East Michigan News

A remarkable 94.9% of recent Central Michigan University (CMU) graduates are employed, continuing their education, or participating in military or other service, according to the newly calculated Career Outcomes Rate. This high rate reflects the employment success of undergraduate CMU students who graduated between August 2022 and June 2023.

“Students choose to join us at CMU because of our focus on their future success,” CMU President Bob Davies said. “Now we have even more proof that CMU is delivering the hands-on education and experiences that result in successful careers and inspire leaders for the real world.”

CMU Innovation and Online Executive Director of Business and Community Outreach, Rob VanDorin, noted increased student engagement in initiatives offered by CMU’s Career Development Center as a contributing factor to the rise in successful employment outcomes.

“The Employer Partnership Program connects potential employers to CMU students, often leading to post-graduation career opportunities. The program experienced an 11% increase in employer participation in the last year,” VanDorin said.

The center's efforts include individual sessions on career counseling, first impressions, and peer advising. Over 4,000 students scheduled appointments last year to prepare for their job search.

CMU Associate Director of Career Development Erica O’Toole emphasized ongoing efforts to prepare students professionally.

“We offer support at the individual level by helping students develop professionally and give them the skills necessary to be successful after graduation,” she said. “This year our goal is to once again increase appointment numbers in our office.”

The university’s strategic plan for 2023-2028 emphasizes preparing students through hands-on experiences across all academic colleges. Veronica Barone, chair of the Department of Physics, highlighted personalized attention and early involvement in research projects as key elements.

“We are known for providing personalized attention to students, engaging them in externally funded research projects as early as their sophomore year under faculty guidance,” she said.

In the College of Health Professions' Speech-Language Pathology program, Summer Specialty Clinics provide practical experience working with children with communication disorders. Student Erica Barta found this experience crucial for her career readiness.

“It is such a valuable experience that has equipped me with clinical skills and insights needed for a brighter future,” Barta said.

Alumnus Jordan Storey credited CMU faculty with guiding him toward a career as a transportation planner for the State of Michigan after exploring multiple majors during his studies.

“By investing in the personal and professional growth of their students, CMU ensures that they leave with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the workforce,” Storey said.

Stan Shingles, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs, pointed out that involvement in student organizations also plays a significant role in skill development aligned with National Association of Colleges and Employers Career Readiness Competencies.

Heidi Garay ('24), who served as president of Women’s Rugby Club during her time at CMU, shared how leadership roles prepared her for her current position as an Associate Account Manager at Lockton Companies.

“When it came time to look for full-time roles...employers could see they weren’t just interviewing another desperate college kid but a confident employee ready to put in work wherever needed,” Garay said.

President Bob Davies stated that CMU's mission focuses on student success. The latest Career Outcomes Rate supports this mission by showing progress toward raising successful career outcomes further.

The new rate marks an improvement over prior results from First Destination Surveys conducted within six months post-graduation. The updated calculation includes data from sources like LinkedIn and National Student Clearinghouse.

VanDorin oversaw this transition process aimed at enhancing accuracy comparable with other Michigan universities' metrics.

“We can now be even more confident in employment data...it appears CMU is outperforming most peer institutions," VanDorin concluded.