Career Coaching Program

Since 2001, hundreds of students have participated in the Career Coaching Program. Students are matched with successful alumni and friends of the University who share the secrets of their success and provide professional development coaching. Past participants have started and built careers at places like EY, Meta, Google, Pinterest, Nike, Sony Music, NBCUniversal, and many more!

Students receive extensive materials covering topics such as resumes and cover letters, internship and job search, interview preparation, professional communication, networking, diversity and inclusion, and leadership skills. Group discussions, team conversations, and one-on-one coaching empower students to take ownership of their career aspirations and grow in confidence that yields success.

Testimonials

Omar M.'s headshot

Career Coaching has set me up for success in my future because it has presented me with guidance from accomplished professionals who have made an investment in my future.

Omar M.

Fall 2018

Structure and Time Commitment

Kick-Off Weekend

TBA - Friday & Saturday in September

You will be introduced to your Career Coach, the program, and the other student participants. Special attention will be spent on exploring and setting your personal and professional goals. You will also enjoy an Etiquette Lunch and learn about the MBTI Career Assessment. All meals will be provided. Attendance is mandatory.

General Sessions

Held approximately every 2-3 weeks on Tuesday evenings, 7 -9 pm, from mid-September through mid-November (ends before Thanksgiving).

All coaches and all student participants join together to address key topics in your career development, such as Interviewing, Personal Branding, Professional Communication, and Leadership. Here, you will have the opportunity to get to know all the Career Coaches. Snacks will be provided. Full attendance is mandatory.

Final Banquet

Date TBA

Coaches, student participants, and program alumni enjoy a formal evening of dinner and programming. Students & coaches share their experiences and students receive their program completion certificates. Attendance is mandatory.

Student-Coach Outside Time

Between each General Session, there is an additional required contact between students and their coach. To best accommodate your schedule, these interactions can be through email, telephone contact, or face-to-face interaction and are arranged independently between the participant and their coach. This may take place as a tour of your coach's workplace, dinner at their home, coffee at Starbucks, or over lunch!

Application Process

Students must complete the application on Handshake and have (2) Pepperdine faculty or staff members complete a recommendation on your behalf. Review all instructions on Handshake before submitting the application. The program considers students of all majors and career ambition. Open to all rising juniors and seniors.

Fall 2025 Application Deadline Extended: May 9, 2025

Fall 2025 Application

Recommendation Form