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Life After Graduation: What Every Graduate Needs to Know

Susan Conklin Portrait

College and career paths aren’t always straightforward, but good guidance makes all the difference. In this Q&A session, Professor Susan Conklin, a professor of management, organizational development, and cultural studies, offers guidance on life after graduation.

From managing career choices to dealing with burnout and imposter syndrome, Professor Conklin offers thoughtful, practical advice drawn from years of experience in and beyond the classroom.

How can I leverage my new degree to change careers or move up?  

    First, recognize and acknowledge the valuable skills that you’ve accumulated getting to this point. Focus on the combination of your work experience and new credentials. Create a tailored résumé highlighting transferable skills, accomplishments, and how your education adds value. Consider your technical skills as well as your durable, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Network and use platforms like LinkedIn to tell your story – why you pursued your degree and what your goals are.

    What are some strategies for staying motivated and productive after graduation, especially when the next steps aren’t clear?

    Big life changes can leave us feeling unbalanced or disoriented. Keep your ultimate goals in mind. Set small milestones each day to consistently keep yourself moving forward. Completing your degree took motivation, courage, and hard work, so you know you can do it. Use those same skills to create momentum and remember to celebrate wins along the way!

    How can I continue to learn and grow after graduation, even if I don’t go to grad school?

    Many students are life-long learners and continue their education simply because they love to learn. Grad school is one option, but there are many other opportunities to continue to learn and grow. Microcredentials and certificate programs are great options to continue your development; they focus on specific skills that earn credentials and are often stackable, serving as an intermediate path to a degree. You can choose options based on personal or professional interests, and they take less time to complete than a degree program. Employers are increasingly seeing value in these types of credentials.

    How do I deal with imposter syndrome?

    We are often our own worst critics. Acknowledge your achievements and what you’ve already accomplished. Balancing school, work, family and community obligations is no small feat. Seek out support from peers, mentors, support groups, professional organizations, or formal mentorship programs to remind yourself you’re not alone. Ask for feedback from trusted individuals to see yourself more objectively and be open to constructive criticism – see it as a gift and an opportunity to improve and grow.

    What should I focus on in my first year after graduation to set myself up for long-term career success?

    Focus on setting goals and identifying the small steps you need to take to create the life you’ve imagined. Establish new productive habits that you may not have had time for as a student. Stay open and take advantage of opportunities, even unexpected ones, that may lead you in a new direction. Keep the momentum going!  

    Is it okay not to know exactly what you want to do after graduation?

    Certainly! Many of us have taken the proverbial “long and winding road” to find our true calling or our ultimate career. You can learn and take something of value from every experience you have (good and bad). Learn all you can from those experiences and let them guide you to the next step on your path forward.

    How important is networking after college?

    Building and maintaining relationships is important, both personally and professionally. You likely spent extensive time and built friendships with some of your classmates, and you’ve shared many of the same challenges and experiences. Take opportunities to stay connected with the friends (and even faculty) you’ve met during your academic experience. You may serve as a resource and provide opportunities for each other, and you may ultimately become colleagues and coworkers.

    What’s one piece of advice you wish every student could take with them after graduating?

    Student life can be complex. Many of you are non-traditional students who returned to the classroom while raising children, working full-time jobs, caring for aging parents, or navigating chapters of life that others never see. You have already demonstrated more resilience and self-discipline than many give you credit for. That’s not just impressive, it’s transformational.

    Trust that the same strength that brought you through college will serve you in everything you do next. Whether you’re stepping into a new career, seeking a promotion, launching a business, or simply embracing the satisfaction of having finished what you started, know that your capacity to learn, adapt, and grow is now a permanent part of you. The world may not always recognize the invisible mountains you’ve climbed, but don’t let that make you small; let it make you fierce. Let it remind you that you can always begin again, even when the path looks uncertain.

    Congratulations on your accomplishments. You didn’t just earn a degree; you redefined what it means to show up for your future. Best wishes for your continued success!

    Crafting a Purposeful Life: One Veteran’s Path Through Service, Art, and Leadership

    a male student in graduation regalia

    As the College of Professional Studies student marshal, Robert Salvato embodies the spirit of dedication and leadership. A veteran, artist, and leader, Salvato’s path has been anything but ordinary. Yet throughout his diverse journey, Salvato has remained grounded in two constants: a deep passion for meaningful work and a commitment to purpose-driven living.

