Students looking at a computer during the LEAP Symposium

Career Readiness

At Mount Holyoke College students are supported by a comprehensive career readiness program that is woven throughout the entire student experience. From foundational career exploration to post-graduate success, MHC is dedicated to fostering the confidence, practical skills and professional experiences that are essential for our students' long-term achievements.

A career counselor working with a student in the Career Development Center
The Mount Holyoke Experience

From learning to leadership

Here, students are encouraged to lean into curiosity and practice. The interdisciplinary nature of a Mount Holyoke education allows students to ideate through real-world experiences and discover how their vision can drive meaningful change.

We provide funding for sophomores and juniors to pursue unpaid internship and research opportunities so that each student has the opportunity to explore career interests and gain practical experience.

A Nexus is a specialized minor that connects interdisciplinary learning with some of today’s most dynamic career fields.

More opportunities to grow

The LEAP Symposium is Mount Holyoke’s annual showcase of student summer research and internship experiences, demonstrating our commitment to learning through doing.

In this multi-day, immersive conference, sophomores lean into self-exploration as they network with and hear from alums, participate in workshops and breakout sessions and more.

Each year, students interested in public service careers have an opportunity to visit worksites and connect with alums working in politics, policy, advocacy and government.

Students combine an intensive internship in Washington, D.C. with rigorous coursework in government, policy, advocacy and related fields through American University.

This program exists to demystify the eligibility requirements and application process for national fellowship programs in order to support our students as they pursue their goals.

More than 70% of Mount Holyoke’s undergraduates work on-campus — in labs, dining rooms, the computing center, the library and more.

MHC in DC - students

Career Connections Mentoring Program

Mount Holyoke’s Career Connections Mentoring Program gives students direct access to the power of our alum network — thousands of graduates leading in industries around the world. Each semester, in partnership with the Alum Association, the Career Development Center will match students with alum mentors who can offer guidance, insight and support in preparation for life after graduation. Whether matches are made by industry or shared identity, this program creates a space for students to ask questions, build confidence and envision their next steps. Rooted in MHC Forward’s commitment to comprehensive career readiness, the program continues to grow — expanding to now include sophomores and juniors, as well as group mentoring opportunities tied to career communities.

Students at the Leadership and Service Awards

Career Communities

Our Career Communities are designed to help students connect their liberal arts education with professional pathways. Each community brings together students, alum mentors, career specialists and employers to create a supportive network where students can deepen their understanding of industries; gain insights on hiring practices, timelines and trends; and explore multiple career interests. Through Handshake, students may opt into one or more communities, including: 

The Arts
Business, Finance and Consulting
Computer Science and Technology
Education and Social Impact
Health Professions
Journalism, Media and Marketing
Law, Government and Public Policy
Science, Engineering and Math

Join a Career Community

Upcoming events

 

Campus Voices

Spotlight on career readiness

Mount Holyoke College has joined the Liman Summer Undergraduate Fellowship program. Students in this program serve as summer fellows, working with nonprofits and state and local government agencies throughout the United States.

Jaime Grillo and Tayler Kreutter have been promoted to associate vice president roles at Mount Holyoke College.

Mount Holyoke College students who did research projects on campus this summer had the opportunity to present their work at a symposium in Kendade Hall.

Career readiness by the numbers

Action now, so that you are prepared for success later. At Mount Holyoke, our commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers is reflected in real, measurable outcomes.

$1.5M

Lynk internship funding

We ensure every student has access to a paid internship. In 2024 the College awarded over $1,500,000 in internship funding to 358 students.

92%

Career outcomes

92% of graduates from the class of 2024 for whom outcomes data could be obtained (73% of the class) were employed and/or in graduate school within six months following graduation.

4,588

in-person, virtual and drop-in appointments

in the CDC during the 2024-2025 academic year — a record!

86%

Graduates completing at least one internship

86% of all class of 2025 graduates completed at least one summer internship, research experience or independent project before graduating.

40,000+

Alums leading the way

Mount Holyoke alums have been breaking barriers and leading across fields since the College’s founding. Today, they remain a powerful resource for students — opening doors, sharing expertise and helping the next generation launch meaningful careers.

Interested in graduate or professional school? Check out further resources.

Mount Holyoke College offers a wide variety of advising services and resources to guide you through the steps necessary to achieve your academic goals beyond graduation. We can meet you wherever you are on your career journey and help you get to the next level!

To discuss your plans for law school, call the CDC to make an appointment with Yaldira Felix Castro, the MHC Pre-Law Advisor. We offer various opportunities and resources to students and alums considering law school.

Mount Holyoke students and alums interested in exploring topics in health through their studies and future professional endeavors can receive support and guidance.

Graduate school — whether it is a one year master’s degree or a six-year PhD program — represents a considerable investment of time and often money. Make an appointment with a CDC career specialist to get started.

We offer unprecedented access to internship & professional opportunities through our employer partnership with Smith and Amherst Colleges.

We encourage you to utilize The Gates, where alums and students can find one another and stay connected—through all transitions of life.

Contact us

Jaime Grillo
  • Associate Vice President for Career Readiness