FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions by Students 
- Questions About CDC’s Services & Resources
- Resume & Cover Letter Questions
- Career & Major Decision Questions
- Job Search Questions
Questions About CDC’s Services & Resources
Q: When should I start using the Career Counseling services at the CDC?
A: The earlier you get started, the better prepared you will be. Try to meet at least 1 time your first semester at UIS. Learn more about the Career Counseling Program
Q: How can I schedule a Career Counseling appointment?
A: You can self-schedule an appointment in CareerConnect by:
- Logging in to UIS CareerConnect (password required)
- Go to “Shortcuts” Menu- right side of screen
- Select “Schedule an Appointment with My Career Counselor” link
- Complete the information and select the time slot then click on “Submit”
- Look for email confirming appointment
Q: Who is eligible to use the services at the Career Development Center (CDC)?
A: All UIS students enrolled in a class can use CDC’s services and exclusive online systems.
Q: Do I have to pay to use the CDC services?
A: Services are free for students enrolled in the current semester due to paying student fees.
Q: Can I use the CDC’s services and resources if I took this semester off?
A: Yes, you can use the CDC’s services and online systems if you pay the required fee.
Q: What is the best way to find out what career events are scheduled?
A: See our calendar to find out upcoming events and workshops.
Resume & Cover Letter Questions
Q: Where can I get feedback about improving my resume and cover letter?
A: You can have your documents reviewed during a our Career Suite Walk-in/Drop-in Hours.
Q: How do I get information about writing resumes and cover letters?
A: There are a variety of ways get information about resumes and cover letters.
- Go to the CDC’s Resume and Cover Letter webpages
- Review resume and cover letter books located in the Career Resource Library
- Use the Resume or Cover Letter Builder module in OptimalResume
Career and Major Decision Questions
Q: I can’t decide on a major. What should I do?
A: There are several ways you can approach making a decision about your major.
- Schedule a meeting with a career counselor to begin the process
- Work through the Gain Self-Awareness Stage of the GOALS Program
- Complete the free Career Assessments located on the FOCUS Career Planning System
Q: How can I find out information about career paths that relate to my major?
A: Start by reviewing the Career Pathfinder Guide for your field of study.
Job Search Related Questions
Q: How can I find out what jobs connect with my major?
A: Get some ideas by going to “Career Pathfinders” located on the CDC’s website.
Q: I’m graduating this year, when should I begin my job search?
A: Begin developing a job search plan as soon as possible. View the Career Launch section of the GOALS Program to get started then meet with a career counselor.
Q. Where can I find information about salaries?
A. Go to the Salary and Negotiation webpage to learn about salaries and use the calculators.
Q. What are some good internet sites I can use to locate employment?
A. Visit our Job Links and Resources webpage and Career Pathfinder for relevant job boards.
Q. What should I do to prepare for upcoming interviews?
A. The CDC has many resources and services that you can use to prepare:
- Review the information and resources on our Interviewing webpage
- Begin practicing on the simulated online Interview Module located within OptimalResume
- Schedule a mock interview with a career counselor. How?
- Login to UIS CareerConnect (password required)
- Go to “Shortcuts” Menu- right side of screen
- Select “Schedule an Appointment with My Career Counselor” link
- Complete the information and select the time slot then click on “Submit”
- Look for email confirming appointment