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Career development program helps students find their path

Students explore post-graduate options at clinic
August 5, 2018

A former professor wants to help local students find fulfilling careers.

“I felt the need to make a difference, so I started Higher Ed Assist,” said Thomas Maguire, former business professor at Gwynedd Mercy University.

Through Higher Ed Assist, Maguire launched a new career development program, Find My Path. The program brings students and professionals together in an onsite clinic, typically at a local school or youth organization. Maguire works with school officials to select representatives from different career fields who present the ups and downs of their professions to students.

“It’s not a career fair,” Maguire said. “It’s a professional development exploratory and a real eye-opener for what kids may want to do.”

Clinics are targeted to students in grades 8 through 12, and for adults considering a career change or seeking employment. Participants also receive a workbook they can use to explore career or educational options.

“It helps open their eyes to all possibilities,” he said. “College may not be the best option for everyone; some students may prefer the trades or the military.”

Through his partnerships, Maguire is able to draw from over 200 different career professionals to present. He works with local businesses as sponsors and workshop presenters.

“We can tailor the workshops to meet the school’s needs,” he said. “For instance, we could make it industry-specific and have a trades day, or all medical professions.”

Contact Maguire at 856-701-1692 or higheredassist.com.

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