In today's rapidly changing and fiercely competitive job market, the focus on nurturing talent for Ohio's workforce and its future prosperity has never been more crucial. The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) today announces a significant step in supporting this direction by introducing an exciting new program, TalentedU, designed to provide member campuses with valuable resources to enhance the career readiness of their students.
What is TalentedU?
TalentedU is a student career-readiness experience that aims to equip member campus students with the skills and competencies they need to boost their career readiness and become even more competitive in seeking internships and full-time jobs. The program consists of eight online modules that students can complete at their own pace or together with a faculty or staff member. These modules are carefully crafted to align with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) competencies, making them highly relevant and practical for students.
The eight career-readiness modules covered by TalentedU are as follows:
Career & Self-Development
Communication
Critical Thinking
Equity & Inclusion
Leadership
Professionalism
Teamwork
Technology
OFIC partnered with Intern Bridge, a national leader in experiential education research & consulting to carefully develop the student experience with the 8 NACE Career Readiness pillars as a model. Each module offers a unique learning experience, combining videos and typed responses to ensure that students gain a comprehensive understanding of these essential competencies.
How to Receive an OFIC Career Readiness Badge Through Credly
By completing all eight modules, students will earn a digital career readiness badge through Credly, the largest and most-connected digital credential network which is widely recognized in the eyes of employers. The digital career readiness badge through Credly adds a practical dimension to the program. It serves as a tangible recognition of a student's dedication and achievement in acquiring these crucial skills. This badge can be proudly displayed on resumes and LinkedIn profiles, catching the eye of potential employers and setting candidates apart from the competition.
“One of the standout features of the TalentedU program is its flexibility,” stated Dr. Robert Shindell, Intern Bridge Founder and CEO. “The online, self-paced format allows students to engage with the material at their own convenience, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals with different schedules and commitments. It's a perfect fit for both traditional and non-traditional students.”
The significance of these competencies cannot be overstated in today's job market. Employers are not only seeking candidates with academic knowledge but also those who possess the skills required to thrive in a professional setting. TalentedU acknowledges this need and will set OFIC students apart from others seeking internships and full-time jobs upon graduation.
“For our 33 member campuses and their students, the TalentedU program is a game-changer,” said Bill Spiker, OFIC President. “It provides an invaluable resource to help students become job-ready individuals with a competitive edge over other college students. The partnership between OFIC and member-campus Career Centers highlights a commitment to preparing students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their careers and lives.”
“TalentedU is a transformative program that empowers students to become confident and capable professionals,” said Melanie Garrabrant, OFIC’s Manager of Business Partnerships. “By aligning with NACE competencies and offering a digital badge through Credly, this program is a testament to OFIC's dedication to enhancing the educational experience and preparing students for a successful future. The launch of TalentedU is a momentous step in helping OFIC students successfully cross the bridge from campus to career,” added Garrabrant.
“Talent for Ohio” is a theme of the OFIC Strategic Plan and the launch of TalentedU is an objective as we look to both fulfill that plan and connect students with Ohio employers. The power of partnership and innovation in Ohio’s independent higher education sector will strengthen and support Ohio’s economy.
Learn more at ofic.org/talentedu or contact talentedu@ofic.org.