Tuesday, September 22, 2026 | 11:30 am to 1:30 pm | Burkle 130
Join Career & Professional Development at the CGU Open House to explore how we support your career growth from day one through graduation and beyond. Meet our team, learn about our services—including career advising, resume and CV development, interview preparation, and networking opportunities—and discover how CPD can help you navigate your academic journey with purpose and confidence. Stop by to connect, ask questions, and start building your career strategy early.
Pivot with Purpose: Positioning Yourself for Success
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 | 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm | Burkle 130
Making a career change can feel uncertain, but it’s also an opportunity to move forward with intention. In this focused workshop, students and alumni will learn how to navigate career transitions by assessing where they are, where they want to go, and how to get there. The session will cover practical approaches to shifting industries or roles, highlighting strengths, and positioning yourself effectively in a changing job market. Participants will leave with a clearer plan for managing career changes and taking purposeful next steps. Food and refreshments will be provided.
Student and Alumni Registration | External Registration
Academia Mock Interview Week
Monday, October 12th through Friday, October 16th, 2026 | Virtual
Information coming soon!
Career Treks: Stanley Black and Decker and ESRI
Step beyond the classroom and into the workplace with CPD’s Career Trek to Stanley Black & Decker’s Fontana location, and ESRI’s Redlands headquarters. This double-feature on-site visit offers a unique opportunity to explore careers within a global manufacturing, innovation-driven organization, and technology. During the visit, you will gain insight into day-to-day operations, learn about career pathways across functions, and hear directly from professionals about their experiences and advice. This is a valuable chance to build your understanding of industry roles, expand your network, and connect your academic work to real-world applications.
Questions? Email Michelle Ponce
Academia Summit: Navigating Careers in Higher Education
Explore the wide range of careers within higher education at the Academia Summit. This panel-style event will bring together professionals across faculty and adjunct roles to share insight into their career paths, day-to-day work, and experiences in academia. Whether you are considering a future as faculty or exploring roles beyond the professoriate, this event offers a valuable opportunity to better understand how different areas of higher education function and how to begin navigating your own path.
Career Exploration
The Foundation of Career Readiness | Skills and Competencies in Action
Career readiness is a foundation from which to demonstrate requisite core competencies that broadly prepare the college educated for success in the workplace and lifelong career management (NACE, 2024). Recognizing and acknowledging your talent and skills is key to articulating them to the external world. This workshop will an interactive space to explore your skills and put them into context within a resume and interviewing environment.
In Collaboration | School of Arts & Humanities
Slide Deck (PDF)
Conversations About The Future
This workshop will encourage students to think about the importance of their academic and professional futures by discussing and developing their academic, professional, and personal goals. This will include information about working in the United States. Finally, it will allow students to practice more advanced levels of English such as the future-conditional tense.
In Collaboration | International Scholars Program | Student Life, Diversity & Leadership
Slide Deck (PDF)
Engage | Breathe | Succeed
The Career and Professional Development office seeks to empower students and alumni by encouraging them to pursue a career inspired by their individual visions. This workshop will introduce the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and succeed in your career development journey. Engage and envision your career!
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Navigate and Engage | Your Career Journey
Engage in your career journey as you navigate your academic journey. Are you seeking a new industry or establishing a succession in your industry? The Career and Professional Development office is a full comprehensive career center that will guide, coach, and empower you to articulate your accomplishments and establish connections. Join us today to learn more about how to engage in your journey.
In Collaboration | Office of Student Engagement
Slide Deck (PDF)
Harnessing Emotional Intelligence in Your Career
Emotional Intelligence is highly valued by employers in the current job market. Identify desirable Emotional Intelligence traits for employability and leadership.
Slide Deck (PDF)
Is it time for a career change? What’s stopping you?
Have you been contemplating a career change? Is it time to make a move? Looking for a different industry to spread your wings? This can sometimes feel daunting and ominous. This workshop with Career and Professional Development, will help reevaluate your career journey while focusing on your values.
Slide Deck (PDF)
Purpose by Design: Mapping Your Professional Career Identity
Finding career direction begins with centering yourself. In this creative and experiential workshop, students will engage in a structured mandala exercise where they will visual their professional identity by moving from broad life purpose to focused career alignment. Through guided reflection and discussion, participants will clarify and identify core values, what they want, and what matters. Participants will leave with a greater insight into what drives them and how to align their career choices accordingly.
