Letter to the Editor: CLBR Funding Opportunity

Submitted on 13 November 2019

Letters do not necessarily reflect the views of the Quest or the Editorial Board.

As of right now, Center for Life Beyond Reed is funding $600 towards a Job Shadow opportunity for students who would like to spend part of their Winter Break (Dec 20 – Jan 26) pursuing a shadowing experience. More funding is available if you combine your Career Advancement Fund ($500) with the shadow money, and you can apply to receive $200 more if you have significant financial need. The funding is available on a rolling basis, with the deadline on December 4th at noon, or until the funds have been exhausted. Currently enrolled students, including Spring/Fall seniors graduating in December 2019, are eligible to apply. The details of the job shadow application process and the requirements in greater detail are listed on the Center for Life Beyond Reed website under the tab “Fellowships & Awards: Job Shadow Fund: Winter 2019-2020.” 

Shadowing is a great way to get a peek behind the curtain into a potential job or career you’re interested in, and also a prime time to make connections or start networking early before the summer job hunting season starts. Connections are key! (And if you want business cards, come to CLBR in Prexy, we’ll hook you up!) If you don’t know where to start- that’s okay! Reach out to Center for Life Beyond Reed via Handshake, email, stop by Prexy, go to drop-in advising (times & locations listed on our website), or Peer Career Advisor Express Advising Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Prexy!

CLBR describes a job shadow as “a chance to observe and follow Reed alumni, parents, and anyone you want to ask for a short period of time (often two to ten days), to allow you to explore what happens in a field in which you have interest.”

It will consist of you meeting up with a contact you’ve already established, and following them about their day-to-day experiences on the job while also taking the time to build mentor relationships and ask questions about how your contact got to the place they are now. It’s also just a cool way to dip your toes into the water if you’re curious or even considering a potential career in any industry down the line — you have plenty of time to make up your mind!

Also, if you need any help crafting your resume, cover letter, budget, or getting your hands on a confirmation letter (all of which are part of the application), please come to Express Advising with your Peer Career Advisors any day of the week Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Prexy. We have hot cocoa and coffee! You can also make an appointment with a CLBR staff member online at Handshake (which us PCA’s can also help you navigate!).