Recognized Student Organizations play vital role in building career confidence

November is National Career Development Month and an opportunity for adult learners and working adults to identify opportunities for career development. Earlier in 2021, the University of Phoenix Career Institute^TM conducted the Career Optimism Index^TM study which revealed an overall optimism by American workers for the future of their careers, as well as identifying barriers limiting their progress. One barrier identified was that of establishing a network of support and mentorship. Mentorship and advocacy are critical to career success and for many, social capital – or a built-in network of connections – does not exist.

Universities can provide effective space for building social capital through network creation, inclusive practices, and focus on career preparation. The University of Phoenix is dedicated to life-long and inclusive career building, as evidenced by its Career Services for Life® commitment. One of the ways that the University helps its students to build social capital, career optimism, and confidence is through co-curricular learning opportunities in the form of Recognized Student Organizations (RSO). Under the general guidance of a volunteer Faculty Advisor or University Liaison, RSOs are wholly initiated, installed and chartered, led, and maintained by students enrolled at University of Phoenix.

“RSOs help promote student leadership development, community engagement and service, professional development, financial literacy and scholarship and interpersonal skill development through membership engagement,” states Jelisa Dallas, MS Ed., program manager for RSOs in the Office of Educational Equity. “The RSO program seeks to provide a sense of belonging and support for University of Phoenix students from all walks of life as they balance academic, professional, familial, and personal responsibilities.”

RSOs at University of Phoenix are a co-curricular bridge between the classroom and careers, offering the opportunity to connect knowledge and skill-building with social capital and networking. University students have 14 different RSO offerings in which to become members and network, build community, and practice skill-building to help prepare them for career development and enhancement. Over 48,000 University of Phoenix students are members of RSOs, including those such as National Society for Leadership and Success, Golden Key International Honor Society, Order of the Sword and Shield National Honor Society, Upsilon Phi Delta (Health Professions) Honor Society, and Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society in Business.

During National Career Development Month, students are urged to take advantage of the Career Services for Life® offered by the University of Phoenix, including 1-on-1 coaching, resume reviews, and interview prep, and to consider RSOs an important option for career development. University students can visit the University of Phoenix RSO page and review program offerings with honor, academic, and professional societies to determine which organization is the right fit. Those who have determined an interest can send an email to students.organizations@phoenix.edu to identify next steps for eligibility and participation.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is continually innovating to help working adults enhance their careers in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, and Career Services for Life® help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

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One of the ways that @UOPX builds social capital, career optimism, and confidence is through co-curricular learning opportunities in the form of Recognized Student Organizations (RSO).