Senior Launch Program

In Fall 2024, every graduating College of Arts & Sciences senior will be assigned a Senior Launch Coach.  Conservatory students will also receive resources through the Conservatory's Office of Professional Development. Oberlin College faculty and staff members from CELA and partner departments have committed to personally guiding students during their final semester, connecting them to professional support services, and helping Oberlin celebrate the successful launch of the Class of 2025.

Each coach will be matched with a cohort of final year students based on their own background and professional expertise. They will communicate with these students throughout the spring semester, ensuring that they have access to the resources and help they need to successfully plan their first steps away from Oberlin.

During the fall semester, Launch Coaches will reach out to cohorts of graduating students, connecting each student to the help and encouragement of a Senior Launch Coach.

Career Exploration and Development workshops and events feature topics of great importance to graduating seniors. A full list of workshops can be found on this page; make sure to check back throughout the year for additional information. 

As Senior Launch Coaches communicate the wants and needs of graduating seniors, additional support and programming will be designed accordingly.  We are committed to meeting students where they are and helping them get where they want to go next.

Financial Literacy for Your First Job

From tax forms and W-9s to beneficiaries and benefits, your first job comes with significant financial decisions. Join us to get the guidance you need to start your career with confidence.

This event is a collaboration between Career Exploration and Development and the Center for Student Success.

• Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 12:15-1:00 p.m.
• Moffett Auditorium/Mudd A-050 (register on Handshake)

Ask Me Anything: Senior Career Connection Nights

Hear from Oberlin alumni who are established in the career community of your choice! These virtual sessions offer a low-stakes opportunity to learn from an Obie and get your pressing questions answered. Alumni guests will offer anecdotes, advice, and resources to help you get started in your field–followed by an Ask Me Anything session with each alum.

This event is a collaboration between the Office of Alumni Engagement and Career Exploration and Development.

• Ask Me Anything Night #1
  • Law and Public Policy | Careers with Social Impact
  • Tuesday, February 25, 2025 | 5-6 pm
  • Register on Handshake
• Ask Me Anything Night #2
  • Medical, Global Health, and STEM | Business, Consulting, and Finance
  • Wednesday, February 26, 2025 | 5-6 pm
  • Register on Handshake
• Ask Me Anything Night #3
  • Arts, Communications, and Creative Professions | Music Leadership, Education, and Administration
  • Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 5-6 pm
  • Register on Handshake
• All events will be virtual

Get Your Life: Power Moves for Postgrad Success

Ready to take charge of your next chapter? This empowering workshop is designed to help soon-to-be-graduates confidently navigate their postgrad career journey. Through guided reflections on your unique skills, strengths, and values, you'll uncover the tools needed to align your next steps with your personal and professional goals.

This event is a collaboration between Career Exploration and Development and the Center for Student Success.

• Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 12:15-1:00 p.m.
• Moffett Auditorium/Mudd A-050 (register on Handshake)

To view our full list of workshops and register for sessions, log in to Handshake.

First 90 Days on the Job: A Conversation with President Ambar and Senior Launch Party

Starting a new job or postgrad opportunity is exciting! However, integrating into a new environment and team, navigating your transition and onboarding, and managing expectations can be stressful. This candid conversation with President Ambar will cover how to achieve success and make a positive impact during your first ninety days on the job.

After President Ambar's conversation, join the Senior Launch Coaches in celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2025.

• Wednesday, April 16, 2025 | 5-6:30 pm
• Moffett Auditorium/Mudd A-050 (register on Handshake)

Past Events

Senior Launch Kickoff

Come mingle with Senior Launch Coaches and fellow senior class members as we kick off Senior Launch 2025. Learn more about Senior Launch programming and how your Senior Launch Coach, CED, CELA, and other campus departments can support you during your final semesters on campus and after commencement.

Light refreshments will be served. Please register for this event so we know to expect you.

Please note this event is for Oberlin seniors who will be graduating in Fall 2024 or Spring 2025.

• Thursday, September 26, 2024, 4:30-6:00 p.m.
• Moffett Auditorium/Mudd A-050 (register on Handshake)

As always, students have the opportunity to schedule individual appointments with a Career Advisor to discuss the career planning process more in depth.

Appointments can be scheduled through Handshake (Category: Career Exploration and Development; Type: Select a career community or Getting Started).