Laying the Foundation: A Job Search Roadmap from Freshman Year to Grad School A Podcast Conversation with NIU Career Services
Finding your first real job can feel overwhelming, but Northern Illinois University students don’t have to navigate the journey alone. NIU Career Services has evolved into a powerful hub of support, guidance, and real-world connections designed to prepare students for the fast-paced job market.
Students often think of the job search as something that begins only when graduation is near. Many imagine applications, cover letters, résumés and career fairs as senior year tasks. In reality, a successful transition from college to career is a longer, more intentional process. NIU Career Services offers a clear look into how students can build a solid foundation for career success throughout their time at NIU.
In this episode of the NIU STEAM Studio Podcast, we welcome a trio of experts from NIU Career Services—Michaela Holtz, Director of Career Readiness and Success; Steph Horgan, Assistant Director of Employer Engagement; and Tara Dickson, Assistant Director for Career Counseling and Education. To explore how the office has evolved to meet changing expectations in the labor market, supporting students at every stage from freshmen to graduate students. We dive into emerging workforce trends shaping the future, highlight the university’s expanding resources, and emphasize the partnerships and communities that help Huskies thrive long after graduation.
This episode challenges students to think differently about their career trajectory. Whether you’re creating your first résumé or applying for graduate level positions, NIU Career Services is ready to help you build the skills, networks, and confidence you need to succeed. Listen to the full conversation on STEAM Studio Spotlight, available now on your favorite podcast platform.
Michaela Holtz, Ed.D.. serves as the Director of Career Readiness and Success at Northern Illinois University, where she helps shape programs that connect classroom learning to meaningful career outcomes. A longtime NIU leader and “triple Huskie,” she has spent more than a decade advancing student engagement, experiential learning, and career preparation across campus.
Steph Horgan is the Assistant Director of Employer Engagement in Career Services at Northern Illinois University. She leads strategic outreach and builds partnerships with employers to help organizations connect with NIU talent and create meaningful recruiting opportunities. Steph is passionate about fostering strong employer relationships, understanding workforce needs, and helping employers access top candidates while engaging with the Huskie community.
Tara Dickson is the Assistant Director of Career Services at Northern Illinois University, where she leads the Career Education team and works to expand career readiness programming for students. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and has extensive experience in higher education, career development, and student engagement. Tara is passionate about helping students connect their academic experiences to meaningful career pathways and preparing them for success in the workforce.
