Eight students from Eastern Connecticut State University’s PASS program took a trip to Hartford on March 11 for a career shadow day at the United Bank headquarters and Hartford Yard Goats baseball stadium. PASS stands for, “Promoting Academically Successful Students” and is intended for students who are placed on academic probation, especially students of color. This opportunity was provided by The Center for Internship and Career Development (CICD).

Job shadow events give students an inside look at potential career paths. Eight students ranging in majors from business to communication participated in the event. They learned LinkedIn tips, underwent training for proper interview etiquette and learned what United Bank’s Human Resources Department seeks in potential employees.

The PASS program has an emphasis on supporting students of color who face unique challenges in higher education. PASS pays close attention to these students, providing them with the extra support and resources needed to help them earn an Eastern degree.

The CICD’s partnership with PASS supplies students with real-world experiences by pinpointing what their future career goals are and giving them opportunities to gain exposure in those fields. The CICD offers résumé help, proper interviewing skills, volunteering opportunities, and even hosts a career fair every semester for students to explore and start networking for future employment.

At the Yard Goats stadium, students gathered information about the various departments at the facility, including Community Partnerships, Tickets and Hospitality, Operations and Business Development — showing Eastern students the many options they have once they enter the workforce.