Learning from Professionals

Learning from Professionals

Engaging with Professionals

• Professionals help us understand what careers are really like
• Asking good questions helps you learn more than just job titles
• The way you engage depends on the access you have

Different Ways to Engage With Professionals

• One-on-one conversations (in person, phone, or video call)
• Guest speakers in class
• Watching career videos or interviews
• Career panels (multiple professionals sharing)

• Job shadowing experiences
• Career fairs or industry events

• Podcasts featuring professionals
• Virtual career tours or company websites

Why Engagment Type Matters

• Each type gives you different opportunities to learn
• Some allow you to ask questions directly
• Others require you to listen and capture information
• Being prepared helps you get the most out of any experience

Small Group/Guest Speaker

One on One Interaction

• You can ask personalized questions
• You control the conversation
• You can follow up and ask deeper questions

Tips:

• Prepare 3–5 key questions
• Listen carefully and take notes
• Respect their time

• Many students are asking questions
• You may not get to ask everything

Tips:

• Choose questions that are most important to you
• Avoid repeating questions others may ask
• Take notes on what others ask

Podcast and Recorded Interviews

• You cannot ask questions directly
• You must listen for key information

Tips: Write down:

• What they do
• How they got there
• Advice they give
• Pause and rewind if needed
• Write down questions you still have

Ask Great Questions

• Ask open-ended questions (not yes/no)
• Focus on:
• Their journey
• Skills needed
• Challenges
• Advice

Explore the Career Question Bank Worksheet and prioritize your questions for your next professional engagment using the Interview Questions and Notes worksheet.