That’s what Rachel Kahn, Unity College’s new Director of Career Services, aims to do as she takes on this role.
In her new role, Kahn will work to help students find relevant unpaid and paid internships that will provide a competitive advantage as they move toward their first career, give them direct access to interviews for career options, and in the long-term, support sustainable entrepreneurs who will graduate from Unity and follow their passion.
“Career Services has traditionally been a very internal office on college campuses, and it’s always been about going and helping students with resumes, cover letters, and job applications,” Kahn said. “My goal is to build more partnerships and create more pathways for students to have a competitive advantage when they graduate. One key is ensuring students have as many opportunities to engage with professionals as possible, not only during their senior year or internships, but throughout their entire time with Unity College.”
Kahn brings with her a broad knowledge of all types of student needs, having previously worked as Unity College’s Associate Director of Career Services, and having worked in financial aid, student accounts, admissions and student services at previous institutions. This experience gives her a uniquely holistic vision for supporting students. As college demographics continue to change, and more adult learners are looking to earn or finish their degrees online, Kahn’s own experience of earning her master’s degree enables her to understand the opportunities that those students are seeking.
“That’s one reason I really love working in career services,” Kahn said. “As our distance education audience continues to grow and diversify, it is critical that we offer an array of resources, support, and opportunities to serve those students and ensure they’re prepared to make the most of their Unity College education, regardless of what career path they choose. It’s about meeting the students where they are, and letting those distance education students know they are part of our community.”
“I believe that one of the most critical, and often overlooked positions at any institution of higher education is the Director of Career Services,” said Unity College President Dr. Melik Peter Khoury. “It’s important for students, as well as their families, to know that not only will they receive a quality education in college, but that they’ll also have the skills to enter the workforce or continue their education, and that they have options on the table. In her time here, Rachel has done some incredible work, particularly with our transfer students, and I’m looking forward to seeing what she does in this new role.”
“Hiring Rachel is part of a larger strategy of the advancement team to look at the entire life cycle of our students,’ said Erica Hutchinson, Chief Advancement Officer. “From getting them meaningful internships as students, helping them get their first, second, and third jobs or preparing for graduate school as alumni – to becoming employers themselves and offering internships and jobs for our future students. You can see this happening already at our Environmental Career Fair each year – New England’s largest – with many alumni coming back to Unity to look for employees from among our student body.”
Statistically speaking, 92 percent of Unity College alumni are employed or pursuing additional education within six months of graduation, with 2.3 percent joining the military or committing to volunteering or internship opportunities. Unity College alumni also report that 98 percent are enjoying or finding purpose in their work.
“It’s a great starting point,” added Kahn, “and I’m hoping that we can continue to help our graduates — both four-year traditional students and online learners — find those fulfilling opportunities.”