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Dear NIU Grad,
Frustration with the job search can often lead people to consider a career change. However, before changing careers, it might be helpful to take advantage of job search resources available to you as an NIU alumnus. Specifically, the Career Planning and Placement Center consults with alumni regularly on issues just like this. Dawn Jones (who served as a consultant for this response) is an excellent source for job search strategies for education majors - whether it's your first job or you are more experienced. If you are in the DeKalb area, you are welcome to set up an appointment by calling Dawn at 815-753-8337. She can look at your resume and suggest strategies for finding a job in your area. On the other hand, it is good to hear that you have ideas for your career development. In relation to gerontology, NIU offers a Certificate of Graduate Study in Gerontology. This is a 15 semester hour interdisciplinary program, offered through the College of Health and Human Sciences. It can be integrated with master's degree programs such as Adult and Higher Education. The gerontology program prepares people to provide direct services to older adults or to conduct research on adulthood and aging. Those who specialize in gerontology typically work in settings such as nursing homes, senior citizen centers, senior living centers, hospitals, and public health offices. Of course, gerontology is just one area that you can consider. You might want to consider talking with a career counselor to help you cultivate all your options into a specific career path. CSDC provides that kind of assistance for current students. If you are currently taking courses at NIU, feel free to call 815-753-1206 to set up an appointment. For alumni not taking courses, however, the Career Planning and Placement Center would be more appropriate. Call 815-753-1641 for an appointment. I hope this answers your questions, and I want to wish you good luck with your career development! Sincerely, Barb Wired |