Learn how to search smarter - not just for jobs, but for the companies and industries that align with your goals. Discover how to find hidden opportunities and make your job search more intentional. In this episode, hosts Rebecca Harrington and Jordan Rembrecht flip the traditional job search strategy on its head. Instead of hunting for job titles, they explore how researching companies and industries can unlock hidden opportunities, help you build meaningful connections, and lead to mo...

Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward or transactional. In this episode of Career Podcast, host Marisela Morales explores a new way to think about networking: as building community, trust, and support systems that can open doors to real opportunities. We also talk with College of DuPage student Juan Hernandez, who shares his personal experiences attending conferences and joining clubs, how his understanding of networking has evolved, and the positive outcomes he’s seen so far. Listeners wil...

In this episode, host Pierre Michiels interview features Christine Kickels, Reference Librarian at College of DuPage, who shares insights on how students can use the library to explore careers, research companies, and access hidden resources. Before exploring how libraries can be powerful tools in the job search, the episode begins with a conversation between Pierre and guests from Lime Connect. Yardena Gerwin and Alissa Brower discuss Lime Connect, a valuable resource for job seekers with di...

In this episode, host Pierre Michiels talks with Julio Rodriguez, Deputy Director of the Illinois Office of Employment and Training, about the future of work and workforce development in Illinois. Julio shares insights on emerging industries like advanced manufacturing and quantum technology, the rise of skills-based hiring, and the importance of apprenticeships and flexible career pathways. He highlights how Illinois is using data, technology, and partnerships to prepare workers for evolving...

In this episode of The Career Ready Podcast, hosts Rebecca Harrington and Jordan Ruprecht welcome Dr. Mary Gatta, Director of Research and Public Policy at the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Dr. Gatta shares insights from NACE’s latest research, including: The 8 Career Readiness Competencies and why they serve as “career currency” for graduates.Which competencies employers value most—and where new grads often fall short.How skills-based hiring is changing the way emplo...

Thinking about a creative career? In this episode, Rebecca interviews Professor Daniel Millhouse, who shares what it’s really like to work in theater and how studying the arts can prepare you for any career path. From public speaking and teamwork to problem-solving under pressure, theater helps students build skills that employers love. Whether you want to be on stage or just think creatively in your future job, this episode will inspire you to see theater in a whole new way. Please visit our...

In today’s episode Marisela interviews David Ellis, Professor in the Welding Technology Program at College of DuPage. They discuss career possibilities within Welding along with skills needed to succeed in the profession. Tips to get started are also shared in addition to what the program has to offer its students at College of DuPage. Please visit our website Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcare...

Think speech class is just about public speaking? Think again. In this episode, Pierre Michaels sits down with Cassandra Wingert, Assistant Professor of Speech Communication at College of DuPage, to explore how communication skills shape career success in every field—from healthcare to business to law. Cassandra shares how speech courses build confidence, foster leadership, and prepare students for real-world challenges through hands-on experiences like mock interviews and persuasive presenta...

In today’s episode Michelle interviews Stephanie McLemore, Assistant Professor in the Cosmetology Program at College of DuPage, to explore the dynamic world of cosmetology. Stephanie shares the wide range of career opportunities available in the field, the essential skills needed to thrive, and how students can get started. Learn about the hands-on training, industry insights, and supportive community offered through the College of DuPage’s Cosmetology Program. Whether you're curious about th...

What can you do with a political science degree? More than you think. In this episode, Rebecca interviews Professor Maureen Heffren-Ponicki to explore the many ways students can turn their passion for politics, justice, and community into meaningful careers. From public service to grassroots organizing, policy research to civic education, Professor Heffren-Ponicki shares real-world insights, personal stories, and empowering advice for students ready to make a difference. Whether you're dreami...

In today’s episode, Marisela interviews Holly Gaydurgis, ASL Interpreter Assistant Professor at College of DuPage. Together, they discuss the two main career paths in ASL interpreting—educational and freelance—highlighting the skills developed in the program, such as ASL and English proficiency, ethical decision-making, and cultural mediation. She emphasizes the importance of immersion in the deaf community, learning from deaf influencers, and gaining hands-on experience through practicum and...

In this kickoff episode of our summer series, host Michelle Malik sits down with Jordan Rembrandt, the newest Career Specialist at College of DuPage and newest host of The Career Ready Podcast. Jordan shares her career journey—from volunteering in high school and switching majors in college to working in HR and eventually joining Career Services. Hear how mentorship, internships, and involvement in programs like Best Buddies and the COACH program helped shape her path. Jordan also offers advi...

Stepping into your first job interview can feel overwhelming—but what if you had a personal coach available 24/7? In this episode, we explore how college students and recent grads can use AI tools to prepare smarter, faster, and with more confidence. Learn how to generate common questions, build STAR stories, polish your delivery, and tailor your responses to specific job descriptions—all with the help of AI. Also learn about the importance of clear communication to get ahead at the workplace...

In this episode of the Career Podcast, hosts Pierre Michaels and Rebecca Harrington dive into the essentials of career readiness. Pierre interviews Samuel Wilson, a College of DuPage graduate and tax consultant at Deloitte. Samuel shares his inspiring journey from high school electives to landing his dream job. The conversation includes the importance of networking, internships, and leveraging AI tools for resume building. Samuel's insights on transitioning from college to the workforce and f...

In this episode of The Career Ready Podcast, we explore two crucial aspects of career success, teamwork and the resume. Mari provides tips and insight to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance your job search, specifically in crafting effective resumes. Before learning about resume AI tools, Pierre discussed the importance of teamwork and accountability in the workplace, drawing insights from the research of the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Learn how to n...

On this episode of The Career Ready Podcast, Pierre interviews Jim Fuller, General Manager of the student newspaper at College of DuPage. The conversations explore the significant technological disruptions that have reshaped the journalism industry, and how those lessons can prepare us for the AI-driven future. We'll discuss the transition from print to digital, the impact of emerging technologies like AI, and the essential skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. Learn how t...

Ever wonder how to research careers using AI? In this episode, Michelle talks about ChatGPT and how to use it to start the process of exploring careers. The importance of using AI ethically is discussed and sample questions to ask ChatGPT are provided. Additionally, Michelle mentions career exploration websites to assist in career research. Rebecca starts the episode by providing information on the NACE Competency of Technology. Topic #1 (Competency): The National Association of C...

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back—it’s a powerful way to gain valuable skills, build your network, and boost your career prospects. In this episode, Rebecca interviews Joan DiPiero, Community Engagement Coordinator, and we explore how college students can leverage volunteer experiences to stand out in job applications, make meaningful connections, and discover new career opportunities. Michelle starts the episode by sharing how to use LinkedIn to search for volunteer opportunities.&nb...

In today’s episode, we will begin our series on using AI for the job search process, and the possible consequences of using AI improperly. In addition, we will be answering a listener question regarding how to prepare yourself for a virtual interview. Michelle discusses how job seekers can prepare themselves for virtual interviews. Mari discusses how AI is becoming an essential tool in the job search process, with job seekers using it for tasks like resume enhancement, interview ...

In today’s episode, Michelle interviews Nicole Magats, Talent Acquisition Partner at TransChicago and Director of Marketing & Social Media at HRA of Greater Oak Brook, about current job trends. Nicole talks about changes in hiring and the job market this Spring, the impact of AI, why employers may ghost applicants, as well as how to stand out during the job search process. Mari starts the episode by answering a listener question about if a degree is needed to be successful. Topic #1...