The College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) at Syracuse University is one of the few in the nation that has in-house career development for students.
The Office of Academic and Career Advising supports undergraduate and graduate students in all stages of their professional journey. Offerings include resume/cover letter reviews, developing an outstanding LinkedIn profile, finding an internship or job, networking tips, preparing for interviews, and guidance on career discernment.
In-house career advisors assist making your dreams a reality. Career advisors maintain close partnerships with industry leaders and alumni, connecting them to students through classroom presentations, information sessions, networking events, career fairs, on-campus interviewing, and more.
Patti Bevans
Assistant Director of Career Services (Design, Art, Transmedia)
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Jackie Flores
Career Advisor (Drama, Music, CRS)
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Available for Virtual Drop-Ins: Monday – Friday
9 – 10 a.m. and 1- 2 p.m.
(Via Microsoft Teams)
The Office of Academic and Career Advising conducts events targeted toward preparing students for career-week activities and beyond. Events include, but are not limited to, on-campus and virtual career fairs, alumni panel discussions and presentations, employer interviews, and portfolio reviews.
To stay updated on career events happening throughout the semester, log in to Handshake, and click on the "Events" tab.
An experience aimed at getting students outside of their comfort zone! Students become immersed in an opportunity to network with alumni and employers within their job setting while building professional relationships to further enhance their career goals.
Applicants must meet specific guidelines and comply with all requirements to become eligible for each trip.
Drop-in hours are another avenue where students can obtain career advice. Appointments are limited to 15-minute sessions and will be conducted through Microsoft Teams. A staff member will be available to address your immediate needs. If you are in need of additional time or a more extensive appointment, please schedule a one-on-one appointment with a career counselor at syr.joinhandshake.com.
Students have access to Microsoft Teams through their university Office 365 account. For more information or help getting started, please review the Teams documentation on Answers.
Alumni Mentor Program
The VPA alumni mentor program connects current students and recent graduates with active members of our alumni network living and working around the globe. Alumni offer career guidance and advice, provide insight into the current internship and job markets in their industries, assist with interview preparation, and more.
Employers are welcome to connect with our students throughout the year through in-person visits when possible, or virtually if necessary. We value relationships with our industry partners and are open to working with each employer to offer creative events to network with students and build your brand within our college. Some avenues we have utilized to assist employers in connecting to our students include:
Information sessions
Assistance with workshops and classroom presentations
