Backpack to Briefcase, an innovative annual job-search class for graduating seniors sponsored by Career Services in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, took place May 13 and 14. The two-part seminar, designed to provide students an intensive overview of job-search skills, offered a day of career success workshops and networking opportunities at Fox Labs on the N.C. State campus, as well as a second day’s field trip to the Environmental Protection Agency in RTP. Participants received lessons in interviewing skills, resumes and cover letter preparation, using contacts and other timely advice from corporate and business representatives, as well as personal experience testimonials from N.C. State alumni. Presentation topics ranged from “How Not to Get Weeded Out” to “Professional Branding and Improving Your Professional Image” to “Evaluating Job Offers.”

“During these challenging times, this is some good news on how we are reaching out to assist the Wolfpack family in need,” said Marcy Bullock, director of CALS Career Services, who noted that the Backpack to Briefcase program has been “recently showcased nationally to other career centers around the country.”

—Terri Leith