421 Addressing the diverse needs and career interests of animal sciences undergraduate students in a career preparations course

Abstract

Abstract Diverse career opportunities and interests exist for undergraduate students in animal sciences. Educational programs should expose students to diverse careers and prepare them personally and professionally for future success, though individualized opportunities and effectiveness for a large enrollment course is challenging. At Kansas State University, Animal Sciences Career Preparations is a compulsory course for junior or seniors (average enrollment=232). This one-credit course meets once/week with the overarching goal being to help students describe and “move forward” in their career goals. From 2013–18, to determine their intended career path, enrolled students (n = 1394) were asked at semester onset, “Which […] most closely characterizes what you expect to be doing (position/activity) within the 1st year following graduation from [college]?” Most students (32%) selected “Begin school in a college of veterinary medicine.” while 26% selected “Work for an agri-industry/biosciences business/organization.” Fifteen percent indicated, “Begin graduate school (Master of Science, Master of Business Administration, […])” Seven percent chose “Work on [their] family’s ranch/farm/feedlot” and 11% chose “Work for someone other than [their] family on a livestock production operation.” Nine percent selected “Other,” indicating careers with zoo/wildlife organizations or military, for example. Polishing resumes and cover letters, facilitated engagement with university career services, discussion of how social media can influence their career path, and consideration of benefits packages in job offers are examples of activities that all students engage in regardless of career goals. Students can select from several “tailored” assignments/activities specifically relevant to individual paths such as generational transition planning for students returning to family businesses, GRE exam preparation insight, and mock interview participation with businesses for jobs/internships or for admission to veterinary school. Providing flexible structure to course assignments and activities helps students progress in personal and professional preparedness yet allows exploration as students continue to navigate their paths and make career-related decisions.