Widener University’s commitment to providing student-focused career resources has continued to remain strong in the face of constantly shifting schedules and general uncertainty within the community. WidenerCONNECT is one of the newest and most comprehensive programs introduced by the Office of Career Design and Development and is available to all Widener students! The program functions as a social and professional networking site between current Widener University students and alumni. Students are able to search for internship and career opportunities by industry, city, and major, in addition to speaking with Widener alumni concerning their real experiences in the workforce. Existing profiles, like those from Handshake or LinkedIn, can be linked to a WidenerCONNECT account for an easy sign-up process.  
Natalie Daddona, the administrative secretary to the Office of Career Design and Development, provided comments about the numerous benefits of WidenerCONNECT. All current undergraduate and graduate Widener students and alumni are eligible to participate in the WidenerCONNECT community, regardless of previous industry experience. Aside from the ability to search for career and internship opportunities, students are able to receive feedback on resume and cover letters, speak directly with alumni in the industry, and receive personalized advice and assistance. Ms. Daddona commented that “students can meet with alumni directly in a timely fashion, something that is not common to most major job sites or networking programs”. WidenerCONNECT bases its improvement on real-time student feedback, which students are able to submit after meeting with alumni mentors. As a result, the program is ever-changing to suit the needs of the Widener community and their ambitions.  
The alumni experience is as expansive as the student counterpart on WidenerCONNECT. Similar to current Widener students, alumni are able to connect and network with other alumni on the platform. WidenerCONNECT provides the opportunity for members of the same graduating classes to reconnect and share career advice. One alumna was even able to use the platform to find a new position in Washington after consulting with her fellow alumni! Besides the professional aspects of the site, alumni are able to organize group functions and share their own experiences with former classmates more fluidly compared to other programs.  
As a whole, WidenerCONNECT offers myriad professional and personal opportunities to all current Widener students and alumni in a manner not obtainable through more mainstream platforms. Current students are encouraged to take advantage of the available resources and alumni mentorships, and alumni can receive advice concerning their own careers years after graduation. Please use the link provided below to sign up for this comprehensive and invaluable program!