Host Megan Riksen sits down with Katie Born, Senior Director of Human Resources at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and Steve Smith, Regional Talent Acquisition Manager at University of Michigan Health-West, to discuss career opportunities students may not expect at their organizations through a variety of career paths beyond traditional roles, as well as how to stand out to employers....

Do you love working with numbers? In this episode, hosts Megan and Grace sit down with Matt Boelkins, GVSU Math Professor and Department Chair, to talk about previous students' experiences and all the places their math degrees took them, from Disney to Silicon Valley. Alongside Matt, Parker Kuchulan, a 2024 GVSU graduate and Research and Technology Analyst with Betting Hero, talks about his Sta...

Welcome to Season 9 of the Work Like a Laker podcast! To kick off the new season, Grace, Dani, and Megan sit down to share their tips and tricks for getting organized in your career search, school work, and beyond. The episode dives into how to manage your time, stay on top of tasks, reduce stress, and make progress toward your goals. Plus, the hosts put their organizational know-how to the tes...

Work is hard, but it shouldn’t be completely draining. The right career will feel energizing and exciting, because the right career will align with your core values — but what are your core values, and how do you know if a job aligns with them? In this episode of Work Like a Laker, hosts Megan Riksen and Dani Lauer dive into the process of identifying your values with special guest Renata Ellis...

Most people associate having a career with sitting at a desk from nine to five, but if that doesn’t sound appealing, a career working outside might be more your style. In this episode of Work Like a Laker, hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin dive into the realities of going into an outdoor career. From the benefits working outdoors can offer to the specific job titles and industries you should...

So you have— or are about to have— a bachelor’s degree in psychology. What now? Maybe you’ve heard that you need a graduate degree to “do anything,” or that the only possible careers for your degree are therapists and counselors. If those aren’t your plans, don’t worry, because this episode of Work Like a Laker is here to debunk all of those rumors. From the skills you’ve gained to the jobs yo...

It’s time for another Intern Takeover, hosted once again by the GVSU Career Center interns for the 2025-26 year: Shea Hannigan, Sofia Pratt, Denys Zamaraiev, Brody Zondervan, and Callie Zwart! In this special episode of Work Like a Laker, the interns take a closer look at the realities of jobs that are popular on social media. While it may seem like the perfect job in a thirty-second clip onli...

Welcome to the 100th episode of the Work Like a Laker podcast! To celebrate this occasion, we’ve put together a very special episode for you that takes place in a very special location. That’s right— for the first time ever, this podcast is going on the road! Over the summer, hosts Megan Riksen, Grace Joaquin, and Dani Lauer travelled up north to beautiful Traverse City. With its stunning natu...

Passions change. Interests shift. Maybe you were set on a career and now you’re realizing that’s not what you want to do. Maybe you’re interested in a field that seems completely different from your current major. Maybe you’re feeling burned out. Change can be scary, but it can also be worth it. In today’s episode of Work Like a Laker, hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin are joined by Dave Ben...

To any student interested in applying (or reapplying) to secondary admission programs here at GVSU, we know that the process for being accepted is an intimidating one. How important is a high GPA? How can a candidate stand out in highly competitive programs? What will the interview look like, and how can you prepare? Today, host Megan Riksen is joined by special guests Mike Saldana, Director of...

Did you know that people with a professional mentor are promoted five times faster than people without one? It’s not surprising when you consider all the fantastic benefits of having a mentor, from an expanded professional network to personalized guidance on your career goals. But what is a mentor, and how do you get one? In today’s episode of Work Like a Laker, all of your questions will be an...

Today’s episode of Work like a Laker is an extra-special episode, because it has some extra-special hosts. It’s time for the Intern Takeover episode, hosted by the GVSU Career Center interns for the 2025-26 year: Shea Hannigan, Sofia Pratt, Denys Zamaraiev, Brody Zondervan, and Callie Zwart! In this episode, the interns lead the discussion on professionalism in the workplace. Entering a profes...

How do you succeed in graduate school? Whether you’re currently a graduate student or you’re considering a graduate program for the future, you’ve probably had this question bouncing around in your head. Luckily, today’s episode of Work Like A Laker is here to help. Host Megan Riksen is joined by Erica Hamilton, Vice Provost for Distributed Learning and Dean of The Graduate School at GVSU, and ...

On today’s episode of Work Like a Laker, hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin take a closer look at how neurodivergence factors into the workforce. Whether you’re a neurodivergent individual preparing to enter the workforce or you’re an employer wanting to create a more inclusive environment, this episode will give you some great information— along with some helpful tips and resources. Later, D...

Entering the workforce can feel terrifying, especially when you have no idea what employers are looking for. What will make you stand out in a competitive job market? What do employers want to see on resumes? What are you supposed to do in the interview? In today’s episode of Work Like A Laker, host Megan Riksen is joined by special guests Lisa Zimmerman, Human Resource Manager at John Ball Zoo...

When it comes to the healthcare field, gaining experience is as necessary as it is daunting. Today, host Megan Riksen is joined by Meghan Veltri and Stephanie Dombrowski-Jensen, Assistant Directors and Career Advisors for the Healthcare Career Community– and they know that you have questions. How do you gain experience? Where do you gain experience? What do you do if an experience makes you rec...

Your future career is filled with endless possibilities… and also endless unknowns. On today’s episode, hosts Megan Riksen and Grace Joaquin tackle those unknowns with the career exploration tools O*NET and CareerOneStop– free websites that offer career assessments, salary information, job outlook data, and so much more. Whether you want to learn more about your dream career or are exploring yo...

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:...