and success in medical school. For Madeleine, the Edge program was a catalyst for her medical career, providing both practical experience and research opportunities crucial for her advancement.
These alumni testimonials collectively highlight the Edge Career Program as a cornerstone of student success at Randolph-Macon College. It’s not just about finding a job after graduation; it’s about career development, mentorship, and gaining real-world experience that sets RMC graduates apart. The Edge Career Program is designed to give students a competitive edge in the job market, ensuring they are not just prepared, but positioned for success in their chosen fields.
