Center for Career Development : Discovery Externships

Alumni Sponsor Comments

“This program was a non-financial way to contribute back to Kalamazoo and provided me with more personal satisfaction than I expected. I anticipate participating in this program in the future and believe "K" has structured this program for student success and ease of participation by employer/ alumni. ”
—Mike Nelson '89, Carolinas Healthcare Systems (Charlotte, NC)

“Perhaps the biggest surprise for me was discovering the degree to which the externships benefit more than just the students. When I talk with students on my porch about their views, their dreams and their futures, I remember that I still have my own. ”
—Jack Lundeen '69, The Law Firm of John W. Lundeen (Lake Oswego, OR)

“I meant to mention what a great time I had with my "K" student, Ally Fox, on her one-week externship at Newsday. Ally was a delight and fit in very well with everyone she met. Everyone thought she was great. A couple of people said she seemed far more mature than her years. What I saw was self-confidence, intelligence, a winning personality, an adventurous spirit and leadership ability. My husband and I also really enjoyed having her in our home. Ally sent me a note saying her week exceeded all her expectations. And I certainly would second that! I think the whole experience exceeded both my and her expectations. I think this is invaluable for me in my role as a trustee. I would urge all the trustees to get involved. ”
—Charlotte Hall '66, Newsday, Inc, A tribune publishing company (Melville, NY)

“It was wonderful turning a student on to a career she might not have explored otherwise. I will tell other alumni about the program, because I believe it's fantastic for the student AND the alumni! I really felt I was helping to carry on the "K" College tradition of experiential education. I felt I was giving something back to the College (finally!) after all these years. ”
—Mary Ellen Geist '81, KGO Newstalk AM 810/ABC Affiliate (San Francisco, CA)

“I really wanted to tell you (CCD) how happy I was with Sarah's (Mayville) stay and I am very excited to participate again next year. This is a great opportunity for "K" students to explore possible careers. I am always more than willing to help out a K student! Thanks again for giving me this wonderful opportunity! ”
—Stacy Wrenn (Glowacki) '98, Chamberlain High School (Brandon, FL)

“I think Sarah (Ball) had a thorough but brief overview into our clinical services and some of the administrative issues that arise on a day-to-day basis. She completed a 7-month analysis of chart audits, which was really helpful. My family and I found her to be a very easy houseguest. It was overall a very positive experience and I would be happy to sponsor another extern.”
—Connie Booth '76, Mountainside Hospital: Out Patient Behavioral Health (Montclair, NJ)