The Tools To Keep You Competitive
How to thrive in this economy
As college seniors everywhere face one of history’s most challenging job markets, The University of Toledo has a very important reminder: “Well-rounded students with hands-on experience have an advantage in today’s economy,” says Thomas Gutteridge, Dean of the UT College of Business Administration.
It’s a message that’s also important to underclassmen who have time to hone their skills while still in school. From pharmacy and nursing to education and engineering, UT students in every department are gaining the leadership skills, critical thinking abilities, and oral and written communication skills employers are seeking.
UT’s College of Business Administration one example of how students are becoming lifelong leaders. UT requires a careers class, which helps students choose majors and minors compatible with their skill sets. Another mandatory class teaches students how to write a resume, prepare for interviews and research companies. These classes, along with other opportunities such as a business etiquette dinner, prepare UT students for life after graduation.
Partnerships within the community
In addition to classroom learning, UT provides practical experience. “Our business students learn by doing. They know that to be successful, they have to dive in and get hands-on experience,” says Gutteridge. UT partners with surrounding professional centers and organizations to teach students about global competitiveness. Through workshops, seminars and internships, UT students gain business expertise. In return, the companies have a well-educated pool of students to choose from after graduation.
These partnerships also get students more involved in making the community a better place to live and work. “UT recognizes the importance of partnering with the region to make it more diverse and competitive,” says Gutteridge. “Today, a company will hire us to do a consulting project. Tomorrow, they may hire one of our soon-to-be-graduates for an internship or job. And the day after that, their employees may enroll in our executive MBA or professional MBA program.”
MBA Programs
In addition to preparing undergraduate students for the working world, UT also offers MBA classes. These programs are for individuals who are already working and are interested in advancing their skills and abilities. “Our programs are focused on giving people additional experience that will make them more competitive, no matter what undergraduate degree they hold,” says Gutteridge.
Developing lifelong leaders
UT is also expanding the College of Business Administration with the addition of The Savage & Associates Complex for Business Learning and Engagement. The new development will include 10 classrooms, five action learning labs, a boardroom, student breakout rooms and teleconferencing capabilities. This high-tech expansion, along with top-grade programs and community partnerships, will help UT students become leaders in the classroom and the working world. “Our goal is to give our students a foundation of skills and expertise so they have successful careers,” says Gutteridge.
Click here to learn more about how UT is preparing students to become lifelong leaders.
