FAQs | Welcome to CSO

General & Getting Started

When should I start using the Career Services Office?

It's never too early to start! Whether you're a first-year student exploring career options or a final-year student preparing for job applications, CSO services are designed to support you at every stage of your academic and professional journey.

How do I book an appointment with a CSO advisor?

You can book an appointment through our online CSO Connect portal, call our office directly, or visit us during walk-in hours. We offer both in-person and virtual appointment options to suit your schedule.

I'm not sure where to start — what page should I explore first?

We recommend starting with our homepage to get an overview of services, then visiting the 'Talk to an Advisor' section to schedule your first consultation. Our advisors can help you create a personalized career development plan.

Are CSO services available to alumni as well?

Yes! Alumni have access to many CSO services including job boards, networking events, and career advising. Some services may have specific terms for alumni access.

Do I need to pay for any of the CSO services?

Most CSO services are free for current students and recent graduates. Some specialized workshops or assessments may have a nominal fee, which will be clearly indicated during registration.

Talk to Your Advisor

What types of questions can I ask a career advisor?

You can discuss career exploration, industry insights, resume and cover letter reviews, interview preparation, job search strategies, graduate school planning, networking advice, and any other career-related concerns.

How do I decide which advisor is best for me?

Our advisors specialize in different areas. You can view advisor profiles and specializations on our 'Talk to an Advisor' page to select someone whose expertise aligns with your needs and career interests.

Do you offer walk-in appointments?

Yes, we offer designated walk-in hours throughout the week. Check our website for current walk-in schedules, though we recommend booking in advance for guaranteed availability.

Can I book more than one session?

Absolutely! Many students benefit from multiple sessions throughout their academic journey. You can book follow-up appointments as needed to continue working on your career development goals.

What should I bring to my advising appointment?

Bring your current resume, any job descriptions you're interested in, specific questions or concerns, and an open mind. For specialized sessions, your advisor may provide additional preparation guidance.

Explore Careers

How do I know which career path is right for me?

Start with our self-discovery tools and assessments, explore our industry guides, attend information sessions, and schedule an appointment with a career advisor who can help you evaluate your interests, skills, and values.

What is the difference between self-discovery tools and industry guides?

Self-discovery tools help you understand your personality, interests, and strengths, while industry guides provide detailed information about specific career fields, including job roles, required skills, and career trajectories.

Can I suggest a new field for a Career Guide?

Yes! We welcome suggestions for new career guides. Contact our team with your request, and we'll consider developing resources for emerging or underrepresented fields.

Where can I find alumni career trajectories?

Our alumni success stories and industry guides feature career paths of LUMS graduates. You can also connect with alumni through our networking events and LinkedIn alumni network.

Build Your Profile

Where can I download the official LUMS resume template?

The official LUMS resume template is available in our Resume Writing resources section under 'Build Your Profile.' Multiple format options are provided to suit different industries and career levels.

What is the difference between a resume and a CV?

A resume is typically 1-2 pages and focuses on relevant experience for specific jobs, while a CV is longer and includes comprehensive academic and professional history. CVs are commonly used for academic positions and graduate school applications.

How long should my resume be?

For most undergraduate and early-career positions, one page is ideal. Graduate students and those with significant experience may use up to two pages. Focus on quality and relevance rather than length.

Do I always need a cover letter?

While not always required, a well-written cover letter can strengthen your application by explaining your interest and fit for the specific role. Check job postings for requirements and consider including one when it adds value.

How do I build a professional LinkedIn profile as a student?

Start with a professional photo, write a compelling headline and summary, list your education and any work experience, add relevant skills, and begin connecting with classmates, professors, and industry professionals.

Can I get my LinkedIn profile reviewed by CSO?

Yes! Many of our career advisors can review your LinkedIn profile during advising appointments. We also offer workshops specifically focused on LinkedIn optimization and professional online presence.

What job assessments should I expect when applying for internships and jobs?

Common assessments include aptitude tests, personality assessments, case studies, technical tests, and video interviews. Specific requirements vary by industry and company.

Where can I practice for aptitude tests?

We provide access to practice platforms and resources for various types of assessments. Check our Job Assessments section under 'Build Your Profile' for links to practice materials and tips.

How can I book a mock interview?

Mock interviews can be scheduled through your advisor or during our designated mock interview sessions. We offer both general and industry-specific interview practice.

How do I start networking if I don't have any professional contacts?

