- Graduate Degrees
- Actuarial Science
- Bioethics
- Communications Practice
- Construction Administration
- Fundraising Management
- Information and Knowledge Strategy
- Landscape Design
- Narrative Medicine
- Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
- Sports Management
- Statistics
- Strategic Communications
- Sustainability Management
- Technology Management
- Certificates
- Noncredit Programs
- Postbaccalaureate Studies
- Programs List Page
Guidelines for Contacting SCE Alumni
Making contacts and building professional relationships is an essential part of any job or internship search. Networking with alumni is a good way to start making these connections. School of Continuing Education (SCE) alumni are not in a position to hand you a job, but rather they have volunteered to be a resource for you. Alumni are willing to exchange ideas with you, discuss your career path and provide guidance. You should use them appropriately and make developing professional relationships your primary goal.
Please adhere to the following set of guidelines as you reach out to SCE alumni:
- Conduct research to understand the background of the alumnus/a and their organization.
- Set expectations for yourself by outlining the information you would like to gain out of your initial correspondence.
- Include the following information in your initial email:
- Explain how you found the alum.
- Introduce yourself - your program, expected graduation date, and your current career status - are you exploring careers, doing industry research, or searching for a job?
- Specify what information you are looking for, such as information about their organization, industry tips, and job search techniques. You can also inquire about industry specific feedback on your resume. However, do not attach it to your initial email. It will look as if you are asking for a job. Convey how you would like to get that information whether through an in-person meeting or a phone conversation, at their convenience.
- Indicate how you will follow-up.
- Send a thank you note within 24 hours of your meeting or conversation. Be sure to include any steps you took as a result of your meeting with them. For instance, contacting additional professionals they recommended, joining a professional association, or reading an article they suggested.
- If the alumnus/a is interested in helping you beyond your initial meeting or conversation, keep in touch with them regularly to make your relationship stronger.