FAQ sections
General program questions
- When did the Calvin LifeWork program begin?
The program began in the fall of 2017, originally set up as a four-year program that students started in their first year. Beginning with the fall of 2022, all Calvin students can access Calvin LifeWork and have the freedom to utilize the program based on their own schedule and needs.
- Is the program required in order to graduate from Calvin?
No, this is an optional, co-curricular program and has no ties to graduation.
- Is there a limit on the number of students who can participate or a cost to participate?
There is not a limit to the number of students, and there is no extra cost to participating in this program.
- How is this program different from career coaching?
While several of the program's training modules are available on an ad hoc basis within the Career Center and through career coaching appointments, Calvin LifeWork is comprehensive and features additional training in leadership and personal finance.
- How/when do I get in the program?
You can choose to begin Calvin LifeWork as early as the fall semester of your first year, as late as your final semester, or anytime in between. All Calvin LifeWork modules are available online in Moodle, and you can complete modules at any time and in any order that is most beneficial to you.
- What is PathwayU and what role does it play in Calvin LifeWork?
Calvin’s Career Center uses PathwayU, an assessment developed by vocational psychologists, to help students explore career paths that will be satisfying based on an individual’s interests, values, personality and workplace preferences. The PathwayU module in Calvin LifeWork provides student with the opportunity to learn more about themselves, as well as career possibilities that fit their profile.
- How does a student get an internship through Calvin LifeWork?
Calvin LifeWork does not require students to complete an internship, although internships are strongly recommended as a way for students to test out career options and gain relevant experience. Students can find many internship postings on Handshake, and career coaches in the Career Center can also help students with their internship search.
Related to areas of study
- Is this program only for students who are still deciding on a major or area of study?
No, this program is available for all students including those who know, think they know or don't know what their area of study will be. The goal of the program is to prepare students for life after Calvin regardless of what they study.
- The focus of the first year programming is related to discovery. I already know what I want to major in, so is the programming still relevant for me?
The first year is focused on discovering your vocation beyond just your major or what job you will pursue. We see a student’s primary vocation as who they are in Christ. This year will help you understand your primary calling and how that aligns with all aspects of your life. An assessment like PathwayU provides a unique opportunity to think about how personality, skills, and workplace preferences inform how you navigate through a variety of life contexts as well as to refine your career goals. This discovery is relevant to all students, regardless of major or career path.
- Does my intended major affect the program requirements?
No, the program is not academic, it is co-curricular. The training modules equip students in the areas of vocation, career-readiness, leadership and personal finance—all topics essential for career and life readiness.
- Does the Calvin LifeWork program focus only on certain careers?
Not at all, it’s open for everyone. Programming will be relevant to all students regardless of major.
Commitment of time
- How much commitment is involved with this program?
Students determine how much time they want to invest in Calvin LifeWork. There are 35 online modules, and each module takes approximately 1 hour to complete
- How long will I have to complete each assignment?
There are no deadlines with Calvin LifeWork. You can decide when to complete the modules that are most relevant to you, and earn prizes along the way for completing sets of modules.
- I’m involved in extracurricular activities (such as a sports team or Perkins Fellows). Will I be able to balance this program with my other commitments?
Calvin LifeWork is flexible enough to accommodate the scheduling demands of students participating in extracurricular activities, since modules will be offered online.
- Will studying off-campus affect my involvement in the program?
No, each of the modules will be available in an online format.
Modules
- What is an example of a module and an assignment?
An example of a module is “Resumes that Get Results,” which includes a series of short videos instructing students how to create an effective resume. The activity within that module is to create a resume and have it reviewed by a career coach, either virtually or in-person.
- Is the program only online, or is there a personal aspect?
Calvin LifeWork is primarily online, with the exception of some in-person activities offered on a limited basis (such as an Escape Room activity for the “Contributing to a Team’s Success” module).
Miscellaneous questions
- I have a disability and may struggle to access Calvin Lifework trainings. Will you accommodate my access?
All of our programming will be ADA compliant, and we will work to accommodate the individual needs of Calvin LifeWork participants.
- How is the program geared toward this generation of students?
Young people are looking for ways to live holistically, find meaning in their work, and balance life and work well. This program helps students think deeply about these vocational topics as they develop a sense of call. Additionally, students are accustomed to using technology for learning and they will complete their modules for Calvin LifeWork online.
- How does this program benefit international students?
This program will benefit international students similarly to domestic students. All students will be encouraged to think deeply about their vocation as well as gain practical skills that are relevant across the globe.
- Can international students participate in Calvin Lifework?
Definitely!
Feel free to contact the Career Center if you have other questions or need more clarification.