In the summer 2012 issue of The Catholic University of America Magazine , we asked faculty and staff from throughout the University to offer practical advice based on their areas of expertise. We printed six sets of five tips on a variety of topics. In this "online extra," we offer two more sets of tips to help make the back-to-school and back-to-work transitions less stressful.
Creating a Partnership with Your Child's Teacher
- Start the School Year off Right. Attend the school's open house. Meet the teacher. Inquire about the best mode of communication that fits your teacher's style. Does he or she prefer email or phone calls? How about texting or stopping by quickly before or after school? Does the teacher have a classroom blog or a homework listserv? Check the school's and classroom's website often.
- Be Available and Visible Throughout the Year. Check in often with the teacher, not only when there is a problem, but also when you have positive feedback. Also, be present at home with your child. Help with homework as needed. Ask your child about his or her day. Be specific by asking what topics are being learned in particular subjects. Ask what books your child is reading in school. Ask who your child played with at recess. Inquire about your child's favorite part of the day.
- Take a Respectful Stance. You are an advocate for your child. But advocacy requires respect and a desire to understand each other. If an issue arises, keep an open mind and gather as much information as possible before a meeting takes place. At the meeting, come prepared with very good questions and listen to all sides of the issue. Focus the conversation toward future solutions.
- Support the Professionalism of the Teacher. Have trust that the teacher is a professional who is educated, trained, and highly qualified for the position he or she holds. Have trust that the teacher is consistently working in the best interest of your child.
- Ask What You Can Do to Help. Offer to volunteer. Let the teacher know your expertise. Perhaps you can help with the science fair, tutoring, career day, or maintaining the classroom website.
| - Kathleen Perencevich, assistant professor, and Rona Frederick, associate professor, Department of Education |
Looking for a Job in a Tough Economy
- Get your Resume/Cover Letter in Order First. Work on creating a resume and cover letter that are targeted to a particular position or industry, highlighting skills that are directly related or transferable. You may need different versions for different positions. Make it easy for the employer to see why you are a good fit for the job.
- Research the Industry and Company You are Applying to. The more you know about the organization, the better you can draw connections to it. In addition to checking an organization's website, look up key employees in the organization, review current events the employer has been involved in or the industry is facing, and research what its competitors are doing. Highlight what specifically you like about the company and what you bring to the table.
- Make Use of CUA's Career Services Office. Catholic University has many tools and services including Cardinal Connection, the University's online system that employers use to advertise jobs and internships that specifically target CUA students and alumni. You can find out more at http://success.catholic.edu .
- Let People Know What You are Looking for. Join specialized groups or organizations in your field of interest. Speak with colleagues, professors, coaches, advisers, parents, friends, and alumni about your interests. You never know who has a connection to the industry you want to work in.
- Utilize Online Networking Sites such as LinkedIn. There are many CUA alumni and professionals out there who are willing to assist you in your search by providing information on a position or an organization, giving you advice on interviewing, or putting you in touch with someone who has an open position. Check out and join some of the various CUA groups already using LinkedIn.
| - Anthony Chiapetta, director, career services |
