As Indiana’s colleges and universities strive to produce more job-ready graduates for growing industries, another priority — that of instilling “soft skills” among prospective employees — is a priority as well.
During Innovate Indiana’s recent E2E Convergence conference held at IUPUI’s Campus Center, these “soft skills” — areas that range from communications, leadership traits and flexibility to teamwork, problem solving and the ability to work under pressure — were identified as an area where many college graduates need significant improvement.
Toward that end, a series of programs at IU Kokomo known as Freshman Learning Communities help students get an early start in honing such skills. As part of the program for business students, participants dress in professional business attire and meet in small groups with community volunteers for mock interviews, resume reviews and feedback on what employers look for when hiring.
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