Career Week Highlights the Future of Work for AURAK Students
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) recently hosted its annual Career Week, a four‑day event that brought together top employers from the UAE and beyond. The program, themed “Connecting Talent with Employers,” showcased a wide range of job openings for students and alumni while offering practical workshops on resume writing, interview techniques, and personal branding. The event also featured panel discussions on the future of work, the impact of artificial intelligence, and emerging career paths in technology, hospitality, finance, and more.
Key Takeaways for Students and Alumni
For students preparing to enter the workforce, the Career Week provided a clear roadmap for success. Below are the most actionable insights shared by industry experts and university leaders:
1. Build a Strong Personal Brand on LinkedIn
One of the workshops focused on LinkedIn visibility. Experts emphasized that a complete profile—professional photo, headline, summary, and keyword‑rich experience—can attract recruiters. Students should also join relevant groups, share industry articles, and engage with posts from potential employers.
2. Master the Art of the Elevator Pitch
During the interview strategy session, participants practiced concise, compelling pitches that highlight their unique skills and career goals. A well‑crafted pitch can set the tone for the rest of the interview and leave a memorable impression.
3. Understand the Role of AI in Your Field
Panelists discussed how artificial intelligence is reshaping roles in finance, engineering, and hospitality. Students should research AI tools relevant to their discipline—such as data analytics platforms for business students or simulation software for engineering majors—and incorporate them into their skill set.
4. Leverage Alumni Success Stories
Graduates shared real‑world experiences, offering advice on navigating career challenges and adapting to industry changes. Listening to these stories helps students identify transferable skills and potential career paths that align with their interests.
5. Prepare for On‑Site Interviews and Talent Scouting
The event’s job fair created an energetic environment for on‑site interviews. Students should arrive early, bring multiple copies of their resume, and be ready to discuss how their academic projects align with the employer’s needs.
Employer Participation: A Snapshot
Career Week attracted companies across several sectors, including:
- Technology and telecommunications – Huawei, RAK Ports
- Hospitality and tourism – Marjan, Hampton by Hilton, Mövenpick Resort, Sofitel, The Cove, Rotana
- Finance and banking – RAKBANK, Julphar
- Construction and engineering – RAK Properties, Mace
- Healthcare and research – Rove Al Marjan Island, Education for Employment (EFE)
These employers offered a mix of full‑time roles, internships, and project‑based opportunities, underscoring the breadth of career options available to AURAK graduates.
How AURAK Supports Career Readiness
Beyond the Career Week, the university’s Alumni and Career Services Department provides continuous support:
- Resume and cover letter reviews
- Mock interview sessions with industry partners
- Career counseling tailored to individual majors
- Workshops on emerging technologies and industry trends
Students are encouraged to schedule a career consultation early in their academic journey to align coursework with industry demands.
Action Plan for Students
- Update Your LinkedIn Profile: Add a professional photo, craft a headline that reflects your career goal, and list relevant coursework and projects.
- Attend Workshops: Sign up for resume writing, interview strategy, and AI in industry sessions.
- Network with Alumni: Reach out through the alumni portal to learn about their career paths and seek mentorship.
- Apply Early: Submit applications to positions that match your skill set before the application deadline.
- Follow Up: Send a brief thank‑you email after interviews, highlighting a key point discussed.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Opportunities
Following the success of Career Week, AURAK will continue to host industry summits, such as the CXO Summit, and expand partnerships with local and international companies. Students should keep an eye on the university’s news portal for announcements on new internship programs, scholarship opportunities, and industry‑specific workshops.
Get Involved and Take the Next Step
Whether you are a current student, recent graduate, or prospective applicant, there are several ways to engage with AURAK’s career ecosystem:
- Apply now for AURAK programs and start building a future that aligns with your goals.
- Schedule a career consultation to discuss your career path with experienced advisors.
- Join the alumni network to connect with professionals across industries.
- Read more about our latest events and stay updated on industry trends.
- Share your feedback on Career Week to help us improve future events.
By actively engaging with these resources, students can transform the knowledge gained at Career Week into tangible career opportunities, positioning themselves as competitive candidates in the evolving UAE job market.
