Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Use Your Brainpower: Developing Critical Thinking

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) identifies Critical Thinking as a key competency employers expect from today’s business graduates. It involves analyzing information, evaluating different perspectives, and making thoughtful decisions based on evidence. While technology and digital tools can help support decision-making, strong professionals rely first on their own brainpower to think through problems, ask questions, and consider possible solutions before turning to technology for assistance.


You can strengthen this skill by asking deeper questions, analyzing case studies, and explaining the reasoning behind your decisions during class discussions and projects. Developing the habit of thinking through challenges first, before turning to technology, helps build the problem-solving abilities employers value and prepares you to navigate complex business situations in your careers.

Deadline Dash

Madison Micros

March 22 | Application Deadline

 

The Madison Micros Program allows James Madison University students to gain career-related experience through short, project-based work (micro-internships). It helps students explore career paths and build experience for future internships, jobs, or graduate school applications. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

CoB Student Job Opportunities

Social Media Assistant



Join the College of Business Marketing & Communications team as a Social Media Student Assistant to create content, support campaigns, and help manage Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. This paid role (Fall 2026–Spring 2027, up to 10 hours/week) offers hands-on experience in social media strategy, storytelling, and digital engagement while building your portfolio. Email Carrie Wood at wood3cr@jmu.edu for further information by March 30.

Front Desk Assistant


Join the Office of Professional Development & Engagement as a EY Suite Front Desk Student Assistant. This position plays a vital role in supporting the daily operations of the office while promoting a welcoming and professional environment for both the office and the College of Business. Apply TODAY!


Mindful Messenger

Bluestone Seed Fund

March 27 | Application Deadline



This opportunity provides JMU students and alumni business owners with real-world entrepreneurial experience while also providing hands-on venture investing experience. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Econ Spring Social

April 1 | 6:30 - 7:30PM | The Forum, Hartman Hall


Stop by to connect with fellow students and network with faculty to learn more about the Department of Economics and get all your questions answered. Enjoy free pizza and soft drinks! Headcount is needed by March 27. Register TODAY!

Dukes Venture Accelerator

April 1 | Application Deadline



The Dukes Venture Accelerator is a six-week, paid summer internship program designed to take established, scalable student ventures to the next level. Accelerate your startup, acquire customers and de-risk your startup using proven methods all while forming close mentoring relationships with expert entrepreneurs in this competitive program. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

May/August 2026 Graduates

Applications Now Open


If you are graduating in May or August 2026, you may apply now via MyMadison. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Shop the CoB Store


Spring is the perfect time for a wardrobe refresh — and the school store has got you covered. Explore some new additions like a cozy mock-neck for those chilly mornings, and a visor made for sunny walks across campus. Plus, the fan-favorite quarter-zip has a new twist, giving you another reason to rep the College of Business on campus! If you haven’t browsed lately, now is the time. Place your order TODAY!

Library Spotlight

Critical Thinking


Your community's libraries are a great tool for exploring career-related goals. HERE'S one article available from the Libraries' Financial Times subscription that suggests how you can strengthen your career readiness in Critical Thinking. 'Why men should really be reading more fiction' by Jemima Kelly Looking for resources to improve your career readiness? Meet with your business librarian!

Read Purple


Traveling for Spring Break? Borrow a fun novel for your trip from the Read Purple book cart! Located in the first-floor hallway connecting Hartman and Showker halls.

Endless Resources

We Want to Hear from YOU!



If you have something positive to share about a CoB program you attended, an idea for a new initiative or concern about a college experience you’ve had, the SAC members are your go-to resource. They’ll carry your thoughts forward for discussion and consideration. CLICK HERE to let them know what's on your mind.

Virtual Interview Rooms

M-F | 9:00-5:00PM | EY Professional Development & Undergraduate Programs Suite



The College of Business has virtual interview rooms for CoB students to reserve to ensure a quiet space for your interviews. Each room is equipped with a computer, camera, and microphone to facilitate your virtual interviews. RESERVE YOUR ROOM TODAY.

Seeking an Internship or Job



The Office of Professional Development and Engagement provides weekly small group career coaching sessions focused on internships and jobs. These sessions are designed to guide you through the process of searching for opportunities, networking, and more. These sessions are held in-person in the Hartman Hall EY Professional Development and Undergraduate Suite. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Join a Career Community



The University Career Center has launched the JMU Career Communities! Join the Career Communities that aligns with your major and the job functions and industry you are interested in. You will receive a customized newsletter, showing employer events, internship, and job postings related to your major and industry interest. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

College of Business University Career Center Liaison

Every Thursday | 3:00-5:00PM | Hartman Hall, Employer Space


Drop by and meet with Hadgu Hadgu, the University Career Center Liaison for the College of Business for valuable discussions and guidance about career ideas, resumes, interviews, job searches, internships, graduate schools, and networking. No appointment is required.

JMU Career Closet

M-F | 8:00-5:00PM | Student Success Center 3rd Floor, Suite 3250



Get ready for JMU Career Fairs, interviews, and class presentations with our curated collection of professional work attire, available to all current JMU students for free. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Handshake



Handshake offers JMU students access to: Internships and job opportunities tailored for JMU students; career fairs, workshops, and events hosted by the University Career Center; employer events, info sessions, and on-campus interviews; and appointments with JMU Career Advisors at the University Career Center. To activate your account, CLICK HERE.

Volunteer Locally



There are many opportunities for you to give back and volunteer locally with our Harrisonburg community partners. Find something that speaks to you! For a full list of opportunities and community partners, CLICK HERE.

Undergraduate Programs/Professional Development & Engagement Staff

Sam Collier, Director, Professional Development and Engagement

Schedule an Appointment


Erica Kann, Associate Director, Professional Development and Engagement

Schedule an Appointment


Haley Iden, Program Manager

Schedule an Appointment

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