While we love to give our best advice on how to successfully earn the position of your dreams, there’s a stage of the job search process that is rarely discussed but just as important to address: recovering from job rejection. During this episode of the Work Like a Laker Podcast, hosts Megan Riksen and Dani Lauer will take you through their top five tips on how to bounce back from rejection as ...

As busy college students with an academic workload and little time to spare, it can be difficult to figure out how to juggle school and career planning all at once - but what if you also add athletics into the mix? Now THAT’s a whole new ball game. On today’s Work Like a Laker Podcast episode, Megan Riksen, Grace Joaquin, and GVSU softball alum Hannah Beatus are hitting all of the bases on mak...

In 2025, it’s safe to say most of us use artificial intelligence everyday: to get directions in traffic, to find new streaming recommendations, to unlock our phones… the list could go on and on. But how can we use this tool as job seekers? On today’s Work Like a Laker Podcast episode, Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin outline how you can use AI intentionally, responsibly, and successfully to suppo...

It’s a VERY common misconception that your career path has to align with your major - while this may be the case for some fields, like nursing or engineering, a majority of post-graduate opportunities are available to job seekers with various degrees. Still, how do you know which path to choose? How do you know which jobs you qualify for? What if you want to explore different options or hone a ...

This special-edition episode of the Work Like a Laker podcast is hosted by the “Sensational Six” members of the 2024-25 GVSU Career Center Intern Cohort: Sheridan Maske, Katie Chitwood, Le Nguyen, Gracie Roginski, Shelby Huerta, and Lauryn Babb. This takeover episode is all about the GVSU Career & Internship Fair! For those who haven’t attended one of these amazing events in the past, the Care...

If you’re applying to a new job or graduate school program, it’s a safe bet that “leadership skills” will appear high on the list of applicant qualifications. But we have to ask: what is a leader, and what skills define one? Why is it one of the most-asked-for skillsets from supervisors? And perhaps the most burning question: what does a candidate include on a resume to show they’re a leader? I...

Join co-hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin as they sit down with Caitlin Horrocks, author of one of Wall Street Journal’s Top Ten Books of 2019 and member of the GVSU Writing Department, to talk about all things books! From discussing her writing process to giving listeners advice on breaking into the publishing industry, Caitlin unshelves all the secrets to a successful writing career. This ...

On today’s Work Like a Laker episode, our hosts Megan Riksen and Dani Lauer get the chance to interview one of the 1300+ adult learners that are on our GV campus; and she just so happens to be one of our awesome Career Center interns, Shelby Huerta! Listen now to get an introduction to the students who bring diverse perspectives and experience to the classroom, hear firsthand about Shelby’s exp...

This November, the Career Center held our ever-popular annual Etiquette Dinner to teach students the best practices for fine dining in professional settings. From learning which fork to use to how to properly butter bread, 150 GVSU students got the opportunity to put these skills into practice. If you weren’t part of the fun this time around, don’t worry! The Work Like a Laker podcast team has...

If you’ve ever wondered what working in a lab actually entails, you’re not alone! From medical to environmental, there are many kinds of laboratories that offer diverse opportunities for students. Host Megan Riksen and special guests Dana Vaughan, Meagan Eggebeen, and Sara Brown break down how different labs are run, what day-to-day work looks like, and what you can do now to prepare for your f...

The problem: Building your resume with professional experiences is key to making your application stand out, but you don’t have the time to fit extra activities into your already jam-packed schedule. The solution: Micro-internships! Whether you’re limited on time or simply want to test out a potential career path, these short-term opportunities are the perfect way to gain experience without co...

Join Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin as they dive into the minds of GVSU employer partners. From resume tips to interview attire and everything in between, this episode reveals the secrets to making a lasting impression. Discover what employers value and the differences there might be among the seven career communities. Read the full transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/work-like-a-la...

