Navigating your career journey can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone! This Career Toolkit is designed to support you at every stage, whether you’re building your first resume, refining your professional presence, or preparing for interviews and salary conversations. Below, you’ll find practical guides, examples, and templates for resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, networking strategies, and interview preparation. The toolkit also includes resources for exploring graduate school and planning a gap year, helping you make informed decisions about your next steps.

Each section is built to be actionable and customizable, so you can adapt these resources to fit your goals, experiences, and interests.

Using AI Thoughtfully

The use of AI in and outside the classroom is often debated, yet it has become an essential skill for both learning and today’s job market. Many universities already incorporate AI tools into their curricula, and employers increasingly expect at least a basic level of familiarity. While ethical considerations, such as environmental impact and data usage, are important, AI can be used responsibly and thoughtfully as part of your professional development.

Within this toolkit, you’ll notice suggested ways to use AI through prompts and examples. AI can help you brainstorm ideas, organize your thoughts, improve wording, and check grammar. It can also assist in comparing your experiences to job descriptions or identifying areas to strengthen.

However, AI should never replace your voice. Your resume, cover letter, and professional materials should reflect your real experiences, motivations, and goals. Employers are not just evaluating your skills, they are trying to understand who you are and why you are interested in their organization.

AI cannot tell your story for you. It does not know your growth, challenges, or what makes you unique. If you choose to use AI, treat it as a support tool, not a substitute. Always review, edit, and ensure that everything you submit is accurate and authentically yours. Avoid copying and pasting without reflection.

Career Readiness Challenge

Connecting with the LAS Career Development and Internships Office was the best decision I made during my undergraduate journey. They are incredibly helpful and have connected me to so many great opportunities!

Jiselle Plata, '25