FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions by Students

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