In Collaboration | Claremont Flourishing Center
Career Search Strategies and Techniques
AI Powered Job Search: Leveraging Technology for Career Success
Embark on a transformative journey with our workshop: ‘AI-Powered Job Search: Leveraging Technology for Career Success.’ In this dynamic session, we’ll explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of job hunting. Discover the latest tools and techniques designed to streamline your search process, optimize your resume, and uncover hidden opportunities in the digital job market.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
CPT and OPT Workshop
This workshop on Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) is open to all current F-1 students. Find out about these two important forms of off-campus work authorizations for F-1 international students. Bring your questions!
In Collaboration | Student Life Diversity & Leadership
Slide Deck (PDF)
How to Prepare Your Job Search as an International Student
Learn about the post-completion employment authorization, Optional Practical Training (OPT), and useful tips to keep in mind while searching for off-campus employment. You will also have the opportunity to hear from currently employed international students.
In Collaboration | Student Life, Diversity & Leadership
Slide Deck (PDF)
Psychology Pathways: Your Internship Journey
Join us for an engaging workshop hosted by Psi Chi and the Career and Professional Development office, designed specifically for psychology students. Learn how to craft effective resumes and CVs, explore internship opportunities, and gain valuable insights into launching your career in psychology. Whether you’re seeking internships or preparing for a career in academia, this workshop will equip you with the tools and insights you need to stand out in the competitive job market.
In Collaboration | Psi Chi
Slide Deck (PDF)
Thriving in Uncertain Times: Navigating Careers in a Shifting Economy
In an ever-changing job market, how can you stay competitive and resilient? “Thriving in Uncertain Times” will equip you with strategies to navigate economic shifts, adapt to new career opportunities, and build long-term stability. Join us to gain insights on market trends, recession-proof career planning, and the skills needed to succeed in any economic climate. Food and refreshments will be provided.
Slide Deck (PDF)
Industry Summit | Tech Forward: Real Conversations. Real Connections
Join us for Tech Forward: Real Conversations. Real Connections, an interactive Information Systems & Technology Industry Summit that explores how AI and human creativity are redefining industries, careers, and the future of innovation. Hear from visionary leaders across technology, business, and academia as they share insights on AI-driven transformation, ethical innovation, and the new skills shaping tomorrow’s workforce. Following the panel, continue the conversation in an interactive networking session, where graduate students and professionals will connect one-on-one to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and imagine how human-centered AI can drive meaningful impact in a rapidly changing digital world.
In Collaboration | CISAT, Upsilon Pi Epsilon
Industry Summit | An Entrepreneur Conversation: Turning Ideas into Impact
Are you ready to ignite your entrepreneurial spirit? Join us for an engaging evening with alumni who’ve carved their own paths as entrepreneurs. Hear firsthand how they launched their ventures, overcame challenges, and built meaningful careers. Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own business or looking to strengthen your entrepreneurial mindset, this panel will offer invaluable insights, practical advice, and real-world wisdom.
Following the panel, enjoy a dynamic networking session where you can connect directly with our alumni, ask questions, share your aspirations, and build relationships that could shape your future. Light refreshments provided
In Collaboration | Jay Prag, Professor | Drucker School of Management
Document Review
Crafting Your Professional Story: Resumé and CVs Workshop
Join us for our interactive workshop on crafting your professional story. Learn the art of creating impactful resumes and CVs that showcase your skills and experiences effectively. Gain valuable insights and enhance your chances of landing your dream career. Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your professional narrative.
Slide Deck (PDF)
Resumes | CVs | Cover Letters, Oh My!
Learn strategies to showcase and articulate your accomplishments. The focus will be on design and content of resumes, CVs, and cover letters with a distinction honing in on the differences between them. Let this professional connection be a solid one!
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Teacher Philosophy Statement Preparation Workshop
A teaching philosophy statement (TPS) allows a hiring committee to get a concise sense of your personal values and beliefs about education. In this webinar, we discussed ways to craft your TPS to highlight your journey as an educator by showcasing your background, values, and approach to teaching.
