Lessons (So Far) From a Former Dean of Career Success Turned Industry Insider: A former dean now working with hiring organizations offers five lessons for how higher ed can work with industry and move the needle for students--especially low-income and first-generation students

In the article "Lessons (So Far) From a Former Dean of Career Success Turned Industry Insider," Niesha Ziehmke shares her experiences and offers five lessons for how higher education can collaborate with industry to benefit students, particularly those from low-income and first-generation backgrounds. Ziehmke emphasizes the importance of connecting students to large corporations in industries such as accounting, technology, finance, and professional services, where internships are paid and entry-level roles offer sustainable wages. The article also discusses the challenges and bright spots in career preparation within higher education, highlighting the need for more resources and required courses dedicated to career exploration and learning. The author suggests incorporating resume development into the curriculum to support low-income and first-generation students and emphasizes the significance of internships for career success. The article concludes by acknowledging the commitment to change from industry partners and the potential for positive impact in advancing access and equity in the local labor market. [Extracted from the article]