Have you ever felt exhausted from everything that’s piling up on your to-do list? Have you started to become more negative about your work, or maybe even felt like you just can’t get anything done? These are all signs of professional burnout, which can be really overwhelming and hard to overcome on your own. On today’s bonus episode of Work Like a Laker, hosts Megan Riksen and Dani Lauer are jo...

Want expert application advice from one of Michigan’s biggest employers? Well, sign us up! On today’s episode of Work Like a Laker, Megan Riksen sits down with Cindy Whittum, the Recruitment and Internship Specialist with the State of Michigan, Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, to discuss how to best navigate the job-search process when applying with the state and stand out fro...

Looking for a job that interests you, will help you gain professional experience, AND works around your class schedule? Here’s a hint: you don’t need to look far. GVSU offers countless student employment positions that range from creating university-wide marketing content to researching with your favorite professors.  And the best part? They’re all already where you live and learn! Listen to Me...

Have you ever felt like you don’t deserve the opportunities you’ve gotten? Do you believe you haven’t really achieved anything? Do you think you do everything wrong in the workplace? These feelings often stem from imposter syndrome. From academics to relationships to the workplace, imposter syndrome can hit hard in any environment. Tune in to this Work Like A Laker episode with Megan Riksen and...

Are you an international student? Are you friends with an international student? Do you want to understand how you can better support international students? Listen to this Work Like A Laker episode hosted by Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick as they interview Abraham Eapen, Coordinator of Group Services in the GVSU University Counseling Center, and discuss career-related topics for international ...

Are cover letters really that important? Well…the answer is YES! In some cases, cover letters influence the decision of the employer more than a resume does. Even if a cover letter isn’t required, it is recommended to turn one in. Listen to this episode as Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin discuss tips for the formatting, consistency, and content of your cover letter. Resources: CareerLab (https...

Join Megan Riksen and guest co-host Dani Lauer as they dive into the differences between career advising and career coaching, tailored for Grand Valley State University's alumni community. Career advisors Lisa Knapp and Lori Staggs illuminate the differences, providing insights on how alumni can leverage these resources effectively. Discover whether career advising or career coaching is the rig...

Are you interested in written communication, digital and visual communication, broadcasting and journalism, and performing arts? Listen to Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin as they discuss the opportunities available for those in the Communications and the Arts career community.  Get some top-tier advice from special guest Lisa Knapp, Associate Director and career advisor for the Communications an...

Are you considering moving out of Michigan following graduation? Listen to Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin in this Work Like a Laker episode as they discuss the many ways to find opportunities outside the state. Career Connectors, Hannah and Elizabeth, are special guests on this episode who will share their perspectives on finding out-of-state work! Read the full transcript here. (https://www....

Did you know 77% of employers say seeing misspelled words and improper grammar on a resume is an INSTANT deal breaker? In this episode of Work Like a Laker, listen as Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin discuss everything that should and shouldn’t be included in a resume. Resources: ResumeAI (https://gvsu.biginterview.com/saml/acs) Read the full transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/wor...

Internships can be scary and intimidating. That’s why we’ve gathered our very own Career Center Interns –also known as “Intern Row”– to give you all the details and information about the lesser-known sides of doing an internship. Hear from Tina Milosavljevic, Anna Buckman, Emily Linck, Austin Nielsen, and Parker Kuchulan as they recount their experiences working an internship. Resources: Hand...

Are you interested in getting high quality experience through Disney’s programs for college students? Listen to this Work Like A Laker podcast episode with Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin as they talk in depth about details and logistics of working for Disney. And, get the inside scoop from special guests Cindy Brown and Audrey Hoenicke as they share their personal experiences. Resources: Disn...

Is your resume feeling a little bare? In this episode of Work Like A Laker, listen to Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick discuss some ways to fill up that space. Professional associations, conferences, research, student organizations, certifications, and volunteering are examples of non-traditional experiences you can list on your resume. Hear special guest Louis Cousino discuss his research experi...