In Collaboration | Preparing Future Faculty
Slide Deck (PDF)
Resume Rescue: Build a Legendary Resume/CV
Is your resume/CV in need of a rescue? Transform it into a standout document that captures attention. Join us for a workshop where you’ll learn essential tips and techniques to create a legendary resume/CV. Perfect for anyone looking to make a powerful impression on potential employers. Food and refreshments will be provided.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Youtube) | Video (Stream) | Worksheet
Resume Lab: From Draft to Final
Join Career & Professional Development and Student Life, Diversity & Leadership for Resume Lab: From Draft to Final, a hands-on working session designed to help you actively build, revise, and refine your resume or CV. This interactive workshop provides dedicated time and guided support to strengthen your content, translate experience into clear bullet points, and tailor your materials for different opportunities. Bring your resume or CV and leave with meaningful progress toward a polished final draft.
In Collaboration | Student Life, Diversity, & Leadership
Interviewing
Virtual Mock Interview Week (Annual)
CGU’s Virtual Mock Interview Week is a signature event held in the Spring of every year.
💼 Outcomes
- Practice interview skills
- Connect with experienced professionals across industries
- Receive personalized feedback to help you shine in future interviews
Interview Skills: How to Ace Your Next Interview
Looking to ace your next interview? Learn the tools to stand out in your next job interview and gain strategies for answering tough questions, highlighting your strengths, and making a lasting impression. Whether you’re preparing for your first interview or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide valuable insights and practical tips to boost your confidence and increase your chances of success.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Marketing Leadership Experience
Have you ever had contemplated the best strategies to articulate your leadership competencies? In this workshop, we will share with you steps to communicate the unique skills in an interview and on your resume. Get ready to stand-out as an applicant who can express and highlight their unique leadership skills!
In Collaboration | Student Life, Diversity & Leadership
Slide Deck (PDF)
Unlocking Career Insights: The Power of informational Interviews
Welcome to our empowering workshop: ‘Unlocking Career Insights: The Power of Informational Interviews.’ Dive into an immersive experience where you’ll discover the transformative potential of informational interviews in shaping your career trajectory. Explore the art of networking and learn how to effectively connect with industry experts, gain firsthand knowledge about different career paths, and uncover hidden opportunities.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Ace the Interview: Mastering Skills for Career Success*
Ready to stand out in your next interview? Join us for an interactive workshop where you’ll discover proven strategies, practice essential techniques, and build the confidence to make a lasting impression. Whether you’re new to interviewing or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will help you present your best self and take the next step in your career journey.
🗣️ Learn. Practice. Shine.
🎯 Build confidence and communicate your value.
💼 Turn interviews into opportunities.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Networking and Brand Management
Branding | Networking | 30-Second Pitch
Review techniques to populate and use your LinkedIn account. Learn strategies to articulate your accomplishments. Let’s create, practice, and share your 30-Second pitch for when that moment happens.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Your Digital Brand | Your Professional Development
This workshop will guide you to understand your digital brand and your professional brand. We will delve through the world of digital communication as well as the development and maintenance of a Personal Board of Directors.
In Collaboration | Office of Student Engagement
Slide Deck (PDF)
Elevator Pitch Workshop
In this workshop we will create, practice, and share our unique 30-second pitches. This workshop will help you succinctly communicate your accomplishments and goals when networking.
In Collaboration | First Year Experience
Slide Deck (PDF)
Speed Networking
Develop your networking skills and connect with students, faculty, and staff. Networking can be daunting and often perpetuates the idea that one must be a certain type of person to do it well. In this event, we will navigate the misconceptions and help students practice authentic expression in the workplace. Engage this topic through a positive psychology lens.
In Collaboration | PsyDays
Slide Deck (PDF) | 30 Second Pitch Worksheet (PDF)
Mastering Professional Protocol: Essential Etiquette for Success
Delve into the intricacies of workplace etiquette and discover how mastering professional protocols can elevate your career journey. Explore the dos and don’ts of workplace interactions, from effective communication and networking to proper attire and dining etiquette. Gain practical insights and actionable tips to navigate various professional settings with poise and professionalism, setting yourself apart as a true professional in any situation.
Slide Deck (PDF)
Growing Together: Nurturing the Mentor-Mentee Relationship
A dynamic event that explores the power of mentorship. Discover the keys to fostering meaningful connections, gaining invaluable guidance, and unlocking your full potential.
In Collaboration | Center for Academic & Faculty Excellence
Dr. M. Gloria González-Morales | Shelby Lamar
Slide Deck (PDF)
Establishing Your Personal Board of Directors
This workshop engages students and alumni with strategies to establish and maintain relationships with mentors and methods to evolve into a successful mentee. Mentors offer unique perspective to the trajectory of one’s lifelong career journey.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Establish a Personal Board of Directors worksheet (PDF)
Career Savvy: Navigating Professional Etiquette and Communication
Elevate your professional presence with our engaging workshop. Learn the essentials of business etiquette and effective communication to confidently navigate the workplace. Gain valuable insights and practical tips on professionalism in networking and business interactions. Make a positive impression and build strong professional relationships.
