Take the Lead
Begin preparing for your career with other Hokies through a leadership focused program. Participants will network with leaders, employers, and alumni while developing career resources. This opportunity is ideal for students who already have established career goals or those still figuring out their professional goals. Through short sessions that introduce leaders, employers, and alumni, you will learn about different industries, job titles, and various ways to navigate the path to your career.
Have questions? Email liberalarts@vt.edu.
Upcoming Events
AI in the Workplace: Employer Panel
Tuesday, October 13 // 5:00-6:00 pm // Zoom
Artificial intelligence is changing how organizations work—and what employers are looking for in new hires. Hear directly from employers about how AI is being used in the workplace, how it is shaping jobs and career paths, and what skills students need to succeed in an AI-influenced workforce. Panelists will share perspectives on the opportunities and challenges of AI, expectations for responsible and effective use, and how students can demonstrate their ability to work alongside emerging technologies. Whether you're preparing for an internship, job search, or your future career, this conversation will help you better understand what AI means for the workplace you’re about to enter.
Skills Lab: Professionalism
Monday, October 19 // 5:00-6:30 pm // Pamplin 1003
What does it mean to be professional—and how do you demonstrate professionalism before you even start your first full-time job? In this interactive Skills Lab, you’ll explore the behaviors, communication strategies, and workplace expectations that can help you make a positive impression and build strong professional relationships. From navigating workplace communication and etiquette to managing expectations, receiving feedback, and building your professional reputation, you’ll leave with practical strategies you can use in internships, part-time jobs, campus roles, and your future career.
Grad School Application Review
Tuesday, November 3 // 5:00-6:00 pm // Zoom
Preparing to apply to graduate school? Get personalized feedback on your application materials from alumni who have successfully navigated the graduate school application process. During this application review event, alumni will meet with students to review materials such as personal statements, statements of purpose, résumés or CVs, and other application components. Bring a draft—at any stage—and come prepared to ask questions, receive constructive feedback, and learn strategies for presenting your experiences, interests, and goals effectively. Whether you’re just getting started or putting the finishing touches on your application, this is an opportunity to strengthen your materials before you submit.
Registration opens October 5 and closes October 25.
Career Ready: Small Steps Over Breaks
Tuesday, November 3 // 6:00-6:30 pm // Zoom
You don’t need a full-time internship to make meaningful career progress over a break. Small, intentional steps can help you build skills, explore career options, strengthen your network, and prepare for future opportunities. In this session, you’ll identify practical ways to use winter, spring, or summer breaks to move your career goals forward—from connecting with professionals and exploring industries to updating your résumé, building skills, and gaining experience. Leave with a realistic plan for turning a little time into meaningful career momentum.
Past Participants of Take the Lead
- Accenture Federal Services
- America's Got Talent
- ASP
- Berkeley Group
- Bike & Build
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Capital One
- CBIZ
- CIA
- City of Salem
- Community Housing Partners
- Cvent
- Deloitte
- Department of Homeland Security
- Disney
- DoorDash
- EGJ Gallo
- Elizabeth Evans Co
- Enterprise
- ESPN
- Fairfax County Public Schools
- FBI
- Firefli
- Geico
- Grant Thornton
- HESONWHEELS
- Insight Global
- Kohl's Select Group
- NASA
- National Institute of Health
- NBA 2k League
- New England Patriots
- NYU
- Otis Elevator
- Red Ventures
- Richmond Behavioral Health Authority
- ServiceSource
- The Late Show with James Corden
- US General Services
- Virginia Rural Health Association
- Virginia Tech
- Waterloo Street