"My adviser helped me identify a career that met my goals."

Gateway

Gateway is Lafayette’s four-year career development program, designed to give students career guidance throughout their time at Lafayette, beginning in their first semester.  Students meet and work with a Gateway counselor on an individual basis and, together discuss and develop a plan for major and career exploration through the four steps:  DISCOVER, EXPLORE, PREPARE, ACHIEVE.  As students learn more about themselves and their career interests through personally developed objectives developed with their Gateway counselor, they gain valuable experience and connections that will last a lifetime. 

Enrollment in Gateway means a commitment to self-discovery and to making optimal use of all career-related resources at Lafayette.  Wherever you are in thinking about your future, Gateway counselors, Lafayette faculty, and alumni are here to help. Gateway is a key part of the Lafayette Experience. It is just one of the many ways that the college helps you achieve your full academic, social, and personal potential.

Gateway Resources

Gateway Brochure Gateway Brochure

4-Year Parent Planning Guide

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PROGRAM BENEFITS

  • Individual appointments with your Gateway counselor to develop an individual career plan—one that encompasses your specific interests and goals. Your counselor’s guidance will complement what you discuss with your academic adviser.
  • The opportunity to apply for externships (two- to five-day shadowing experiences on the job with an alumnus during January interim session).
  • The opportunity to apply for alumni sponsored summer internships that relate to your field of interest.
  • Access to AlumNet, a network of alumni with whom you can talk about a field that interests you.
  • Assistance in developing well-written résumés and cover letters.
  • Interactive programs including workshops, alumni career panels, career fairs, and other career networking events.
  • Videotaped practice interviews to help you prepare for formal interviews.
  • Access to Job Vault (online job postings) and Job Alert—a service that notifies you via email of jobs and internships that match your specific interests.
  • On-campus interviews with a variety of employers for internships and full-time employment.
  • Preparation for the transition to life after Lafayette. 
  • The ability to clearly articulate your career goals to prospective employers and/or graduate or professional schools.

YOUR COMMITMENT

You will need to do the following to be part of the Gateway Program.

  • Begin to explore your career as a first-year student and continue to put forth consistent effort until you graduate.
  • Participate in two career-related activities each semester. (Appointments with your Gateway counselor, externships, workshops, and other Gateway programs count toward your Gateway credit).
  • Follow through with the personalized career plan you develop with your Gateway counselor. During meetings with your Gateway counselor, you will update and adjust your career plan and be guided in using the many materials and resources available to you through Career Services and throughout the college.

 



 

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