Raider Career Impact Awards

Award Description:

This prestigious award is presented to a Rutgers University – Newark student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment in their role as a Career Services Ambassador. The Student Ambassador of the Year award recipient exemplifies the qualities of a peer leader, advocates for the Office of Career Resources and Exploration (CRE) programs, and actively promotes career readiness for fellow students.

Nomination Criteria:

• Actively participates in CRE events, workshops, and outreach initiatives.
• Demonstrates leadership qualities and an ability to motivate and assist peers.
• Promotes career development resources to the student body.
• Models professional behavior and engagement both on and off campus.
• Shows commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Award Description:

The Student Intern of the Year award recognizes a Rutgers University – Newark student who has excelled in an internship role, demonstrating outstanding professionalism, initiative, and growth. This award honors a student who has made significant contributions to the internship site, shown a strong commitment to their personal and professional development, and taken full advantage of the opportunities the internship provided.

Nomination Criteria:

• Demonstrates strong work ethic, responsibility, and punctuality.
• Shows exceptional initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Contributes to the success of the internship organization or team.
• Demonstrates professional development and growth in the field.
• Has a positive impact on the workplace culture.

Award Description:

The Employer of the Year award is presented to an employer with exceptional commitment to providing high-quality internships, jobs, or mentorship opportunities for Rutgers University – Newark students. This employer supports student development, encourages career readiness, and creates an inclusive and supportive work environment for students.

Nomination Criteria:

• Provides meaningful internships or job opportunities for students.
• Demonstrates a commitment to student development and mentorship.
• Creates a diverse and inclusive work environment.
• Fosters professional growth, providing students with valuable feedback and learning experiences.
• Actively collaborates with the Office of Career Resources and Exploration (CRE) to develop student-focused initiatives.

Award Description:

This award recognizes a Rutgers University – Newark faculty or staff member who has gone above and beyond in fostering a strong partnership with the Office of Career Resources and Exploration (CRE). The recipient of the Faculty/Staff Ambassador & Partner of the Year award demonstrates an ongoing commitment to supporting students’ career development and connecting them with valuable opportunities.

Nomination Criteria:

• Actively collaborates with CRE in promoting career readiness initiatives.
• Encourages students to utilize CRE resources and attend events.
• Provides career readiness mentorship and guidance to students.
• Promotes the integration of career development into classroom instruction.
• Demonstrates leadership in helping students navigate the job market.

Award Description:

The Public Service Internship Champion Award recognizes a RU-N student who has shown exemplary service to a non-profit organization/governmental agency that serves the public, through an internship in the 2024-2025 academic year. This award celebrates a student’s dedication, hard work, and the unique contributions they make to a non-profit/governmental agency while pursuing their career goals in this public serving space.

Nomination Criteria:

• Commitment to Service – The student has displayed a strong commitment to public service, going beyond the basic requirements of their internship to actively contribute to the organization’s mission.
• Impact & Contribution – The nominee has made tangible contributions to their organization, such as implementing a project, enhancing operations, improving community engagement, or supporting critical services.
• Professional Growth & Leadership – The student has demonstrated professionalism, leadership, and initiative, taking on responsibilities that showcase their ability to grow as a leader in the public service sector.
• Advocacy & Social Responsibility – The nominee has actively engaged in initiatives that support community well-being, equity, and social justice, embodying the values of ethical service and advocacy.
• Collaboration & Teamwork – The student has worked effectively with supervisors, colleagues, and community members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment within the organization.

Award Description:

The CareeThreads Champion of the Year Award recognizes an individual or organization who has contributed to the CareerThreads Professional Career Closet at Rutgers University – Newark. This award celebrates those who donated to CareerThreads and/or promoted the resources to other professionals, organizations, and/or students.

Nomination Criteria:

• Donated professional attire to CareerThreads in academic year 2024/2025
• Actively promotes CareerThreads to other professionals, organizations, and/or students.
• Donated funds towards CareerThreads

Award Description:

The Career Trailblazer Award honors a graduating undergraduate student who has exhibited dedication to intentionally navigating their career journey throughout their college experience. This award recognizes an individual who has actively engaged with career services, sought out internships, volunteered, and formed meaningful connections with employers to build a solid foundation for their future professional success. The recipient has shown initiative in exploring career opportunities, demonstrated resilience in the face of challenges, and consistently made thoughtful, proactive choices that have advanced their career goals. The Career Trailblazer Award celebrates a student who has maximized their college experience by embracing opportunities for growth, leadership, and professional development.

Nomination Criteria:

• Engagement with Career Services: Actively utilized career services throughout their college career, including seeking guidance on resume building, career counseling, and interview preparation.
• Internships and Professional Experience: Completed at least one internship, co-op, or other professional development opportunity related to their field of study, demonstrating a commitment to gaining real-world experience.
• Volunteerism and Leadership: Participated in volunteer opportunities, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities that have contributed to personal and professional growth.
• Proactive Career Planning: Demonstrated a clear, intentional approach to career planning, including setting goals, seeking out mentors, and utilizing networking opportunities with employers, faculty, and alumni.
• Resilience and Initiative: Exhibited resilience and initiative in overcoming obstacles related to career development, such as securing internships or balancing academic responsibilities with career-related activities.
• Commitment to Professional Development: Participated in workshops, seminars, or other career development initiatives that have enhanced their skills, knowledge, and career readiness.