Calling all undergrads and recent grads: kickstart your career with Kohl’s! Finding the right path after college can be overwhelming, but Kohl’s offers internship and trainee programs that prioritize your growth and leadership development. 

Kohl’s has developed leadership programs that are a launchpad for a meaningful career, allowing self-motivated and inspired individuals to grow, both professionally and personally. Ideal for college students and recent graduates, the Kohl’s Store Leadership Internship and Store Leadership Trainee Program are both designed to give young professionals the tools needed to grow into great leaders. 

For current college students, the Kohl’s Store Leadership Internship is an interactive, 8-week paid structured training program created with development in mind. Interns are given a peek behind the scenes at running a $10 million to $20 million dollar Kohl’s store. More than just hands-on experience, interns are also invited to exclusive networking events and curate their own individual development plans with their mentors. The Store Leadership Trainee Program is designed for leaders ready to jump-start their careers. Over the 12-week paid program, Store Leadership Trainees (or SLTs/Leaders in Training) develop the skills and experience needed to become a Merchandising Manager at Kohl’s. With direct experience in store-merchandising, sales, and human resources, it is a program built with development in mind. 

WayUp was able to speak with some impressive individuals who have completed the Kohl’s Store Leadership Internship and are either working towards becoming a Merchandising Manager or currently succeeding in the role.

One key takeaway from our conversations is that the true strength of these programs is the people. Both professionals mentioned that their favorite part of work was the team they are a part of and how supported they feel. Whether they grew up shopping in the store or strolled by the booth at their college career fair, the connections they made with this brand go beyond what a typical internship offers.

Additionally, both individuals applauded Kohl’s for their dedication to development.While many internships provide a summer experience, Kohl’s programs are designed to not only provide a summer experience but one that provides hands-on experience and develops leadership skills. At Kohl’s, these programs are designed to enhance your leadership skills so you come out the other side as a Merchandising Manager. 

From networking events to assigned mentors who help map out career paths, it’s evident from our conversations that Kohl’s is committed to developing the next generation of leaders. These programs are ideal for any current college student or recent grad who wants to kick start their career in the right direction.

About the Leaders in Training

Shiyan Reed is someone who knows how to set goals and get after them. As an aspiring intellectual property attorney, Kohl’s was not yet part of her long-term plan. But, after speaking with some Kohl’s store managers at a Texas State University career fair, it was clear the Kohl’s Store Leadership Programs were where she wanted to grow as a leader. Shiyan completed the internship and trainee program at the Pflugerville, Texas location before stepping into her current position as Merchandising Manager at the Leander location.

As a current Store Leadership Trainee, Sandy McGlothlin has her sights set on her path ahead. Upon completion of her 12-week program, she will step into the role as Merchandising Manager in San Diego. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Marketing from the University of Arizona, her analytical mindset helps her find solutions to problems in an efficient and effective manner.

Q: What originally brought you to Kohl’s, and what keeps you there?

Q: How has Kohl’s fostered and supported your development?

Q: What are your career goals at Kohl’s?

Q: What’s one piece of advice that has stuck with you through your career that you would also give to someone newly joining the workforce?

When it comes to starting your career off on the right foot, making the first step can feel overwhelming. What Kohl’s offers in their leadership programs goes beyond a resumé–it’s an experience that jump-starts an impactful, meaningful career.  

Want to learn more about the Kohl’s Store Leadership Internship and Store Leadership Trainee Program? Head over to Kohl’s WayUp profile to learn more about the company and browse open roles, upcoming events, and more.

The post The Launchpad for Leaders: How the Kohl’s Store Leadership Programs are Setting Up Early Professionals for Success appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Welcome to the ideal destination for professional transformation and growth—KPMG Lakehouse. Are you an early career professional looking to elevate your skills, ignite your potential, and fast-track your journey to success in the world of business and accounting? Look no further. KPMG Lakehouse, nestled in the vibrant hub of Lake Nona, Orlando, stands as a beacon of opportunity, offering an immersive learning experience that propels early-career candidates towards a realm of unlimited possibilities.

To gain more insight into the intricacies of KPMG Lakehouse, we spoke with a few KPMG insiders whose careers have been profoundly influenced by their experiences there.

Through our conversations, we discovered that Lakehouse offers attendees a unique ecosystem that merges immersive networking opportunities, cutting-edge technology, and hands-on learning methodologies all under one roof. Whether you’re aspiring to pursue a career in accounting, seeking to fortify your business acumen, or aiming to harness the power of technology in the corporate world, KPMG Lakehouse invites you to unlock your potential and chart an extraordinary career path within the esteemed KPMG network.

Breaking The Ice With Future Collaborators

Lakehouse isn’t just a space for learning; it’s KPMG’s cultural home where future leaders converge, collaborate, and cultivate professional relationships.

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals while fostering friendships and professional relationships that could last your entire career. Through interactive workshops, team-building exercises, and social events, early career candidates at Lakehouse have the chance to break the ice and establish meaningful connections with their future colleagues.