    In this Q&A, Salvato reflects on the experiences that have shaped him, the values that connect each chapter of his life, and how earning a B.P.S. in project management is guiding his next steps.

    Your journey has been incredibly diverse, from military service to interactive sculpting, farming, museum management, and now project management. What has been the common thread tying all these experiences together?

    The common threads have been twofold.  First, following what I love to do and what inspires me.  My love for service and adventure led me to join the Navy, and my passion for creativity and expression led me to the museum and then to creating my own artwork.

    Wood carved and bound. Art by Robert Salvato
    Wood carved and bound. Art by Robert Salvato
    Wood carved and bound. Art by Robert Salvato.

    Second was dedicating myself to connecting with a place and allowing things to unfold.  When my wife and I purchased an abandoned farm with a dilapidated old farmhouse twenty-plus years ago, I determined that I would interact with the resources on the property and let them and my imagination guide me.  The native trees contained tonal qualities on par with exotic imported woods, perfect for musical instrument making. Some trees are considered “invasive” but are rot-resistant and sinuously curvy, naturally sculptural and inviting. The soil had failed the previous generations because it wasn’t receptive to conventional farming techniques, but it became abundant and fertile with a patient and organic approach.

    What drives your dedication to academic excellence, and how has your life journey, service in the U.S. Navy and your time at Syracuse University shaped you as a leader?

    Robert Salvato reads the biography of a WW2 U.S. soldier. The event was in honor of the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Florence and held at the Florence American Cemetery.
    Robert Salvato and his classmates during the study abroad program in Italy.

    In the Navy, I learned the importance of attention to detail and how rewarding it is to give all of yourself and your very best to a mission. I try to apply those concepts to all of my endeavors. Academic excellence comes from following directions, organizing an approach, and giving the best effort possible.

    My time in the U.S. Navy exposed me to many leadership styles, which shaped me as a leader. I observed others in leadership roles, assessed their effectiveness, and eventually tried out my own. My diverse background allows me to connect with people from many different walks of life, and empathy guides my leadership decisions. My time at Syracuse has shaped my leadership style through the level of professionalism I have experienced in my classmates and instructors.  I learned how to define the different leadership styles and be intentional in deciding how to lead. The classes in Coaching for Leaders introduced me to new methodologies and resources that I can reference in the future. The study abroad in Florence put me in a unique situation as a “non-traditional” student. Being substantially older than my classmates, I felt obligated to set an example and offer leadership to the other students where appropriate.

    As someone who has successfully balanced entrepreneurship, education, and service, what advice would you give to students who are looking to carve out their own unique career paths?

    The advice I would offer students who are looking to carve out their own unique career paths is to:

    Trust in yourself to do great things.  You are capable of much more than you give yourself credit for. Allow yourself to succeed.

    Create an environment that allows you to block out negativity and take risks (minimize debt, control your social media, surround yourself with positive colleagues or partners).

    Volunteer! It’s a great way to engage with people and organizations that inspire you.

    Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your vision.

    Utilize the power of networking outside your normal circle; everyone has an interesting story, something to teach, and something in common. This has led me to many synergistic opportunities.

    Looking ahead, how do you see your skills in project management, leadership, and creativity shaping your future? Are there any exciting projects or goals on the horizon?

    I always have several projects in process and on the horizon.

    I was recently accepted into Syracuse’s Instructional Design, Development, and Evaluation graduate program. I hope to gain the tools that will allow me to utilize my unique talents to create inspiring and engaging content that supports diverse learners and drives meaningful change in educational settings. 

    Looking ahead, I see my project management skills helping me to plan, organize, and execute complex initiatives effectively, while my leadership abilities will enable me to engage teams with empathy and vision. My creativity will continue to be a driving force in developing innovative learning experiences. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work on immersive learning technologies and cross-cultural design projects that make education more accessible and impactful. Teaching in higher education has also been a latent goal.

    2025 Alpha Sigma Lambda Inductees Recognized by College of Professional Studies

    Dean Michael Frasciello with College of Professional Studies students at the 2025 Alpha Sigma Lambda reception.

    Alpha Sigma Lambda is the nation’s largest and oldest chapter-based honor society for non-traditional students. The Society was founded in 1945-46 and today has more than 300 institutional chapters. The Syracuse University chapter is the Beta Delta Chapter and was established in 1977.

