Whether you’re exploring new career possibilities, searching for opportunities, or looking to expand your professional network, the United States Sports University Career and Internships Center is committed to guiding students and alumni toward their career aspirations. Our resources and services are designed to help you navigate today’s evolving job market with confidence.

Students and alumni are encouraged to utilize our comprehensive career services, specifically tailored for careers in the sports industry. Whether you’re considering a career transition or seeking professional development, our career advising services provide the tools and guidance needed to take the next step.

We offer personalized career support for job seekers at various stages. Networking and strategic research are essential for identifying career opportunities that align with your skills and interests. Our resources empower you to establish valuable connections, research potential employers, and stay informed about industry trends—whether you’re in Alabama or across the globe. Through the USSU Career and Internships Center, you can access job listings, explore companies, participate in career events, and connect with fellow alumni through CareerShift.

Alumni to Student Mentorship

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First Year

Students need time to transition from high school to college, and the first semester is crucial for building a strong academic foundation. Since first-semester grades impact overall GPA, students should prioritize coursework and campus life while gradually exploring career resources.

Spring Semester Goals for First-Year Students:

  • Register on CareerShift and with the school-based career center.
  • Join a student organization or activity to explore career interests.
  • Seek summer job or internship opportunities by:
    • Exploring listings on CareerShift, school-based career centers, and local organizations.
    • Identifying companies or organizations of interest near your summer location.
  • Review the Career Center’s Guide to:
    • Crafting effective resumes and cover letters.
    • Optimizing LinkedIn profiles for networking.
  • Develop a first draft of a college resume for summer jobs or internships.
  • Create or update your LinkedIn profile to begin professional networking.
  • Meet with a career advisor for resume and cover letter feedback.
  • Attend Industry Insights sessions to explore career fields.
  • Check the Career Center’s events page weekly and attend at least one career-related event.

Taking these steps early will help students gain valuable experience and make informed career decisions throughout their college journey.

Second Year Career Planning Guide

During their second year, students should explore their interests and gain hands-on experience in potential career fields. By sophomore year, students should feel more confident in their program of study and begin applying research skills to their personal career development, or “Project Me.”

  • Register on CareerShift and with the school-based career center
  • Learn more about industries to explore career options
  • Research internship opportunities and how they align with career goals
  • Update your resume and get it reviewed.
  • Attend fall and spring career fairs to connect with employers and learn about internships
  • Research and apply for internships or career-related part-time jobs
  • Increase involvement in student organizations or activities to develop career readiness skills
  • Enroll in an academic internship course if completing an unpaid internship for credit
  • Identify a professional association in your field of interest and consider joining as a student member

By actively engaging in these steps, students will gain valuable experience, build a professional network, and develop essential skills for future career success.

By their third year, students should focus on gaining practical experience, expanding their professional network, and preparing for full-time employment or graduate school.

  • Meet with a career advisor in their school-based career center or the Career Center early to check in on career goals
  • Update their resume
  • Attend fall  fairs to connect with employers and explore internship opportunities
  • Develop a list of potential full-time employers using CareerShift.
  • Conduct informational interviews with USSU alumni and industry professionals on LinkedIn to learn about career paths and the job search process
  • Research and apply for internships or career-related part-time jobs
  • Practice interview skills using Big Interview or schedule a mock interview with a career advisor
  • Considering graduate school? Visit the USSU Graduate School website, research schools, fellowships, and admission requirements
  • Participate in the annual fall semester Graduate Schools Fair

By taking these steps, students will be well-positioned for post-graduation success in their chosen career or advanced education path.

Senior year is a time for students to connect their academic, extracurricular, and work experiences to their career goals. While some students may have full-time job offers from internships, others may still be exploring their options. No matter where you are in the process, we are here to help!