As depicted by Kyle and Jen’s experiences, building these connections during your time at Lakehouse not only opens doors to diverse perspectives and shared experiences but also lays the foundation for collaborative opportunities and mentorship, all things that are essential for a flourishing career at KPMG.

A Technologically Advanced Immersion

KPMG Lakehouse is more than just a haven for networking, it’s a technological marvel boasting a diverse array of cutting-edge tools and platforms designed to immerse early career candidates in the digital landscape.

Equipped with state-of-the-art tech infrastructure this facility serves as a sandbox for emerging talents to familiarize themselves with the latest innovations in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and other disruptive technologies. One of the most unique pieces of technology at Lakehouse is the app which powers each attendees’ experience.

According to Karissa Cornell, the app comes with “all sorts of features that are akin to a 5-star resort.” Whether it’s preordering coffee, scheduling a fitness activity, finding out about social outings, or building and maintaining connections, the app is one of the ways that KPMG really “individualizes the experience for all guests.”

By delving into these technologies, early career candidates acquire a competitive edge, fostering a deep-seated familiarity with the tools and platforms crucial for professional development. Whether it’s learning to harness the power of data analytics or understanding the impact of AI on business strategies, Lakehouse provides a hands-on approach that equips individuals with the expertise and confidence needed to thrive in their future roles at KPMG.

Laying Down a Foundation of Experience for Future Success

In addition to being a cutting-edge facility where technology intersects with immersive networking opportunities, Lakehouse also offers new hires the opportunity to get comfortable and more familiar with the day-to-day work they will be doing as an intern or associate.

Offering immersive simulations that mirror real-life audit, tax, and advisory projects, these experiences expose employees to the complexities and nuances of actual client work. This approach not only deepens their understanding of the intricacies within practice areas but also cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in their future roles at KPMG.

By engaging in these exercises, individuals gain invaluable experience learning to work collaboratively, make informed decisions, and navigate complex scenarios within a supportive learning environment. This hands-on approach not only builds confidence but also ensures that future interns and employees are well-prepared to hit the ground running and excel in the dynamic landscape of Audit, Tax, or Advisory at KPMG.

A Place to Begin Your Career

From interactive networking sessions that foster enduring connections to hands-on experiences with state-of-the-art tools, Lakehouse ensures participants are not just learning, but evolving into adaptable, skilled, and well-connected professionals prepared to excel at KPMG and beyond.

To find out more about KPMG, their innovative training ground, and open positions, check out their WayUp profile or www.kpmguscareers.com/early-career.

Some or all of the services described herein may not be permissible for KPMG audit clients and their affiliates or related entities.

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

© 2023 KPMG LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved.

The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. 

The post Discover the Future of Professional Development: KPMG Lakehouse Propels Early Career Success appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Freddie Mac—also known as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation—is an essential facet of the U.S. economy. They help millions of America’s families realize their goal to own or rent a home. But it doesn’t stop there: the company places a priority on helping their employees realize their goals too.

Here are five reasons to make this mission-driven company your destination employer.

1. There Are Plenty Of Functions And Departments—So You Can Find Your Dream Role

Marisa joined Freddie Mac after college in their Financial Analyst Rotational Program. She had an interest in finance and a desire to make an impact. Beyond that, though, she wasn’t sure exactly what she wanted in her job. And that actually worked out perfectly. Freddie Mac has a wide variety of departments, offerings and functions, so no matter where your interests and talents lie, you can find a role that works best for you.

In her rotational analyst program, Marisa was able to experience many of those facets of Freddie Mac in just two years.

“Being able to ‘test drive’ four completely different jobs was a unique opportunity that helped me narrow down exactly what I wanted to do,” Marisa explains. “I sat down and thought about what I liked best about each of my four rotations and sought a job that encompassed all of those things. This helped me find a fulfilling role that matched my skill sets and interests.”

Throughout her time in the program, she learned a ton from hands-on experience and Freddie Mac’s FMYou program, which offers personalized continuous learning opportunities on all aspects of employees’ professional and personal growth.

Now, Marisa is a Multifamily Real Estate Underwriting Analyst, continuing to deliver on Freddie Mac’s mission and making a tangible impact in the communities they serve.

2. You Can Contribute To An Amazing Mission (In More Ways Than One)

Making homeownership and rental housing more accessible and affordable is a noble cause. And it’s not just through their core functions in the secondary mortgage market of the financial services industry that Freddie Mac accomplishes this goal. The company (and their employees) are also dedicated to giving back through community service.

Take the company’s decades-long partnership with Habitat for Humanity, for example. Freddie Mac folks don’t shy away from picking up a hammer, climbing up a ladder and, quite literally, building a home. In 2018 alone, employees dedicated more than 9,000 hours serving the communities in which they live and work.

And if you’re like most people at Freddie Mac, then you’re probably wondering what other opportunities there are to help out. That’s where the company’s volunteer group, the Community Crew, comes in.

