Contact: Dr. Donna M. Simon (304) 766-3363 dsimon@wvstateu.edu

INSTITUTE, W.Va. — West Virginia State University (WVSU) students and members of the public will receive practical advice on jump starting their professional lives at the College of Arts and Humanities Career Convocation on Thursday, Feb. 21.
Called “Pathways Ahead,” the Convocation will begin at 12:30 p.m. in the Wilson University Union and feature two concurrent sessions open to all WVSU students, alumni and members of the public.
One session, “Getting LinkedIn to Social Media: Job Search Strategies and Social Media,” will focus on teaching attendees how to use social media to make new contacts and to find a job.
Topics will include developing a personal brand, managing an online reputation and building a professional network. This session will be led by Rob Russo, a communications specialist at WVSU.
The second concurrent session will explore factors to consider when deciding whether to attend graduate or professional school.
Called “GPS: Graduate of Professional School and You,” topics covered in this session will include preparation for graduate school while still an undergraduate, the selection of school and type of program, the criteria for quality online degree programs, financing options and the admissions process.
This concurrent session will feature a panel discussion moderated by Sherri Shafer, assistant professor and chairman of the department of communications. Panelists will include: Dr. Anne McConnell, assistant professor of English; Dr. Kent Shaw, assistant professor of English; and Josh Martin, an instructor of art.
The Convocation will conclude at 1:20 p.m.
Those interested in attending are encouraged to register for the Convocation by Feb. 19. Registration forms are available through department chairs in the College of Arts and Humanities at (304) 766-4113 or through the Office of Career Services and Co-operative Education at (304) 766-3250. Attendees may also register by sending an e-mail directly to .
For more information, contact Career Services and Co-operative Education at (304) 766-3250.