Pathway Program

The Career Readiness Pathway Program is a key initiative within Franklin University Switzerland’s Strategic Plan, designed to support students in preparing for meaningful and successful careers. This one-year program offers students the chance to explore their career interests, assess and develop their skills, identify personal and professional goals, engage in a mentoring relationship, and complete a practical experience relevant to their ambitions.

Structured as a series of flexible modules, the program helps students build essential competencies through hands-on learning, reflection, and mentorship. Each module is carefully designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of career readiness, no matter a student’s major or year of study.

Launched as a pilot for the 2024–2025 academic year, the program provides a valuable framework for students to begin planning and reflecting on their professional development journey.

Discover

Students attend an Introductory Workshop to learn about identifying personal and professional skills and competencies. Students develop an Individual Development Plan (IDP).

Identify / Learn / Train

Students take a self-assessment to identify their strengths and areas for growth. Professional-interests talk will be conducted to help students know more about their field from a professional standpoint and career-building workshops will be offered to help students develop skills and competencies sought by employers. Students will then complete an activity of their choice to apply the new skills learned.

Be Mentored

Each student will be paired with an alum mentor who will provide guidance, support, and industry insights. Regular meetings and check-ins with mentors will help students navigate their career paths and build professional networks.

Practical Experience

Students will gain real-world experience through various opportunities such as internships, Life-Long Learning Scholarship (LLLS), Residential Assistantship (RAs) positions, volunteering and leadership positions, and shadowing professionals in their field of interest over an extended period of time. These practical experiences are designed to enhance students' understanding of workplace dynamics and professional expectations.

*Please note that the Pathway Program does not provide the practical experience; students are responsible for finding the practical experience of their choice and have it count for completion towards the Pathway Program. The Career Readiness team remains available to guide students as they explore and apply to various opportunities.

By participating in the Pathway program, students will gain various benefits, including:

• Self-awareness: Identify and articulate their existing skills and interests
• Skill Development: Gain valuable new skills and competencies that are crucial for career success
• Networking Opportunities: Build meaningful connections with alumni and experienced professionals
• Real-World Experience: Apply classroom knowledge in practical settings to gain firsthand experience
• Empowerment: Increase their confidence as Bachelor degree candidates exploring career opportunities

The Career Readiness Pathway Program is an excellent opportunity for students to prepare for their future careers. We encourage all students to take part in this pilot program and embark on a journey of professional growth and development.

For more information, please contact a member of the Career Readiness Team.

Deborah Knaust - Focus Area: oversight of Career Readiness
Dean of Student Life and Engagement
Phone: +41 91 986 53 29
Email: dknaust@fus.edu

Justine Salam - Focus Area: Outreach and Relationships
Assistant Director of Admissions & Career Readiness Lead
Phone: +41 91 986 36 11 
Email: jsalam@fus.edu

Ebonie Rayford - Focus Area: Direct Services
Assistant Dean of Student Life and Director of Career Services
Phone: +41 91 985 22 79
Email: erayford@fus.edu