HCTC Student Success Coach shares firsthand experience with Handshake

For Austyn Caudill, one of Hazard Community & Technical College's (HCTC's) student success coaches, helping students stay on track is more than a job. As a recent graduate herself, Caudill remembers the uncertainty of entering the workforce.

"When I graduated from college in 2020, I was very overwhelmed about how I was going to find a job," she said. "I sought out assistance in career planning at my graduating college, and many programs were advertising and suggesting Handshake to help find a job after graduation."

Caudill followed that advice, creating a profile on the career platform that connects students with employers. Before long, she landed her first position: teaching in a local school district. That opportunity eventually led her to her current role in higher education.

HCTC's Austyn Caudill used Handshake, a career platform, to find her first job after graduating from college.

Now, she encourages HCTC students to make the most of the same platform that jump-started her career.

"It is important to really put time and effort into finding your first job once you complete your program of study and receive your credentials," Caudill said. "Once you are ready to dive into your career field, it is important to do your due diligence to ensure you end up in an organization that is a good fit for you!"

According to Caudill, Handshake makes the search easier and more intentional. 

"Handshake is a great way to connect students with career opportunities both locally and outside of their communities," she explained. "You give your major, career interests, and how far you are willing to travel for work. Then, Handshake searches for opportunities that match your profile and sends you notifications."

Caudill knows firsthand how powerful those connections can be.

"Handshake ended up connecting me to a virtual job fair where I met with some of the administration from a local school district," she recalled. "I never thought I would connect with them on there, but I did. My first job after I earned my college credentials came from Handshake. They streamlined the process, did the searching for me, and helped me connect with my first job after college."

HCTC students are encouraged to use Handshake to support their career development. To learn more about this resource, visit the Kentucky Community & Technical College System Handshake webpage.