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Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Critical Thinking: Make Your Thinking a Competitive Advantage


NACE identifies Critical Thinking as a key career competency and is an essential skill as you prepare to navigate complex challenges and make informed decisions in the workplace.


It involves analyzing information, asking thoughtful questions, considering different perspectives, and using sound judgment to identify effective solutions. Whether evaluating a business problem, interpreting data, developing a strategy, or making a decision, strong critical thinking skills help you approach challenges thoughtfully and confidently.


Think about how you use critical thinking in your coursework and daily life, and be sure to highlight those experiences on your resume and during interviews. Being able to demonstrate your critical thinking skills can help you stand out and give you a competitive advantage in the job market.

Deadline Dash

Help Shape the Future of the College of Business

September 16 | Survey Deadline


The College of Business is asking for your feedback to help guide our upcoming strategic planning process. Your experiences are vital to continuing to ensure that we provide a high-quality educational experience to you and future students. Please take a few minutes to fill out the survey HERE.

Microsoft Office: Outlook 101

September 16 | 5:00 - 6:00PM | Hartman Hall 2008


This interactive workshop introduces undergraduate students to the essential Microsoft Outlook skills they will need for internships, professional communication, and the workplace. Through guided demonstrations and hands-on activities, students learn how to set up and use Outlook in a professional and organized manner. REGISTER TODAY!

Join the JMU Banking Team

September 16 | Application Deadline


Join a team of JMU students to conduct original research, build professional skills, and represent JMU at the national Corcoran Center Real Estate Case Competition focused on affordable housing. Team meetings run from September through mid-November, with additional opportunities in Spring 2027. Please direct any questions about the team and/or application process to Dr. Carl Larsson at larssocf@jmu.edu. To apply, CLICK HERE.

Looking Back on the Summer: Internship Edition

September 16 | 8:15PM | Hartman Hall 3043


Join us for an Internship Insights Panel featuring College of Business students who completed internships across a wide range of firms and finance-related roles. Panelists will share their experiences navigating the internship search process, preparing for interviews, adapting to professional environments, and exploring different career paths within the industry. REGISTER TODAY!

Semester in Antwerp Info Session

September 17 | 12:00 - 12:30PM | Hartman Hall EY Suite

September 21 | 4:00 - 4:30PM | Hartman Hall EY Suite


Are you interested in learning more about a Semester in Antwerp, a study abroad opportunity exclusively for CoB students? If so, join us for an upcoming 30-minute information session and hear from the program director and students about the experience. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Get to Know OPDE

September 17 | 1:30 - 2:30PM | Hartman Hall Employer Space


Stop by the CoB EY Professional Development & Undergraduate Suite to get to know OPDE staff and learn more about the programs, resources, and opportunities available to you. While you are here, take a break and complete a word search! To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Meet the Marketing Orgs Night

September 17 | 6:00 - 7:00PM | Hartman Hall Forum


Come out to connect with current marketing organization members, enjoy free Chick-fil-A and learn how you can get involved. REGISTER TODAY!

Econ Social

September 17 | Registration Deadline


Connect with alumni, faculty, and peers in the Department of Economics. The social will take place on Tuesday, September 22 from 6:30 - 7:30PM in the Hartman Hall Forum. Ask questions about the major, minor, courses and more. Enjoy free pizza and soft drinks! REGISTER TODAY!

Business Runs on AI. Learn How to Use it Well.

September 18 | 1:45 - 3:15PM | The Forum, Hartman Hall


In this interactive 90-minute session, led by JMU students who use AI every day, you will gain practical skills you can start using right away and learn how to describe them. You will also leave with a short hands-on project to complete on your own time. Spots are limited, REGISTER TODAY!

Entrepreneurship Minor

September 19 | Application Deadline


Unlock your potential for innovation with the Entrepreneurship Minor! This program equips you with the essential business knowledge and skills to turn your ideas into successful ventures. Open to students from any major (except management), the minor is a perfect complement to your academic journey. Don’t miss this chance to take your passion to the next level. Applications open September 8. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Career and Internship Fair

Day 1 - September 29 | 12:00 - 4:00PM | AUBC

Day 2 - September 30 | 12:00 - 4:00PM | AUBC



Registering for both days of the JMU Career and Internship Fair in Handshake is important, as the roster of employers for each day of the fair is totally different. Being registered allows employers to see your profile and resume to potentially connect even ahead of the career fair dates. REGISTER TODAY!

Mindful Messenger

Madison Inc



Are you interested in starting a business? Join Madison Inc and become part of JMU's entrepreneurial ecosystem. To learn more, CLICK HERE.

Shop the CoB Store



New semester. New merch. Check out the new official branded apparel items that will show your school spirit and good taste. In addition to Major t-shirts and branded hoodies, we're offering new items including mock-neck sweatshirts, flat-billed caps, flannel pants and more. We have you covered. ORDER HERE.

Libraries

(N)ACE Critical Thinking


Career readiness starts with learning new skills. This 1-hour LinkedIn Learning course from JMU Libraries can help you develop your Critical Thinking competency. Developing a Critical Thinking Mindset Want more recommendations? Schedule a consultation with your business librarian. To access the learning, CLICK HERE.

Research Companies Before the Career & Internship Fair


Never ask a recruiter what their company does. Research employers in advance of the Career & Internship Fair on Sept. 29-30 using business databases like Factiva and IBISWorld. To start researching, CLICK HERE.

PALs

Peer Advising Leaders

Lead. Connect. Mentor.



College is easier when you have someone in your corner. Whether you have questions about campus resources, enrollment, getting involved, applying to COB 300, or just aren't sure where to start, we're here for you. Meet one-on-one with a PAL for personalized support, practical tips, and encouragement from students who have been in your shoes.


Stop by the Advising and Support Center or schedule a PAL appointment using MyMadison Connect.

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, Professional Development and Engagement

Schedule an Appointment

Yairyn Gallardo, Operations Manager, Professional Development and Engagement

Schedule an Appointment

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