Oglethorpe’s sophomore class will soon be preparing for Oglethorpe Goes to Work Day, on February 6, with many career exploration opportunities. In the first year of this program, the students will be able to choose from one of more than 15 Atlanta-area work sites, offering them small-group visits that provide a close-up look at potential career paths across industries.

The day is organized by the Career Development team, Dr. Lisa Conley, director of career development, and Karlie Burrell, assistant director of career development. In conjunction with employer partners, Oglethorpe Goes to Work Day is designed to help students connect with real-world realities and needs. Every site visit will give sophomores the chance to meet with professionals, tour workplaces, and begin imagining the possibilities ahead.

“We are excited to give students real exposure to the world of work, spaces where they can hear directly from professionals about their career paths, the choices they’ve made, and what they’ve learned along the way,” said Conley. “What continues to impress me is how willing these professionals are to open up to our students. They do not hold back. Students walk away with real insight and a clearer sense of what is possible for them. These small-group site visits spark honest conversations and those ‘lightbulb’ moments that can genuinely shape their next steps.”

Sophomores will soon receive a list of participating employers and can choose the site that interests them most.

University President Dr. Kathryn McClymond notes that in-person learning enhances students’ academic and career development experiences. “The sophomore year is an important time to start connecting personal interests with career opportunities,” McClymond said. “Oglethorpe Goes to Work Day positions students to learn on-site from professionals about the full range of career paths available, and to form meaningful relationships that launch their own careers.”

Oglethorpe Goes to Work Day will advance OU’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful, professional lives. These site visits will inform the sophomore class about what Atlanta has to offer to them as they complete their studies and are ready to move ahead.