Career Trek Program
By : Kristin Stephens , M . S ., CCSP Assistant Director , Experiential Learning Center for Career and Leadership Development
The Career Trek program exemplifies ODU ’ s commitment to high-impact practices and experiential learning , which play a vital role in student success .
This fall , the Center for Career and Leadership Development ' s Career Trek program has taken undergraduate and graduate students onsite to some of the area ' s top employers : Dollar Tree , Smithfield Foods , Merrick & Co ., and Jefferson Lab . Each trek offered students the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and explore a diverse range of career pathways including information technology , fashion merchandising , business management , marketing , supply chain management , human resources , engineering , and advanced scientific research . Through immersive facility tours , hands-on activities , roundtables , and insightful panel discussions , students gained a practical understanding of their fields of study and witnessed firsthand the skills and expertise valued by today ' s employers .
By bridging classroom knowledge with real-world experiences , Career Treks empower students to envision their future careers , build professional networks , and develop the skills necessary to transition confidently into the workforce . We are grateful to our industry partners for their continued support in making these experiences possible and for helping our students become well-prepared , career-ready leaders .
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