Career Services hosted its event Virtual Career Chat: Crafting Your Cover Letter on Oct. 1. This event allowed Utica College students to register on a website called Handshake where they will learn about writing cover letters. 

Handshake is the new website Career Services started using this year. It is similar to a social media site, but will only be used to connect with UC Career Services events and booking appointments with a career coach. Students have the option to make their professional profile on this new website with all of the interests, involvement and jobs they have had. 

Health and Wellness, Science and Undeclared Career Coach Victoria Pardee presented information during the event on Zoom for all students who attended. 

“We typically do these workshops in person, but we couldn’t due to COVID-19,” Pardee said. “These workshops will be held on Zoom this semester. We are really enjoying these because it allows us to offer the event in two different formats.” 

Career Services has given students a lot of options on Zoom; giving students the choice to join during the session or request a recorded video of the meeting to save for later.

During this virtual event, Pardee provided many details and concepts referring to what a cover letter should include. 

“A cover letter introduces you and your resume to an employer,” Pardee said. “We discussed how to create a cover letter that shows why you’re a great fit for the job.” 

For students who are interested in learning how to craft a cover letter or seeking a cover letter review, you can make an appointment with a career coach via Handshake (utica.joinhandshake.com). 

“We also have resources on our website, such as our Cover Letter Guide which provides a basic overview of what to include and some samples,” Pardee said. 

Career Services Administrative Assistant Jessica Skeldon said there is one thing students need to be aware of with cover letters. 

“One of the most important tips is not to use the same cover letter over and over again,” Skeldon said. “It is really essential to tailor it to the individual employer and position.” 

This is not the only Virtual Career Chat of the semester. Career Services has three of these remaining this semester such as Interviewing Skills, LinkedIn Basics and Job & Internship Search. Students will need to register for these events in advance on Handshake. 

“Handshake also has the ability for students to make appointments with their career coach,” Skeldon said. “They can also provide students as much help as possible not only with cover letters, but also career related things.”