KPU’s free online webinars support students with graduation-to-employment transition
The webinars aim to assist students with job search strategies, personal branding, and resume and cover letter writing
KPU will host two webinars on March 4 to help with post-graduation. (Vojtech Okenka/Pexels)
While graduation is an exciting achievement, the next steps — whether finding a job or pursuing further education — can be challenging.
To ease this transition, Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been hosting a series of free webinars on job search strategies, personal branding, and resume and cover letter writing.
In an email statement to The Runner, Alex Modares, work-integrated learning coordinator at KPU, wrote the webinars are designed to help students build the skills needed for career success.
“Graduation is a great milestone, and one of the main transitions in life,” Modares wrote. “This transitionary stage is the perfect time to build networking skills and focus on professional development.”
Job searching is not as simple as sending out applications and awaiting a response, he adds.
“These webinars provide step-by-step instructions so that our graduates can have a sense of direction.”
The webinars cover various topics designed to help students gain confidence during their job search. On Feb. 27, KPU hosted a “What Comes After Graduation” webinar to help students plan their next steps. On Feb. 28, the university ran a “Job Search” webinar to outline effective strategies for finding jobs.
On Tuesday, two webinars will be held. From noon to 1:00 pm, “Resume and Cover Letter: Putting your Professional Foot Forward” will provide tips on creating strong job applications, while “Personal Branding,” from 2:00 to 3:30 pm, will teach students how to stand out.
Modares wrote that many graduates struggle with the transition from school to work as they don’t know where to start from.
“Others struggle with finding their place in the labour market, while coping with rejection. Some even experience imposter syndrome — that nagging feeling of, ‘Am I even qualified for this?’” he wrote.
“There is also the challenge of adapting to a professional work environment, managing financial instability, and making big life decisions. It’s a lot to handle, which is why having support, resources and a solid game plan is so important.”
The webinars will dive into topics such as business culture, communication styles, and networking strategies for students who are unfamiliar with North American workplace standards.
“Learning these key differences during their academic journey helps not only international but also domestic students,” Modares wrote. “They encourage students to avoid common mistakes, and become more efficient and resilient — especially when coping with rejection. Moreover, it is a chance to ask questions and hear from experts.”
By the end of the sessions, students will know more about how to create effective cover letters and resumes that get noticed, develop job search strategies, prepare for interviews, and network with industry professionals, Modares wrote.
“Ultimately, we want to create a clear plan for what’s next — whether it’s work, further education, or exploring different career options.”
Whether or not you’re close to graduating, Modares wrote that if you start preparing now, it will be simpler to find a job that fits your skills, values, and career objectives in the future.
“Remember, your first job is just the beginning. Career growth is all about learning, adapting, and making choices that feel right for you.”
For more information on KPU’s career webinars and to register, visit www.kpu.ca/events.
