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Critical Thinking: The Skill Behind Every Smart Choice
Critical Thinking, a key NACE Career Competency, is a valuable skill to have in the workplace when there aren't often clear "right answers" for solving problems. Employers value individuals who can break down complex problems, identify what information is relevant (and what isn’t), and make sound judgments even when data is incomplete. This skill also helps professionals avoid common pitfalls such as bias, groupthink, or overreliance on automated tools.
In addition, critical thinking enhances other key career competencies like communication and teamwork. When you can clearly explain why you made a decision, you contribute more effectively to group discussions, build credibility with colleagues, and help teams reach better outcomes. Leaders, in particular, depend on critical thinking to weigh risks, anticipate consequences, and guide organizations through uncertainty.
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Dukes Jumpstart Accelerator
March 27 | Day 2 | 1040, GCFE Suite
If you are thinking about starting a business, consider this flexible accelerator—attend the session(s) you need the most or complete all six to earn a spot at Demo Day! To learn more, CLICK HERE.
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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.
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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!
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May/August 2026 Graduates
April 1 | Application Deadline
If you are graduating in May or August 2026, you may apply now via MyMadison. To learn more, CLICK HERE.
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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.
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Fireside Chat with Matthew Murray
April 2 | 5:00 - 8:00PM | The Forum, Hartman Hall
Join the Gilliam Center for Entrepreneurship for an evening conversation with Matthew Murray, an entrepreneur and creative strategist whose work has helped shape globally recognized brands including Oakley, Theragun, Getty Images, and Love Wellness. REGISTER TODAY!
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Open Coffee with Matthew Murray
April 3 | 9:30 - 11:30AM | The Forum, Hartman Hall
During this Open Coffee, Matthew will share insights on how creativity, strategy, and purpose intersect in building meaningful brands. Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect, enjoy coffee and shop handmade crafts from Student-Made JMU. 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.
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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!
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NYC & Northern VA Career Treks Info Sessions
April 14 | 5:30 - 6:00PM | EY Suite 1013, Hartman Hall
April 14 | 5:00 - 5:30PM | EY Suite 1013, Hartman Hall
With the recruitment process starting earlier than ever, join us during Fall Break 2026 as we travel to NYC to explore the world of Wall Street, and during Winter Break 2027 to learn more about the consulting industry in Northern Virginia. Attend an upcoming info session to learn more about each trek. Applications open April 1. To learn more, CLICK HERE.
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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!
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LinkedIn Learning
Your community's libraries are a great tool for exploring career-related goals. HERE'S one LinkedIn Learning video available through JMU Libraries that can strengthen career readiness competency in Critical Thinking. Using Questions to Foster Critical Thinking and Curiosity Looking for resources to improve your career readiness? Meet with your business librarian!
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Peer Research Advisers
Want to go beyond Google to find quality business information? Our Peer Research Advisers (PRAs) can help! PRAs are business students who have passed COB 300 and undergone additional training in business research to be ready to help students with navigating business databases and research strategies. This year we have three accomplished PRAs — Claire, Payton and Umar! Book a consult for yourself or your group. To learn more, CLICK HERE.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 | | | | |
