Hosted by Penn Libraries—Academic Engagement
This summer, we will be featuring blog posts written by PhD students who participated in Career Services’ Career Exploration Fellowship (CEF), a program that helps doctoral candidates explore their career interests through networking opportunities with advanced degree professionals. Click here to learn more about CEF.
Starting my PhD program this past fall, I wanted to take advantage of every opportunity the University of Pennsylvania had to offer. When I got the email about the Career Exploration Fellowship accepting applications, I knew I had to apply! Though I’ve always been open to a career in academia, the best thing I can do for my future job prospects is to make connections and broaden my horizons, and that’s exactly what I accomplished during my semester as a CEF Fellow.
Working with Penn Libraries, I was able to meet employees with PhDs who contribute to the diverse goals and inner workings of the library, including research, engagement, and community outreach. Rebecca Stuhr was a fantastic and welcoming host and set up many informational interviews for me with people all across the library. I am now aware of all the possibilities that await me in librarianship, and I feel confident in my ability to find a position after graduation that utilizes my education in a fulfilling and supportive manner.
Anyone who is curious about the opportunities that exist outside academia should apply for CEF, especially those in the humanities who might not be aware, just as I wasn’t, about all the opportunities that exist! I’m so grateful for my experiences this past semester and all the connections I made not only with my host and the library, but with other CEF Fellows as well.
