Aberdeen, S.D. – At Northern State University, career preparation is about more than finding a job—it’s about helping students envision and build their futures. To reflect that focus, the university is renaming its Career Services Department to Career Design, a name that captures its commitment to helping students take an active role in shaping their professional journeys.
The name change reflects the department’s evolving mission to help students navigate the many decisions that shape a meaningful career. Through self-discovery, exploration, skill-building and strategic planning, Career Design gives students the tools to connect their interests, strengths and values with opportunities that fit the lives they want to build.
“Career development is about much more than finding employment,” said Carly Bierman, Career Design coordinator. “The term Career Design better captures the innovative, student-centered work our team does every day. We help students identify possibilities, build meaningful experiences, and create careers that are uniquely their own.”
While the department’s name is changing, its commitment to student success remains stronger than ever. Career Design will continue to offer a comprehensive range of services, including:
- Career exploration and planning
- Individual career coaching
- Résumé and cover letter development.
- Interview preparation
- Internship and experiential learning support
- Employer engagement and networking opportunities
- Graduate school preparation
- Career readiness programming and workshops
- Wolves Wardrobe, the new professional attire and career closet
The rebranding aligns with national trends in higher education and career readiness that emphasize lifelong career management, adaptability and intentional career planning in a rapidly changing workforce.
“Today's students will likely experience multiple career changes throughout their lives,” said Bierman “Our goal is to equip them with the confidence, skills and mindset needed to navigate those changes successfully. Career Design reflects that broader vision.”
Students, alumni, employers, faculty and community partners can expect the same high-quality support and collaborative partnerships they have come to know, now under a name that more accurately reflects the department’s purpose and impact.
For more information about Career Design and its services, visit https://northern.edu/student-life/student-success-center/career-services or contact careerdesign@northern.edu.