Career Architecture &
Information Technology

How will Career Architecture help you as a Business Information Systems or Computer Information Systems major at SU? Here are some suggestions from our IT faculty:

SELF DISCOVERY

  • Be able to think logically in computer coursework
  • Keep up-to-date on new technologies through websites and magazines
  • Get involved on campus through Co-Ops, being a computer lab-aide, joining the Association for Information Technology Professionals (AITP), or Phi Beta Lambda (National Business Organization)
  • Review areas of interest in the computer field
  • Maintain professionalism 
  • Communicate through excellent oral and written skills
  • Have leadership skills and a creative mind for group projects

CAREER DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATIONS

  • Create a career strategic plan
  • Expose yourself to the various jobs in the IT field 
  • Start networking in the IT field -- interact with people in the field to make yourself "known"
  • Select electives carefully to expand your knowledge in business background
  • Be comfortable speaking to groups. Your job may consist of holding meetings in the future.
  • Think about future education. Is there a possibility for obtaining a masters?

CAREER EXPLORATION

  • Participate in internships or Co-Ops to gain hands-on experience
  • Search all possible fields of interest with the help of the internet
  • Join professional organizations in the IT field
  • Attend job fairs to find careers in your area
  • If uncertain about a specific career, use SIGI PLUS , a self-assessment tool on campus computers to find the right career path for you

CAREER PREPARATION

  • Have someone critique your resume for spelling and grammatical errors
  • Always have an up-to-date resume ready. You never know when you'll have a last minute job opportunity.
  • Career HQ's mock interviews will help you prepare for your first "big" interview
  • Have a few close mentors, on and off campus, that will be able to write recommendation letters for you to companies and organizations  
  • Think about certificate programs such as Microsoft Certified programs : Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA)
   
 

What is Career ArchitectureSM?

Career ArchitectureSM is a unique process that enables each Stevenson student to create a successful and rewarding career path. Starting in the freshman year, students begin working with faculty and staff to design a strategic career plan based on their personal interests, values, strengths, and abilities. Career Architecture includes four elements: Self-Discovery, Career Development Foundations, Career Exploration, and Career Preparation. Not only does the knowledge gathered during the Career Architecture process help SU students land their first jobs; it serves for the lifetime of their careers.