    Alpha Sigma Lambda’s aim is to recognize the special achievements of adults who accomplish academic excellence while facing competing interests of home and work. Alpha Sigma Lambda is dedicated to the advancement of scholarship and recognizes high scholastic achievement in an adult student’s career. By so doing, this Society encourages many students to continue toward and to earn associate and bachelor’s degrees.

    To be considered for membership a candidate must be matriculated and have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours and represent the top twenty percent of the class, with a minimum grade point index of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.

    On April 24, the College of Professional Studies recognized the following students at the 2025 Alpha Sigma Lambda reception:

    David Dresselhaus

    Elijah Benjamin

    Christie Chafee

    Jonathan Schulz

    Zachary Carrington

    Markeeta McBurrows

    Candace Stell

    Edward Brisson

    Joel Herrera

    Jacob Stutsman

    Mason Turman

    Kristopher Plantz

    Samantha Tober

    Laura Mack

    Why Experiential Learning Matters: An Alum’s Perspective

    When Rutika Gangurde G’24 joined Syracuse University’s iConsult Collaborative, she had no idea the experience would be a turning point in her academic and professional life. Now a program manager at Micron Technology, the engineering management graduate credits the hands-on, community-driven projects at iConsult for sharpening her skills and helping her stand out. The program, which was recently recognized by UNESCO as a global model for “community-based learning in higher education,” gave Gangurde more than just experience; it gave her direction.

    What types of experiential learning opportunities have you participated in?

      I’ve been fortunate to participate in a variety of hands-on experiences, from coursework company experiences to data analytics projects. My time with iConsult, however, has been especially meaningful, as it allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world challenges and work alongside some incredible people.

      How did your hands-on experiences with iConsult enhance your academic learning and help you apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings?

      Working with iConsult helped me connect the dots between theory and practice. While my coursework provided a strong foundation, the opportunity to implement project management techniques and process improvement strategies in real client projects was invaluable. It helped me truly understand the importance of applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting.

      What skills did you develop or improve through your time at iConsult that made you more marketable to employers?

      Working at iConsult helped me refine several skills, particularly in project management, leadership, and technical areas. I strengthened my communication skills through regular client interactions, learning to present ideas clearly and manage client expectations.

      How did you network or build relationships with professionals during experiential learning, and how did that contribute to your job search after graduation?

      I’ve had the chance to meet and learn from so many great professionals, especially Dr. Arthur Thomas at iConsult. By collaborating on projects and attending meetings, I was able to connect with people who really opened my eyes to different career paths and industry insights. These relationships have been helpful, not just in gaining new perspectives, but also in my job search in career fairs and online after graduation.

      In what ways did experiential learning help you build your resume or portfolio?

      The hands-on experiences I gained through projects with iConsult at Albany Health Management, Phairify, Nine Ai, Diabetech and ICM Controls significantly enhanced my resume. I was able to showcase a diverse range of technical and leadership skills, including project management, process optimization, and semiconductor knowledge. My previous experience at Accenture Solutions Pvt. Ltd. further strengthened my portfolio, giving me a well-rounded set of experiences that highlight my ability to handle complex projects and deliver results. These relationships have been helpful, not just in gaining new perspectives, but also in my job search in career fairs and online after graduation.

      How did experiential learning help you identify the types of roles or industries that were the best fit for your skills and career aspirations?

      Project management is such a diverse field that allows you to apply your knowledge across various industries like healthcare, semiconductor, finance, and more. Through my experiences, I saw firsthand how adaptable project management skills are. Whether optimizing processes in healthcare or managing technical projects in the semiconductor industry, the right skill set allows you to bring value to any sector. This diversity has helped me identify my career aspirations and reinforced the importance of combining work experience and academic learning to be successful across multiple industries.

      How have your experiences in internships, volunteer work, or other hands-on opportunities helped you build the confidence and mindset needed for transitioning into post-graduate life?

      Throughout my career journey, I often struggled with the idea that having a diverse skill set and range of experiences might prevent me from applying for a specific field or industry when looking for a job. I thought that being spread across various areas would make it harder to focus on one path. However, after a meeting with Dr. Thomas, he helped me realize that the diversity in my experiences is what makes me unique. His words, “The diversity in your resume is what makes you you,” were a turning point. hat insight boosted my confidence and shifted my mindset. I now see that my varied experiences are strengths that make me adaptable and well-equipped to thrive in different roles and industries.

