NW Missouri Times

Northwest Missouri State University is providing a series of Career Pathing sessions this spring, aimed at supporting both students and employees in their personal and professional development. The initiative features workshops and activities led by university staff and external experts, focusing on skills relevant to the workplace.

The university offers about 1,200 student jobs across campus offices, giving students the chance to build their résumés. Through Career Pathing, student employees can further develop workforce skills and may qualify for pay increases. Employees also have access to these sessions as part of their professional growth.

Sessions are scheduled throughout the semester in the J.W. Jones Student Union Boardroom unless otherwise noted. Each session lasts 60 minutes.

The lineup includes topics such as digital wellness, budgeting, networking, navigating bias at work, understanding credit, leadership skills before obtaining formal titles, managing student loans while saving for the future, and mental health awareness through C.A.L.M. in Crisis training.

Linda Hoffey will lead a session on digital wellness titled "Digital Wellness: Reclaiming Your Focus," where participants will explore how technology affects brain function and habits. According to Hoffey: "In this fun and eye-opening session, explore how technology affects your brain, mood and habits — and walk away with a practical plan to build a healthier relationship with your device. Learn about why using your phone feels addictive, the science behind screen time and mental health, simple strategies to reduce stress and increase focus, and create a digital wellness plan that works for you."

US Bank is hosting several financial literacy workshops for students only. Topics include creating budgets—covering the 50/30/20 rule—and building credit responsibly: "Learn about the 50/30/20 rule, common budgeting mistakes and how to avoid them. Get behavioral science tips that are sure to make budgeting a little more fun and less overwhelming." Another workshop focuses on understanding credit basics: "Building credit doesn’t have to be confusing. Join US Bank for this interactive workshop designed to help Northwest students understand the basics of credit — what it is, why it matters and how to build it wisely." There is also guidance on managing student loans while saving for future goals: "Learn strategies and options for the repayment of college loans, plus things to consider saving for as you apply your strategy. Attendees also will review 'the rule of 72' and some savings versus investing comparisons."

Rhonda Travers will present on intentional networking: "Your first impression impacts your level of rapport and the way others perceive your credibility, personality and expertise. Learn to recognize ways to be intentional to make your minutes matter at networking events."

Dr. Shay Malone from Northwest’s Center for Engagement and Community Connection will address workplace mindsets: "This session focuses on new experiences and practices that support success throughout any career while exploring behaviors, perspectives, emotions, assumptions and biases that may affect professionals early in a career. Participants will reflect on their experiences and those of others in new settings and explore concrete ways to support new colleagues. Learn about tools and resources to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment and enable new professionals to be successful."

Dr. Claire Muselman’s session centers on developing leadership qualities before attaining formal titles: "Using insights from behavioral science, psychology and professional development research, Muselman brings an engaging, interactive approach to help attendees show up with confidence, communicate with clarity and amplify influence in everyday moments. Learn how to use your voice, body language and energy to create meaningful connections, build trust quickly and leave a lasting impression in interviews, internships, group projects, networking events and the classroom."

The C.A.L.M. in Crisis program is available for both students as well as faculty/staff members through Wellness Services. The training aims at helping campus community members identify mental health concerns among students by improving awareness of risk factors associated with suicide: "This program is designed to assist the campus community with identifying students with mental health concerns. The training focuses on improving awareness of risk factors and warning signs for suicide, recognizing and responding, referring to available resources, ways to offer hope, and the importance of managing personal wellness throughout the process." After completing both online training camp components (one hour) within two weeks prior plus an in-person session (2.5 hours), participants receive certification.

All sessions require registration online; details are available through Northwest Missouri State University channels.