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Youtube) | Video (Stream)
Own Your Style: Networking Strategies for Neurodivergent Thinkers
Join us for an empowering presentation that explores networking strategies tailored for diverse thinking styles. This interactive session will transform the way you approach networking by providing practical strategies that honor your unique strengths while navigating academic and future professional environments with confidence.
Slide Deck (PDF)
Let’s Grow Places: Stay Sharp, Plant Succulent Social
Join us for a hands-on succulent planting social as we celebrate Graduate Appreciation Week! Take a well-deserved break, connect with fellow grad students, and create your own mini succulent garden to remind you to stay sharp and keep growing. All supplies provided — just bring your creativity and good vibes!
In Collaboration | Office of Student Engagement
Offer Negotiation and Financial Literacy
Know Your Worth: Mastering Negotiation Power
This exclusive event will provide attendees with practical strategies and insights to enhance their negotiation skills, both in professional settings and everyday life. Learn how to assess and communicate your value, navigate complex negotiations, and leverage your strengths to achieve better outcomes. Whether you’re negotiating a salary, a partnership, or a business deal, this session will equip you with the tools to confidently advocate for your worth and maximize your potential. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the foremost authorities in the field and take your negotiation skills to the next level. Connect more with Stephen via his book Pushing Up.
In Collaboration | Stephen Gilliland, University Professor
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
The Ominous World of Finances
What is your relationship with money??? Offer negotiation can be intimidating and confusing. Learn methods to navigate an employment offer. This workshop will cover many layers and the overall understanding of 401k, 403b, Roth IRA’s, salary status, and how to best negotiate the entire offer package.
In Collaboration | Jason Siegel, Psychology Professor
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Negotiating Your Offer Letter
Learn how to negotiate employment terms and compensation for new opportunities. This workshop will introduce strategies and appropriate points of discussion when responding to offers of employment.
In Collaboration | Human Resources
Slide Deck (PDF) | Video (Stream)
Cigna | Shivani Kakade, MBA, MPH ’21 | Health Engagement Consultant, Senior Analyst
Shivani Kakade, a healthcare consultant at Cigna, renowned for her unique blend of expertise in both public health and business administration. Holding an MPH from the School of Community & Global Health and an MBA in Healthcare Management from the prestigious Peter Drucker & Masatoshi Ito Management School at Claremont Graduate University, she is a true trailblazer in her field.
Video (YouTube)
Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Ice Cream | Tamara Keefe, MBA ’08 | CEO and Flavor Temptress
Tamara Keefe is the CEO and Flavor Temptress at Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Ice Cream. Tamara has an appreciation for ice cream and what it represents: community and moments of connection. Her life’s journey from a girl born into an economically disadvantaged family – growing up on food stamps – to a self-made ice cream entrepreneur is nothing short of extraordinary.
Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Elizabeth Ribons | Consultant, Entrepreneur, Speaker
Elizabeth began launching small businesses early, applying a life-centric approach and working across disciplines throughout her career. She did this through identifying trends and unmet needs in the market. She successfully introduced products and services, engineering the business to work with the landscape of the time, her unique capabilities, and her lifestyle. She is an entrepreneur, innovator, host, mentor, and speaker.
Video (Youtube) Video (Stream)
K2 Financial | Kevin Kurimoto, CFA, CFP®, MS | Financial Advisor, Partner
From dissecting 10K reports to guiding clients through financial puzzles, they are true masters of the craft. Discover the art of financial planning and gain insights. This career chat will focus on the ominous world of finances. Dive into advisors and analysts career paths; psychology of investing and address the emotional side of money; risk aversion, rationale investor including saving, investing and your future self.
Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Learn how Lucie Leung-Gurung, co-owner of Innovation & Intersection Associates, LLC, began her consulting journey and now leverages her expertise in community health and leadership to drive solutions that uplift underrepresented communities and inspire future entrepreneurs.
