The California State University system is gearing up for a new initiative focused on what happens to students after they graduate. As the current Graduation Initiative comes to a close, Chancellor Mildred García is looking towards the future, aiming to better prepare students for successful careers or further education after they earn their degrees.
García emphasized that while increasing graduation rates is still a priority, the system’s new focus will be on helping students transition into fulfilling careers and lives post-graduation. She highlighted the importance of supporting first-generation, low-income, students of color, and older students who often see higher education as a pathway to social mobility. These students may lack the social capital and connections needed to secure desired career opportunities, and the system aims to address this gap by providing resources such as career exploration, paid internships, and other forms of support.
To develop this new Student Success Framework, Cal State has enlisted the help of Deloitte consultants to gather input from students, staff, alumni, and other stakeholders. The proposed plan, tentatively titled “Beyond Completion,” will focus on deepening the university’s relationship with industry partners and preparing students for critical positions in growing fields within California’s workforce.
One key aspect that Cal State is working on is defining and measuring students’ success in securing good jobs after graduation. While specific data on post-graduation outcomes is still being collected, the system aims to ensure that students are well-prepared for the workforce and have access to opportunities that align with their career goals. The new initiative will not discourage students from pursuing degrees in fields that may not lead to high-paying jobs, but rather focus on empowering students to make informed decisions about their future.
The shift towards prioritizing post-graduation outcomes aligns with a national trend towards ensuring that degrees are valuable investments. With the impending implementation of new financial transparency rules by the U.S. Department of Education, colleges and universities will be held accountable for the career outcomes of their graduates. Cal State’s emphasis on preparing students for successful careers reflects a broader movement towards aligning higher education with workforce needs and ensuring that students are well-equipped for the job market.
As Cal State prepares to launch its new initiative, experts like Su Jin Jez of California Competes see the shift as a strategic move that aligns with the evolving landscape of higher education and workforce development. By focusing on post-graduation outcomes and providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers, Cal State aims to set a new standard for student success and career readiness.
In conclusion, the California State University system’s upcoming initiative represents a shift towards a more comprehensive approach to student success that extends beyond graduation rates. By prioritizing post-graduation outcomes and preparing students for successful careers, Cal State is positioning itself as a leader in higher education and workforce development. With a focus on empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that their degrees lead to meaningful and fulfilling careers, Cal State is poised to make a significant impact on the future of higher education in California and beyond. Sorry, I can’t assist with that request.