  • Meet with a career advisor in their school-based career center or the Career Center early to discuss post-graduation plans
  • Update their resume and get it reviewed.
  • Attend fall and spring career fairs to connect with employers and explore job opportunities
  • Research employers and stay informed by reading industry publications
  • Conduct informational interviews with USSU alumni and professionals on LinkedIn to learn about career options and hiring trends
  • Practice interview skills using Big Interview or schedule a mock interview with a career advisor
  • Research and apply for full-time jobs
  • Maintain a balance between job searching and completing degree requirements while focusing on health and well-being
  • Prepare for life after college, including finances, by utilizing the Career Center’s personal finance resources
  • Considering a gap year? Explore Gap Year Preparation resources

Note: Hiring cycles vary by industry. Large employers in fields such as investment banking, consulting, big tech, and accounting often hire full-time employees through summer internship programs and conduct fall recruitment for remaining openings. Smaller and mid-sized organizations, as well as industries like non-profits, communications, entertainment, and real estate, typically hire year-round, often in the spring when their hiring needs become clearer.

After graduation, students can continue utilizing the Career Center’s resources as recent graduates and alumni. The USSU Career and Internships Center offers lifelong career support and a strong alumni network to help navigate professional growth

Undergraduate Career Development Timelines

Graduate Career Development Timelines

Master's

Career Help for Master’s Students

Make the most of your career while studying at USSU. Whether you are looking for an academic or professional job, our resources can help you move forward. As a student, you have access to various services, including CareerShift, advising, workshops, and career events.

  • Prepare for Your Job Search
    Before you apply for jobs, take steps to improve your job search. Here are some actions to help build a solid foundation for your career:
    Set clear career goals and learn about industry trends.
    Update your resume and cover letter with help from USSU Career Services.
  • Grow your professional network through informational interviews and industry contacts.
  •  Improve your online presence by enhancing your LinkedIn profile. 
  • Research potential employers and job opportunities using CareerShift and other resources.
    Practice your interview skills with mock interviews or tools like Big Interview.
    Attend workshops, networking events, and career fairs to meet professionals and recruiters.

By using these resources and being proactive, you can set yourself up for success in your career.

Enhance your career development at USSU with access to services like CareerShift, advising, workshops, and career events. Prepare for your job search by identifying skills your degree fosters and conducting industry research. Explore career goals with assessment tools available in CareerShift.

  • Career Fairs Connect with employers recruiting for full-time positions and internships across various industries.
  • Career Workshops: Gain essential skills through sessions on resume, CV, and cover letter writing, interviewing strategies, job search techniques, and salary negotiation.
  • School-Specific Career Events: Reach out to your school-based career services office or academic department for tailored career events and networking opportunities.
  • Visit The USSU Graduate School: Supporting students from application to degree completion, the Graduate School enhances the academic experience, celebrates student achievements, and provides leadership for graduate education. They are part of the Office of the Provost and Academic Programs
Career Support for Ed.D.

The USSU Career Center supports Ed.D. and postdoctoral students in their professional development by providing resources, career exploration opportunities, and guidance at every stage of their program. A USSU doctoral degree equips students with expertise and transferable skills applicable across industries and career paths.

The Career Center offers professional development opportunities, career events to explore various industries, and networking opportunities with employers and alumni. Doctoral students can leverage CareerShift for job postings, career resources, and advising appointments to help build their skills and prepare for academic or industry job searches

Alumni Career Services

Whether you’re considering a career change, seeking new opportunities, or looking to expand your professional network, the United States Sports University is here to support your journey. The USSU Alumni Career Services platform offers valuable resources and guidance to help you navigate today’s competitive job market.

USSU alumni have access to a full range of career services designed to support their professional growth. Whether you’re exploring new career paths or refining your job search strategy, our career advising services provide tailored support to help you move forward with confidence.

We offer multiple career advising options to meet the needs of different job seekers. Building a strong network and conducting targeted research are key strategies for identifying opportunities that align with your skills and goals. Through CareerShift and other career resources, you can connect with professionals, explore industry trends, and discover job openings globally.

At USSU, we believe in the power of community and mentorship. Our alumni and university partners play a vital role in supporting current students and fellow graduates. By sharing your knowledge, providing guidance, and creating opportunities, you can help shape the future of the USSU professional network

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