Professional development is crucial for graduate students while preparing to enter their chosen field. Here are some tips to help graduate students enhance their skills and succeed in their academic and professional endeavors:

• Identify Career Goals: Take time to clarify your career aspirations and goals. Understanding where you want to go will guide your professional development activities.

  • Master's Student Career Planning Timeline 

  • Career Tips for First-Generation Grad Students

  • The Career-Savvy Graduate Student

• Attend Workshops and Seminars: Participate in workshops and seminars offered by your university or professional organizations. These events cover a range of topics from research skills to career preparation.

  • Association of College Unions International (ACUI) Seminars & Institutes

• Network with Peers and Professionals: Connect with fellow students, faculty members, and professionals in your field. Attend networking events, join student organizations, and build meaningful relationships.

  • 4 Solid Strategies for Expanding Your Professional Network

  • 14 Steps To Take To Build A Strong Professional Network

• Seek Professional Development Programs: Many universities offer professional development programs specifically designed for graduate students. Take advantage of these resources to hone your skills.

  • How to Find Professional Development Opportunities for Graduate Students
  • Scroll down to the Professional Organizations to view available resources

• Engage in Leadership Roles: Take on leadership roles in student organizations or committees. Leading initiatives demonstrates initiative and fosters valuable leadership skills.

  • Learn about the Graduate Student Senate and Graduate Students of Color Association at Merrimack 

• Seek Mentorship: Identify mentors—faculty members, senior students, or professionals—who can provide guidance and support in your academic and career pursuits.

  • How To Choose a Mentor in 5 Steps

  • What’s the Right Way to Find a Mentor?

• Publish and Present Research: Seek opportunities to publish papers and present at conferences. This not only enhances your academic profile but also develops your communication and networking skills.

  • Learn more about Merrimack ScholarWorks to learn about student publishing at Merrimack
  • Learn how you could be able to present your research at the annual Research & Creative Achievement Conference (RCAC) at Merrimack

• Prepare for Job Searches: As you near graduation, start preparing materials for job applications, such as CVs, cover letters, and portfolios. Utilize career services offered by the O'Brien Center for Career Development for guidance.

  • 3 Tips for Writing a Stellar Cover Letter for Jobs and Fellowships
  • Recruiter Tips: How to Write An Effective One-Page Resume

Benefits of Joining a Professional Organization

• Networking Opportunities: You'll meet like-minded professionals and expand your network, which can lead to valuable connections, mentorship, and career opportunities.
• Learning and Development: Many organizations offer workshops, webinars, and resources to help you enhance your skills and stay updated with industry trends.
• Career Advancement: Being part of a professional organization can enhance your credibility and visibility within your field, opening doors for promotions and leadership roles.
• Access to Resources: From job boards to industry reports, these organizations often provide exclusive resources that can be invaluable for your professional growth.
• Advocacy and Support: Some organizations advocate for their members' interests and provide support during challenging times, whether it's navigating industry changes or personal career challenges.
• Giving Back: Many organizations engage in community outreach and service projects, offering opportunities to make a positive impact beyond your daily work.

Community Engagement Professional Organizations:

• American Association for Access, Equity, and Diversity

• American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U)

• Association for Community Organization and Social Action (ACOSA)

• Association for Experiential Education 

• Boston Young Black Professionals 

• Engagement Scholarship Consortium (ESC)

• Food Recovery Network

• International Association for Research on Service-Learning and Community Engagement (IARSLCE).

• Massachusetts Nonprofit Network 

• NAACP

• National Association of Community Development Professionals

• National Association for Family, School, and Community Engagement 

• National Arts Education Association 

• National Community Development Association

• National Council of Nonprofits

• National Guild for Community Arts Education

• National Society for Experiential Education 

• National Urban League

Government

• Grants.gov

Higher Education

• Association for Experiential Education 
• Campus Compact
• Corporation for National & Community Service
• HigherEdJobs.com
• HigherEdJobs360.com
• Imagining America 
• National Society for Experiential Education 
• The Chronicle of Higher Education 

Nonprofits/NGOs

• American Evaluation Association 
• Council of Foundations
• EvaluationJobs.org 
• Devex.com
• Idealist.org
• Philanthropy News Digest

Arts Based & Social Movements

• Association for Community Organization and Social Action (ACOSA)
• National Arts Education Association 
• National Community Development Association
• National Guild for Community Arts Education

General Job Search Engines

• Get Work
• Glassdoor
• Flex Jobs
• Indeed
• Simply Hired 
• Simplify Jobs
• Ziprecruiter