3. They’re Serious About Inclusion & Diversity (And Many People Agree)

When you serve a coast-to-coast constituency like Freddie Mac does, inclusion and diversity is a mission-critical must.

The company’s efforts to cultivate a diverse, inclusive environment are well-documented—and well-recognized. It starts with the numbers: Freddie Mac is a majority-minority company, women and minorities make up nearly half their workforce.

They’ve been recognized many times for their emphasis on diversity and their inclusive practices –Working Mother magazine named them a top spot for multicultural women, the National Association for Female Executives recognized them as a leading location for female executive talent, and the Human Rights Equality Index and Disability Equality Index have repeatedly awarded the company a top, 100% score for their inclusive practices.

Recently, Freddie Mac was also recognized by the Profiles in Diversity Journal with two Innovations in Diversity Awards for their Autism Internship Program and LGBT & Housing Insights report. These initiatives can help people far beyond the boundaries of the company and are just two examples of how Freddie Mac fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

4. Start Paying Down Student Loans, Getting That Graduate Degree, And Even Buying A Home

As a financial services company, Freddie Mac is acutely aware of the financial burdens recent graduates are facing. That’s why they have their student loan assistance program. Over a five-year period, eligible employees receive contributions totaling up to $9,000 toward their student loan payments.

And if you’re already thinking about your next educational endeavor, the company also provides up to $10,000 a year for eligible tuition expenses. So, if you have your sights set on an MBA program, working for Freddie Mac could be the perfect opportunity to help make that happen.

Thinking one step further down the line, Freddie Mac offers financial assistance for first-time homebuyers too. As a member of the Freddie Mac team, you can qualify for up to $12,000 in assistance when you’re buying your first home. How’s that for a long-term plan?

5. Be Well, Live Well (With Amazing Benefits)

It’s not all learning and working. Taking time off is an essential part of employees’ total well-being too. And at Freddie Mac, every entry-level employee at the company gets at least 15 days of paid vacation every year. (That number gets bigger over time too.)

But the policy isn’t just about giving you time to relax; it’s a commitment to your physical and emotional well-being. Get in your steps or daily workout at the on-site gym, which is open 14 hours a day during the work week. And you can rest easy knowing that the Wellness Center is there for you, offering free on-site health care services and advice, including free yearly flu shots.

Whether you’re in the office or taking time away from it, Freddie Mac has your back.

From your total well-being to transformational work, it’s a dynamic time to join Freddie Mac, where you’ll break through boundaries, learn to take calculated risks and see your ideas take shape.

Want to find your home at Freddie Mac? Check out open opportunities from Freddie Mac on WayUp!

The post 5 Reasons To Start (And Grow) Your Career At Freddie Mac appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

When it comes to setting up interns and employees for success, not all companies are created equal. In fact, one in particular stands out: Infor. We asked a few team members at Infor how their company helps them succeed. Here’s what they had to say:

A Supportive and Encouraging Environment

Eva Fine, a former Infor intern on the education team and a student at Washington University in St. Louis, says she was always trusted to complete all of her responsibilities efficiently and effectively. “Though I had not been exposed to this type of work before, the full-time employees on my team trained me very patiently, and then trusted me to work independently to complete all of my work. Though they were always available for questions, I appreciated this trust and felt proud when I was successful.”

Networking Opportunities

“Being involved in LEAP (Leaders of the Education Alliance Program) has helped me network with professionals in many areas at Infor,” says Chad Behnke, a sales rep who graduated from Concordia University with an MBA. LEAP is Infor’s 18-month, on-the-job training program for new associates. And since Infor employees work in just about every industry you can think of, there’s always someone new to talk to and something new to learn.  

Access to Leadership

One activity that stood out to Eva from her summer interning at Infor was the Scholar Lunches, where company leaders would share their professional backgrounds and the projects they were working on. “This inspired us and let us see how their paths led them to their positions at Infor,” she says.

Room to Grow

“Infor has a tremendous amount of courses and resources available to employees,” says Alyssa Barry, an Infor Value Engineering consultant who graduated from Brandeis University with a master’s in international business. “I can be selective and take courses that might be beneficial to my career on my own time.”

Opportunities to continue learning and growing are available outside the company, too. “I plan on taking advantage of the tuition reimbursement plan here to continue educating myself in pursuit of another master’s degree,” Chad told us.

The Chance to Make a Company-Wide Impact

Tyler Henn, a security management major at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, interned with the business innovation and technology information risk team at Infor. “We were in charge of protecting the company from threats like malware and social engineering,” he says. Tyler was in charge of creating content for future awareness trainings, educating employees about security risks, and working alongside his manager to update security policies. 

Ready to join a company that’s invested in your success? Infor is hiring now, so head over to WayUp, check out their open jobs, and apply!

The post What Does it Mean to Invest in Employee Success? These Team Members Have the Answer appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.