When Autumn Barrows joined Pitt’s Career Prep Academy, she was looking for something more than just another class. A sophomore majoring in English Writing and Classics, Autumn came to Pitt from a small rural community where, as she puts it, “…I had little access to resources to prepare me for the professional world.” As a first-generation college student, she wanted to build the same foundation and professional knowledge that seemed to come naturally to some of her peers. That’s where the Career Prep Academy came in!
“I wanted to be on the same level as my peers, who had parents/mentors to teach them all the things I had missed out on,” she said. “The Career Prep Academy really opened my eyes and helped me to see that I can truly choose any career path I desire.”
One of Autumn’s most memorable lessons came from her instructor, Dr. Mary Ramsey, who helped her transform her first resume. “I’ll never forget Dr. Ramsey ripping my first draft apart in purple pen. The most helpful tip she gave me was to balance any white space, but make sure my resume wasn’t over a page long; resumes should be adjusted to each position you apply for. I can’t imagine using that first draft for anything now!”
That feedback and encouragement paid off when it came time to apply for internships. When Career Prep Academy students were invited to apply for a position with Carnegie Museums, Autumn applied “on a whim.” A few weeks later, she was jumping up and down in her room after learning she’d been offered the position at Carnegie Magazine, where she’s now been an Editorial Intern for nearly a year.
Autumn says that in addition to skill building, the Career Prep Academy helped her overcome imposter syndrome. She said, “Imposter syndrome is insanely common for first-generation college students. With the lessons and resources from the Career Prep Academy, I was able to finally quell the fear that I was less-than because of my lack of experience/status. I feel like I am “back on track” with my classmates and have been given a fighting chance.”
Autumn has also built lasting relationships through the program, especially with Dr. Ramsey, whom she calls a mentor and role model. “She was also a first-generation college student,” Autumn said. “She is so knowledgeable about all things professional and career-based. If I have any questions or concerns or advice, I know I can always reach out to Mary.
Now, as she considers future paths in journalism or law, Autumn says the Career Prep Academy gave her the foundation to move forward with confidence. “The Career Prep Academy opened my eyes,” she said. “I was taught to believe in myself and to always ask — why not? I feel prepared to pursue opportunities that once felt impossible.”
Her advice to other Pitt students is clear. Take the leap. Autumn said, “The Career Prep Academy will help you transition from a student mindset to a pre-professional one,” she said. “It can provide the foundational skills necessary to achieve success later on. I cannot recommend it enough.”
Looking back, Autumn can see how much she’s grown. “When I began college, I was always in awe. I didn’t think I was part of the community, just a spectator happy to be there. I was moon-eyed. I still am, but now I know I am able to contribute to this community; I’m at home here.”