College to Career Program targets first-generation students who are interested in preparing for internships, careers, or graduate school.

 

“Riordan College-to-Career is much more than simply a formal, one-week program. It has truly proven to me that anything is possible and that there are so many diverse career fields I can pursue. The Riordan Programs provided a family that has helped me to begin unlocking my true potential.”

John Mendoza
College-to-Career 2015
University of Southern California (B.A. ’16)

About the College to Career Program

 

Program workshops are designed to prepare you for your transition from college to a highly rewarding job.

Curriculum

  • Week-long sessions and workshops from June 19-23, 2023
  • Self-assessment exercises
  • Discussions and case studies led by top UCLA Anderson faculty and staff
  • Guest lectures by top industry leaders
  • Graduate School Admissions preparation
  • Individualized Career Action Plan
  • Mentorship

Topics

  • Networking techniques
  • The art of public speaking
  • Finding a job in today’s landscape
  • The successful internship
  • Managing your interests in a professional setting

Following the intensive one-week session, you will be paired with a mentor who will continue to support your professional development and career goals. The selected curriculum will prepare you for a summer internship/full-time job, which is highly encouraged for participants to secure by the start of the program. However, having a summer internship or a full-time position is not required to enroll in the program.

Why Apply?

 

Are you the first in your family to go to college? Do you need support with professional development? Are you interested in securing an internship? Every year, we elevate our students to the places they feel they are meant to be. Our founders envisioned this program to be nothing short of transformational.

Applying to the College to Career Program

 

The 2023 College to Career Application is now live! The 2023 College to Career program will be VIRTUAL. The Riordan College to Career Program uses an online application process. Please submit all required information prior to the application deadline.

Deadline: 

  • Priority Application Deadline is March 8th @ 11:59pm
  • Secondary Application Deadline is April 7th @ 11:59pm
  • Extended Deadline is May 12th @ 11:59pm

Program Dates: June 19-23, 2023

If you would like to apply to 2023 College to Career Program, please sign up using the link below.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Rising sophomore, junior, or senior standing at four-year university by Fall 2023
  • First-generation college student
  • Must have demonstrated leadership skills and community service involvement
  • Clear ability and interest in advancing own academic and career journeys
  • All majors are encouraged to apply!

Application Requirements

Prior experience in or knowledge of business is not required.

Online Application

Complete the online application. Upon completion, print the Application Summary Sheet and keep for your records. 

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Transcript(s)

Upload a copy of your unofficial transcript(s) to the online application. Your application is considered incomplete without the transcript(s).

Resume

Upload a copy of your current résumé to the online application.

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Reference

Submit contact information of one teacher, counselor or community reference. Notify your listed reference that you have applied, as we may contact him or her directly.

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Personal Statements

Two personal statements are required of all applicants.

Program Details

 
Sample Schedule
A Typical Day in the Program
8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Registration
8:30 – 9:00 a.m. Announcements
9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Entrepreneurship Workshop
10:00 – 10:15 a.m. Break
10:15 – 11:15 a.m. The Art of Marketing
11:15 – 12:15 p.m. Lunch
12:15 – 2:30 p.m. Negotiation Case Study
2:30 – 2:45 p.m. Break
2:45 – 4:00 p.m. Steps to Becoming an Attractive Recruit
4:00 – 4:15 p.m. Closing
Cost

Tuition is free and there is no application fee. Classroom supplies, materials and food are provided for all session participants.

Responsibilities

Admitted College-to-Career Program participants are required to attend all sessions. Participants are expected to exhibit a professional demeanor and actively participate in class discussions and all other program activities. Business professional attire is required at all Riordan Programs functions.

Housing and Transportation

The Riordan Programs does not provide housing or cover transportation costs at this time. We encourage participants who need housing to connect with other C2C participants who live in Los Angeles and are willing to host participants. Alternatively, past participants have booked Airbnb rentals/hotels as a group or have stayed in Los Angeles with organizations they are members of. Daily parking will be provided free of charge to all participants.

Questions?