The Connections Program brings students into alumni workplaces to explore careers and broaden their perspective on what they can do with a liberal arts education. The program aims to connect students with St. Olaf’s vast network of alumni nationwide, specifically in metropolitan areas, giving them a firsthand look at how Oles are succeeding in all sorts of endeavors. Students have the opportunity to meet with alumni from specific interest areas.
application information
2017-18
New York
Fall Break 2017
Career Focus Areas: Finance, Journalism/Publishing, Fine Arts
twin cities
Fall Break 2017
Career Focus Areas: Law and Policy
Seattle-Portland
Interim Break 2018
Career Focus Areas: Technology, Social Services, Environment
Deadline: October 26, 2017
Boston
Spring Break 2018
Career Focus Areas: Music, Health Care/Medical Devices, Data Analytics
Deadline: December 6, 2017
2018-19
Chicago
Fall Break 2018
Career Focus Areas: Consulting, Marketing and Advertising, Social Services
San Francisco
Interim Break 2019
Career Focus Areas: Technology, Entrepreneurship, Innovation
Denver
Spring Break 2018
Career Focus Areas: Environment
Los Angeles
Interim Break 2019
Career Focus Areas: Film & Television
Washington, DC
Spring Break 2019
Career Focus Areas: Government and Public Policy, International Organizations, NGOs and Nonprofits, Think Tanks
Cost
Students contribute $275– $350 towards the program. Costs vary by city. Scholarships are available based on high financial need.
Application Information
Sophomore, juniors and seniors who are interested in exploring a specific career field aligned with a Connections trip and have a strong desire to network within a particular area are eligible to apply. To begin the application process for a Connections Program trip, students are required to attend a 20-minute information session with Kris Estenson (can be in groups of up to 5 students). Students can register for an information session with Kris through Handshake. During the appointment, students will receive more detailed information about the application process.
Preparing for Connections
- Communication fundamentals
- Writing professional emails
- Up and running with LinkedIn
- Building your professional network
Student Feedback
“This trip taught me so much more than I ever imagined. I made connections with people I can talk to about working in the New York City area. I also feel more comfortable about moving there knowing that I have a supportive network of people.”
“Not only did the program give me knowledge about career paths I was exploring, it also showed me new fields where my skills could be utilized.”
“I learned a lot about myself and met a group of current students who are interested in working in similar fields.”
“The trip was very motivational, inspirational, and reassuring.”