Want a job like someone on Criminal Mind, CSI, or S.W.A.T.? If you’re curious about what it takes to secure an “as seen on tv” job, then listen to Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin discuss the realistic side of these trendy careers. Hear from crime scene technician and GV alumni, Mallory Kaysserian, as she goes in-depth about her experiences in the field. Read the full transcript here. (https://...

Are you unsure exactly what you want to do after graduation? Gap years can help! Taking a break from one opportunity and trying something new opens the door for plenty of experiences, understanding, and realization for your future. In this episode of Work Like a Laker, listen to Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick discuss the benefits of taking a gap year with special guests Dani Lauer and Jaclyn Er...

To most people, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about research is a scientist in a lab coat using a pipette. However, pursuing research during your undergraduate career can lead to so much more down the line. In this episode, Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick interview Dr. Susan Mendoza about the benefits, myths, and options of engaging in research and exploring questions. Later i...

Preparing for a career fair can be daunting and overwhelming. Take a step back and listen to Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick as they discuss tips and tricks for getting yourself in order before a career fair! Read the full transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/work-like-a-laker-podcast-transcript-season-6-452.htm) Resources: Career and Internship Fair Event  (https://gvsu.joinhandsha...

Not sure if you should make a profile on LinkedIn or Handshake? Spoiler…the answer is both! In this episode of Work Like a Laker, Grace Joaquin and Megan Riksen discuss the many benefits of using these job-searching and network-building platforms. Learn about all the features in LinkedIn and Handshake that can help you develop your future career today! Read the full transcript here. (https://...

How do I find an internship? Can I take a gap year? When should I apply for jobs? Do I need a cover letter? Join Megan Riksen, Brian Bossick, and Grace Joaquin as they answer the burning questions that students like YOU most frequently ask our career advisors! Resources: Internship Advisor Contact List (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/contacts-for-internships-co-ops-and-projects-52.htm) WLAL S2E4...

Should I turn my hobby into a career? Hosts Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick break down how to commodify your passions and turn them into a valuable career. If you are considering starting your own business, this episode covers key questions that you should reflect on to identify if it will align with your life goals. Resources: S2EP5 - Designing Your Life - Advisor Chat (https://audioboom.com/p...

When should I disclose my disability to a potential employer? Hosts Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick will cover when to disclose, how to identify if an employer is inclusive, accommodations, and more.  They are joined by a guest, Jason Osborne, GVSU Senior Disability Advisor. Listen in to protect yourself from workplace disability discrimination. Resources: Job Accommodation Expert (JAN) (https:...

In this episode, hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin are joined by guests Victor Joaquin and Maddie Sutton to help clear up the mystery of negotiating a job offer. After receiving your written offer, think it over, research salary ranges, and possibly ask your recruiter, “Is there room to negotiate?” If you bring more to the table than an employer's expectations, negotiation could land you a h...

In this episode, Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick interview Nick Ekstrom, former Benefits Manager at GVSU.  Nick brings his expertise to the table to share about employment benefits that might be offered to an employee. Listen in to learn about the ins and outs of health insurance and retirement benefits. Read the full transcript. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/podcast-transcription-work-like-a-l...

Is remote work for you? Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick break down all things remote work including which industries have shifted, how to find remote work, and questions to ask yourself to determine if remote work is a good fit for you. While some employees desire the flexibility that working from home offers, others need the energy of an office environment. Resources: GVSU Career Center Career...

Your part-time job is valuable! In this episode, hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin will teach you how to tailor your experience to get you one step closer to a full-time job. Career Center Graduate Student, Katie Cwiakala joins to play the informational game, “Transfer That Skill!” Additional Resources: NACE Study  (https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/trends-and-predictions/percentage-of-emp...

Is the Secret Service portrayed accurately in Hollywood? In this WLAL episode, Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin interview GVSU Alum Ben Witt, a former Secret Service Agent. You'll also learn how to alter your resume and apply for government jobs. Resources: Federal Resume Sample (https://www.gvsu.edu/cms4/asset/A5A7D4FD-936E-4562-8EC79EFCECAC7F3B/federal_resume_sample.pdf) Human & Public Servic...

Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick are joined by former GVSU Career Connector, MacKenzie Payton to discuss the importance of informational interviewing. An informational interview is a conversation with an industry professional to learn about their career experience to further your own career exploration. Mackenzie shares insight on how to initiate conversations with professionals and remain connec...

Join Megan Riksen & Grace Joaquin as they discuss how to gather information about a workplace culture before stepping foot into the organization. In this episode, you will hear from Auto-Owners Insurance and Fifth Wheel Freight (FWF) to get to know how they define workplace culture. Learn interview questions to ask employers in order to gain a better understanding of their environment. Notes: ...

In this episode, hosts Megan Riksen & Grace Joaquin cover different interview formats including phone, traditional one-on-ones, second round, virtual, panel or team, group, off-site, multiple mini (MMI), and career fair. To guide you through these interviews, they also discuss types of questions that you could be asked. Stay tuned to the end for a fun surprise! Indeed’s article, “20 Common Int...

Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick discuss the two main healthcare pathways: clinical and nonclinical. They interview GVSU alumnus, Rob Ayotte, who shares his experience at Spectrum Health (now Corewell Health) and how he navigated the nonclinical field. From this episode, you can find out if a clinical or nonclinical pathway is a good fit for you! Resources: ExploreHealthCareers.org (https://exp...

Conquer your Career Fair nerves with Megan Riksen, Grace Joaquin, and Cindy Brown as they cover tips on starting conversations with employers. Learn more about ways you can stand out to an employer and show off your skills. #careerfair #professionaletiquette #whattowear #followup #interviewing #career #worklikealaker #gvcareers Read the full transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/podc...

Wondering what to wear to work? Megan Riksen and Grace Pushman cover the Do’s and Don’ts of workplace dress. In this episode, you’ll learn how you can represent yourself and your employer in both a comfortable and work appropriate manner. #businesscasual #whattowear #professional #dresscode #career #worklikealaker #gvcareers #gvsu Read the transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/podcas...

In this BONUS episode of the podcast, Megan Riksen and Grace Pushman give an introduction to career communities at GVSU.  They cover what career communities are, how to get involved, and why they are beneficial to all students at GVSU. Career Community Homepage (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/career-communities-308.htm) Sign up for a Career Community (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/cms-form-edit.h...

Join Megan Riksen and Grace Pushman as they discuss how to land an internship and how internships are beneficial to navigating career planning. They interview GVSU alumna, Caylie Peet, who shares her experience completing seven internships and gives students advice on what to take away from these opportunities. Tune in for some trivia and learn how valuable internships can be. #gvcareers #work...

Special guest Nick Claus joins Megan Riksen and Grace Pushman as they discuss what to expect and what to learn from your first post-graduate job. They each will cover their post-graduate career journeys and what valuable skills they learned at some of their not-so-perfect jobs. Read the full transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/podcast-transcription-work-like-a-laker-season-4-383.ht...

Join Brian Bossick and Megan Riksen as they discuss how failure can be turned into learning and career opportunities. Plus, listen to special guest and Career Center Director Troy Farley share a few stories about his own professional failures and how he bounced back from them. Read the transcript here. (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/work-like-a-laker-podcast-transcript-season-4-382.htm) #failu...

Brian Bossick and Megan Riksen discuss how to intervene in situations involving microaggressions or other harmful workplace behaviors. Learn about “The Five D’s” and how to Distract, Delegate, Document, Delay, and be Direct in difficult situations. Resources: I Holla Back (now named Right to Be) Bystander Training (https://righttobe.org/our-training/) #microaggressions #intervention #workplac...

Are you unsure of what degree path you want to take, but know you just want to help people no matter what? Join Megan Riksen and Brian Bossick as they discuss the myriad ways you can help people in education, healthcare, business, and more. Resources: Pathway U (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/pathwayu-70.htm) Career Communities (https://www.gvsu.edu/careers/career-communities-308.htm) Read the ...