Begin with alumni networks, attend CSO networking events, join professional associations, participate in industry conferences, and leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field of interest.

What questions can I ask alumni during networking events?

Ask about their career journey, daily responsibilities, industry trends, advice for students, company culture, and skills that have been most valuable in their role. Focus on learning rather than immediately asking for job opportunities.

How should I respond to a job offer?

Express gratitude, ask for details in writing, request reasonable time to consider (typically 1-2 weeks), evaluate the complete package including salary, benefits, and growth opportunities, and respond professionally with your decision.

Is it okay to negotiate my offer as a fresh graduate?

Yes, respectful negotiation is often acceptable, especially if you have competing offers or unique qualifications. Research market rates, prepare your rationale, and approach negotiations professionally.

How do I professionally ask for feedback after a rejection?

Send a brief, polite email thanking them for the opportunity and asking for any feedback that could help you improve for future applications. Keep it concise and professional, understanding that not all companies provide detailed feedback.

Who should I ask for a reference?

Choose people who know your work well: professors, supervisors, mentors, or employers. Ensure they can speak positively about your skills, character, and work ethic. Always ask permission before listing someone as a reference.

How do I request a recommendation letter?

Ask in person or via email at least 3-4 weeks in advance. Provide your resume, the opportunity description, and any specific points you'd like them to address. Follow up politely and send thank-you notes.

Search & Apply

What's the best way to find internships through CSO?

Use our CSO Connect job portal, attend career fairs and networking events, explore our employer partnerships, and work with advisors to identify opportunities that match your interests and qualifications.

Can I access job postings after graduation?

Alumni maintain access to our job portal and many CSO resources. Check with our team about specific access terms and any services designed specifically for recent graduates.

How do I follow up on an application?

Wait 1-2 weeks after applying, then send a brief, professional follow-up email reiterating your interest. If you have a contact at the company, you can also reach out to them for updates.

Further Study

How do I know if graduate school is right for me?

Consider your career goals, the necessity of advanced degrees in your field, financial implications, and your readiness for further academic work. Schedule an appointment with our graduate school advisor to explore your options.

When should I start preparing my grad school application?

Ideally, begin planning 12-18 months before your intended start date. This allows time for standardized test preparation, research, requesting recommendations, and crafting strong application materials.

What is an SOP and how is it different from a personal statement?

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) focuses on your academic and research interests, while a personal statement is broader and may include personal experiences that shaped your goals. Requirements vary by program.

Which standardized test should I take (GRE, GMAT, IELTS, etc.)?

This depends on your target programs and location. GRE is common for graduate programs, GMAT for business school, and IELTS/TOEFL for international students. Check specific program requirements.

Can CSO review my grad school essays?

Yes! Our advisors can help with personal statements, SOPs, and other application essays. Schedule an appointment specifically for graduate school application support.

Events & Resources

How do I register for an upcoming workshop or event?

Visit our Events Calendar to view upcoming events and registration links. Most events require advance registration through our online system. Popular events may fill up quickly, so register early.

Can I access recordings if I miss a session?

Some workshops and webinars are recorded and made available to registered participants. Check event descriptions for recording availability, or contact us if you missed an important session.

How do I join CSO WhatsApp / communication groups?

Information about joining our communication groups is shared during orientation, workshops, and on our website. These groups provide updates about opportunities, events, and important announcements.

For Employers

How can employers recruit from LUMS?

Visit our Employers section to learn about recruitment opportunities, partnership programs, and how to post positions. We offer various engagement options from job postings to campus recruitment drives.

What types of partnership opportunities are available?

We offer multiple partnership levels including job posting access, career fair participation, on-campus presentations, project collaborations, and customized recruitment programs. Contact our employer relations team for details.

Who can I contact to host a recruitment drive?

Reach out to our Employer Relations team through the contact information in the Employers section. We'll work with you to plan and execute successful on-campus recruitment activities.

For Alumni

What services are available to alumni?

Alumni can access our job portal, attend networking events, receive career advising, participate in mentorship programs, and access many online resources. Some services may have different terms for alumni.

Can alumni access career advising?

Yes, alumni can schedule career advising appointments. We offer support for career transitions, job searches, and professional development for LUMS graduates at all career stages.

How can I become a mentor for current students?

We welcome alumni who want to give back! Contact our Alumni Relations team to learn about mentorship opportunities, speaking engagements, and other ways to support current students.