From College to Career: Inside YPIE’s New Career Connections Program

YPIE Career Connections trip to Citi HQ in NYC

Today’s college graduates are entering one of the most unpredictable job markets in decades. Many find themselves struggling to land a full-time role in their field or taking lower-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree at all. 

For first-generation students, these challenges can feel especially daunting. Many lack professional experience and networks, and can face higher rates of unemployment, underemployment, and lower starting wages compared to their peers.

To help close these gaps, YPIE launched the Career Connections Program this summer, with volunteer Career Coaches at its heart. These trained mentors work one-on-one with YPIE college juniors and seniors to build personalized job or graduate school plans, strengthen resumes and applications, prepare for interviews, and navigate an increasingly complex hiring landscape. Their guidance gives students access to professional insight, accountability, and encouragement at a pivotal moment in their college journey.

This individualized support is already making a direct impact. Laurie, one of our dedicated Career Coaches, has been working with YPIE alumna Maria since August. With Laurie’s coaching, including targeted interview prep, Maria recently became the first Career Connections student to land a job with the support of her coach, securing a role at the Office of the New York State Attorney General. The pair has already mapped out a yearlong plan as Maria prepares to apply to law school.

While one-on-one mentorship is the core of the program, Career Connections also exposes students to a broader network of professionals and real-world workplaces.

The program launched with our Summer Networking Event, bringing together over 50 students, alumni, and local professionals from companies including NewYork-Presbyterian, Con Edison, Regeneron, Cross County Center, and Valley Bank. The room buzzed with energy as students practiced their elevator pitches, asked thoughtful questions, and began imagining how their academic majors might translate into meaningful careers.

In October, YPIE brought 20 students to Citi Headquarters in New York City for an immersive career experience. The visit featured a panel discussion on Artificial Intelligence in the workplace, prompting students to consider how emerging technologies are transforming industries and reshaping the skills they’ll need to succeed.

One student reflected: “My top takeaway from this experience was understanding that AI has the potential to be an educational and empowering tool rather than simply a shortcut for avoiding work. When used thoughtfully, AI can support in developing ideas, improving processes, and gaining a deeper understanding of certain topics.”

As we continue to expand the Career Connections Program, YPIE remains deeply committed to building a strong community of volunteer Career Coaches and Graduate School Coaches. These volunteers provide practical expertise, as well as belief, consistency, and perspective to help students transform uncertainty about the future into clarity and confidence.

Together with our dedicated partners and volunteers, we’re empowering the next generation of YPIE graduates to not only earn their degrees but to step confidently into their careers. 

If you are interested in volunteering through this new program, please email Alexa Dalbis, Director of Strategic Partnerships, at adalbis@ypie.org.