      How are you planning to apply the skills and experiences you’ve gained during your studies to your next steps, whether in further education, your career, or personal growth?

      My time at iConsult played a crucial role in shaping my management skills and bridging the gap between my technical experience and management responsibilities. It helped me transition from being hands-on with technology to taking on a more strategic, leadership-focused role. The experiences and skills I gained at iConsult not only boosted my confidence but also helped me secure interviews with top companies. One of those interviews led to an opportunity at Micron Technology, where I am now working as a program manager. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities iConsult provided, as it laid the foundation for my growth and helped me take the next step in my career.

      Is there anything else you would like to add?

      It’s been quite a journey! From Accenture and iConsult to learning how to balance technical and management tasks, I’ve realized that success doesn’t require perfection. Sometimes, it’s about having the right mindset and the guidance of a good mentor. I’m grateful for the people who’ve supported me, and I’m excited to keep growing by taking chances and learning from missteps.

      To learn more about iConsult and experiential learning, visit iConsult’s webpage.

      10 Powerful Reasons to Earn a Project Management Certificate

      Pursuing further education is a personal and professional decision, and for those already navigating a career, finding the right path can be both exciting and challenging. The College of Professional Studies’ online certificate of advanced studies (C.A.S.) in project management offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace, gain valuable skills from anywhere, and enhance your career prospects without disrupting your current lifestyle.

      For Ashley Barletta, the decision to pursue a Project Management (C.A.S.) was driven by a desire to build on existing knowledge and skillsets while maintaining flexibility in her busy life. In this Q&A, we dive into the experience of earning a Project Management C.A.S., exploring the inspiration behind choosing a certificate over a degree, the skills gained, and how the program has impacted both Barletta’s career confidence and leadership abilities.

      The workload and intensity of this program are in line with my expectations for a graduate program. Asynchronous work along with virtually meeting once a week is the perfect mix of collaborative and individualized learning that fits within my current work schedule and personal life. The course load and expectations are very similar to other online courses I have taken.

      Getting a sense of the broad project management process has been the most valuable aspect of this program so far. There are so many intricacies associated with project management that don’t get covered in traditional job setting, so these courses are helping provide the foundation of what it truly means to manage a project.

      Project management comes in many forms and the skills learned in this program have so many implications in my everyday work. I find myself being more mindful of the project planning process, assessing aspects like scope, key stakeholders and communications plans, which are integral parts of keeping a project running smoothly and on course.

      Although I haven’t personally explored new software yet, I am learning about new templates and procedures to utilize when managing projects that I’ve never encountered before. Work breakdown structure? No problem. This skill is extremely helpful when outlining project activities and critical pathways that I can leverage in future projects.

      I feel that this certificate has enhanced my leadership skills and confidence in the workplace. I feel more prepared to step up and take the lead on new or existing initiatives based on the learnings and knowledge gained from these courses. Learning about the fundamental principles of project management have shown me how crucial critical steps like planning, communicating and time management are to the success of a project.

      The most challenging aspect of this certificate was the learning curve related to new terminology and processes associated with project management. There are many processes that we might utilize when handling a project, but there are so many steps to take and reasons for why something needs to be done within the project management landscape. It has been so interesting to discuss topics like risk assessment, the project lifecycle, stakeholder management and different project management approaches – most of which I had never studied before.

      This program is so flexible! It fits into my lifestyle, both professionally and personally due to its modular and asynchronous nature. Working on projects and homework throughout the week, paired with a weekly virtual session with classmates and our professor, is a great way to learn and engage even with a busy life. I truly enjoy the flexible nature of the program and appreciate that it accommodates working professionals who want to continue or broaden their education in a new field.

      I believe that this certificate will benefit me in many ways. Not only am I gaining skills that can be applied to any job or field, but I feel more marketable and well-rounded. Adding this certificate to my resume with be a great talking point when it comes to networking, elevating work in my current role or even new career opportunities down the road.

      I would absolutely recommend this certificate—there are truly no drawbacks to this 5-course program. Through these compact yet jam-packed courses, you are able to learn so much in a short amount of time. The benefits of learning project management skills will undoubtedly make me a better worker, planner, and leader.

      Ready to advance your career? Our project management degrees, certificates, and minors equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to lead successful projects. Whether you’re aiming for leadership or enhancing your expertise, our programs prepare you to drive innovation, solve complex challenges, and lead teams to success. Learn more today!

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