Professional Development Flex Course

Build your knowledge on professional development in order to master how to act online, in writing, and in person!

Entering the professional work force can be daunting - even for an experienced adult! I have had almost 10 years of experience sifting through resumes and interviewing potential candidates, and my experience has taught me what catches the eye, and what ends up in the garbage. I know you're busy as a high school student, which is why this is a FLEX class that can be done on your own schedule (each section will begin on Monday, and students will have a full week to complete the activities). There are four sections that students will be expected to "complete" over the course of four weeks, each with a different focus. The skills covered in this course can be used when applying to colleges and universities, and easily transferred into applying for a job, internship, or more. 

Section One: Resume Building 101. Join me for an in-depth look at resume building that goes beyond just picking the correct font and layout. Determine the individual sections that need to be listed. Learn how to choose certain key words and skills that are sure to keep your name at the top of the list. Identify the biggest mistakes one can make in this process. Recognize how to appropriately list your accomplishments on paper. 
- On Monday, I will post a video presentation about what makes for a good resume on the classroom portal. Students will then be given 3 example resumes that they must edit and correct based on the new information they have learned. Then they will submit their own resume to me for an overall review. Students will comment on each other's resumes about what they like and don't like about the document, and if it stands out. 

Section Two: Online/Email Etiquette. Maybe it's obvious to not abbreviate words and to use proper grammar in an email, or how to appropriately act in this modern age of internet. But for many young adults, it isn't! Review how to create a lasting and professional online presence through emails, websites, and social media profiles that can be admired by other industry professionals. 
- On the following Monday, I will post a video presentation about online etiquette on the classroom portal. Students will then have to draft three different email examples proving they understand proper etiquette based on three scenarios I will lay out for them in the portal. Students will then be assigned to comment and critique the other student's work. I will also edit and give feedback on their email examples. 

Section Three: The Importance of Networking. These days, "who you know" is just as important as "what you've done", so growing a professional network of contacts is vital. I personally landed my first big job simply by utilizing my network of connections and talking to the right people. We will cover why networking is so important, ways to grow your network, and what you can be doing right now to get started.
- On the following Monday, I will post a video presentation explaining my own experience with networking and why it is important on the classroom portal. Then, students will discuss how they wish to grow their own network. By sharing ideas on the portal, they will create a specific game plan on how they will personally begin networking in their community and in the industry they hope to individually pursue in the future. They will present this plan to me on the portal either through a video or by writing it out.

Section Four: Interviewing Skills. Whether this is your first or your hundredth interview, meeting with a potential employer (or admissions counselor) is nerve-wracking! How do you put your best foot forward, sound professional, and convey why they should want you? We will conduct a mock interview by reviewing common interview questions, and answering them honestly. 
- On the final Monday, I will create a detailed video presentation overviewing key elements of an interview and how to appropriately act and answer questions. Students will then be given 10 interview questions that they must answer by recording themselves and sending their answers (via a video) back to the teacher on the classroom portal. I will then give my final critiques on how they conducted themselves.

An emphasis on proper professional development is something that is not given enough focus in many high schools. But it is a highly undervalued skillset that you will continue to use and adapt throughout your entire professional life. If you start now, mastering this basic life skill will put you far beyond your peers on the professional playing field. For additional assistance on any of the above subject matters, or to schedule a more in-depth look at resumes or scheduling mock interviews, feel free to message me about private one on one tutoring.

My Classroom Policies are listed on my teacher profile page. Please message me with any questions or to schedule this class at a different time!