Plan of Study or career goal

KCC Student ID or 0000 if not student

Reason for appointment

English

Kankakee Community College

You are about to make an appointment with one of KCC's Retention Navigators. The Navigator assists with connecting students to KCC and community-based resources. This is not an advising appointment. 

This appointment will be in Student Affairs on 2nd floor of the WDC building. Please be aware that if you are late, you may be asked to reschedule.

Please provide an explanation of the appointment for me to better serve you below.

Retention Success Navigator-not for Advising Appts

Tell your story and connect the dots for employers. Move beyond the template. This appointment focuses on crafting a compelling narrative that links your specific qualifications to the needs of the employer. We’ll help you articulate your "why" and make a persuasive case for your candidacy.

Cover Letter Review

Financial Literacy ( FAFSA, other)

Campus Tour

Master the strategy and etiquette of a successful interview. Before you step into the room, learn the mechanics of a great interview. This session covers various formats (phone, virtual, or in-person) and how to prepare for each. We will discuss:
•	The TMAY Opening: How to answer the "Tell Me About Yourself" prompt effectively.
•	The STAR Method: Using a proven structure for behavioral interview questions.
•	Etiquette & Professionalism: Tips on appropriate attire, "Dos and Don’ts," and common tips and tricks.
•	Developing Questions: Crafting insightful questions to ask the interviewer.

Interview Prep

Move beyond the "apply" button with a proactive plan. Stop scrolling and start searching strategically. We will help you identify the best job boards for your industry, teach you how to leverage LinkedIn for networking, and develop a systematic approach to finding hidden opportunities and tracking your applications.

Job Search Strategies

New TRIO Student Intake

Discover your path and align your passions with a profession. In this session, we will assess your interests, skills, and values to identify potential career paths. Whether you are choosing a major or considering a mid-career pivot, we’ll provide the tools and resources to help you make informed decisions about your future.

Career Exploration

Application assistance

Build professional relationships and expand your reach. Networking is often the "hidden" key to landing a job. In this session, we will discuss how to identify key contacts and build meaningful professional connections. We will focus on:
•	The Elevator Pitch: Developing a concise and engaging summary of who you are and what you offer.
•	Outreach Strategy: Learning how to conduct informational interviews and reach out to professionals on LinkedIn.
•	Maintaining Connections: Tips for following up and keeping your network active over time.

Networking

Academic Advising (Change of schedule/Course registration)

To create a plan for all the classes in your program

MAP (Master Academic Plan)

Academic Success Coaching

Build a high-impact document that gets you noticed. A resume is your first impression. We will work together to polish your content, improve your formatting, and ensure your professional experiences are tailored to the roles you want. We’ll also ensure your resume is optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Resume Review

Transfer/ Career Exploration

Practice your delivery in a realistic, low-stakes environment. Step into the hot seat and refine your performance before the big day. We offer two approaches to suit your needs:
•	General Practice: Covering common, high-frequency interview questions.
•	Tailored Practice: Simulating a specific role with questions customized to a particular field.
Note: If you prefer a tailored session, please email the job description to cboyd@kcc.edu at least 24 hours before your appointment.

Mock Interview

Goal: Map out your education while you find your focus. Not sure which major is the right fit? You don’t have to have it all figured out today. In this session, we will focus on keeping your options open while making progress toward a degree. We will discuss:
•	Core Requirements: Selecting "general education" courses that transfer well and apply to multiple programs.
•	Degree Pathways: Exploring the different certificates and degrees offered at KCC to see what sparks your interest.
•	Goal Alignment: Discussing your long-term personal and professional goals to ensure your academic plan supports them.
•	Prerequisite Planning: Identifying "foundational" classes that provide a glimpse into specific industries without committing to a full major yet.

Academic Advising for Undecided Students

Optimize your digital brand and increase your visibility. Your LinkedIn profile is your 24/7 digital billboard. We will review your profile to ensure it is professional, searchable, and engaging. This session covers:
•	Visuals & Headlines: Selecting the right profile photo and crafting a keyword-rich headline.
•	The "About" Section: Writing a summary that highlights your unique value.
•	Experience & Skills: Organizing your history and skills to attract recruiters and industry peers.

Linked In Review

Hello, You are about to make an appointment with a KCC Academic Advisor. 

Your appointment will be on the River Road campus. Please enter under the sign that says "Welcome Center" and go to the second floor. Follow the hallway to Student Services. Please bring transcripts and a photo ID

New Student Academic Advising Appointment In-Person

Hello, You are about to make an appointment with a KCC Academic Advisor. 

Your appointment will be on the River Road campus. Please enter under the sign that says "Welcome Center" and go to the second floor. Follow the hallway to Student Services. Please bring a photo ID.

Select a team member

Kankakee Community College

Abby Whalen

Abby Whalen

Retention Success Navigator

Steven Baker

Steven Baker

CTE Success Navigator

Kristney Vaulx

Kristney Vaulx

Kankakee Community College

Summary

Retention Success Navigator-not for Advising Appts