In Collaboration | School of Community and Global Health
Miller Kaplan and Tipping Point Strategists | Paul Jan Zdunek, MBA ’14| COO
After a decade-long career as an orchestra conductor, Paul Jan Zdunek brings over 20 years of C-Suite experience providing business leadership and advisory services for both for-profit companies and charitable organizations. He has been a business transformation advisor, change management leader and interim executive for institutions requiring financial or organizational revitalization.
Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Niagara Bottling | Keyur Lad, MBA ’21 | Category Manager
Gain insights into the dynamic world of procurement, corporate growth, and the art of reinventing oneself! Learn how Keyur pivoted from manufacturing operations to procurement within a corporate landscape and discover his insights on adaptability, decision-making, and strategic growth.
Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
University of Hawai’i at Manoa | Jake Ryann Sumibcay, DrPH ’22 | Assistant Professor
Join us for a candid conversation with Jake Ryann Sumibcay, a proud alumnus of Claremont Graduate University’s School of Community and Global Health.
As an Assistant Professor of Health Policy and Management at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Jake has carved a successful path in the field of public health. Learn about his personal journey, from his time at CGU to his current role as a leading researcher and educator.
Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
Workday | Naomi Grewal, PhD Psychology ’13 | Director of Research
Naomi is the Director of Research at Workday and a proud alum of Claremont Graduate University. Fueled by her passion for cognitive psychology, she has immersed herself in the realm of big tech research for over the past decade.
Video (Stream) | Video (YouTube)
School of Arts and Humanities Alumni Career Chat Panel
Join us for an insightful Career Chat Panel featuring distinguished alumni and experts in writing, rhetoric, and academia. Hosted in collaboration with the School of Arts & Humanities (SAH), this panel will explore career paths in writing centers, academic administration, and adjacent fields, offering valuable advice and perspectives for graduate students interested in these dynamic areas.
Panelists:
- Dr. Marcus Weakley (PhD in Philosophy/Religion ’17), Director of the Center for Writing & Rhetoric at CGU
- Dr. Glenn Simshaw (PhD in English ’09), Director of the Writing Center, Assistant Professor of Writing at Scripps College
- Dr. Megan Davidson (Gallagher) (PhD in English ’18), Director of the Center for Writing and Public Discourse (CWPD), Visiting Professor of Literature at CMC
- Dr. Natalie Hewitt (PhD in English ’15), Dean, College of Arts and Sciences; Professor of English and Accreditation Liaison Officer at Hope International University
Whether you’re considering a career in writing centers, academic administration, or want to learn more about these fields, this event will provide valuable insights and networking opportunities. Don’t miss out on the chance to hear from successful professionals who have shaped their careers in academia and beyond!
In Collaboration | School of Arts and Humanities
From Graduation to the Front of the Classroom: SAH Alumni Faculty Forum
Hear firsthand from recent graduates now serving as faculty across Southern California’s universities and colleges. This dynamic panel will share insights on landing and thriving in academic roles, offer candid career advice, and reflect on their journeys from CGU commencement to the classroom.
Panelists:
- Dr. Sana Tayyen (’14), University of Redlands
- Dr. James Yuile (’25), Hope International University
- Dr. Kiandra Jimenez (’23), Norco Community College
- Dr. Erika Travis (’17), California Baptist University
- Dr. Berniece Alspach (’17), California Baptist University
- Dr. Shayda Kafai (’14), Cal Poly Pomona
- Dr. Henry Lesperance (’25), Palomar College
- Dr. Melanie Lindsay (’22), Moreno Valley College
- Dr. Ambereen Dadabhoy (’08), Harvey Mudd College
Whether you’re preparing for a faculty job search, exploring what it takes to thrive in academic roles, or looking to connect with experienced educators, this event offers practical insights and meaningful connections. Don’t miss the chance to engage in candid career conversations, reflect with peers, and enjoy refreshments in good company!
In Collaboration | School of Arts and Humanities
Charting a Career in Finance | Kevin Kurimoto, CFA, CFP®
Are you exploring a career in financial planning, investment management, or wealth management? Join us for an exclusive workshop with Kevin Kurimoto, CFA, CFP®, Lead Advisor and Chief Investment Officer at K2 Financial. Kevin will share his personal journey through the finance industry—from interpreting complex 10K reports to advising clients on long-term financial strategies. With dual credentials as a Chartered Financial Analyst® and Certified Financial Planner™, he brings a unique perspective on how to blend analytical rigor with client-centered planning. Whether you’re just starting to explore finance or already planning your next move, Kevin’s experience will offer valuable guidance and inspiration.