Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find local employment?

Local and on-campus jobs are available through the Office of Student Employment. These include babysitting, tutoring, and work-study positions. Check the bulletin board near Common Ground on the second floor of Bates to view recent job posts. On-campus jobs are also listed online. To check the listings, login to MySLC and click on the "Student" tab. Under "Student Resources" choose "Student Employment." For questions, contact the Office of Student Employment at (914) 395-2572 or on Westlands Second Floor.

I’ve heard I can store my letters of recommendation at the Office of Career Counseling. How does this work?

The Office of Career Counseling offers a credential file service. A credential file contains letters of recommendation. Copies of these letters are mailed, at the credential holder’s request, to potential employers and graduate schools. To start and operate the credential file service, follow these instructions:

Start a credential file

• Fill out an Authorization Form, complete with your signature
• Return the form in person or by mail to the Office of Career Counseling
• Ask professors and employers to mail their letters of recommendation to the Office of Career Counseling (1 Mead Way, Bates 2S, Bronxville, NY 10708) on school or professional letterhead
• Note: if you plan on using the same letter for several different types of applications—i.e., internship and job opportunities now and in the future—request a generic letter of recommendation.

Request a mailing

• Email the Office with a list of the letters you would like to be sent
• Include a complete address for each mailing
• If your letters of recommendation need to be included in a packet of materials sent by you, we will seal your letters for each program in an envelope marked “confidential” and bulk mail the letters to your current address.

Can I read my credential file?

No. Confidentiality rules prohibit us from allowing students to read their credential file. Once a letter of recommendation is on file, it is the Office’s right to protect the privacy of the professor or professional who authored the letter. If you have a question regarding a letter of recommendation, please contact the professor or employer who wrote the letter.

Why should I do an internship?

An internship is a “hands on” learning experience in exploring various careers related to academic and personal interests. An internship also allows you to acquire new skills, define career goals, and network for future job opportunities. The benefits of interning are widely recognized, and approximately one-third of all Sarah Lawrence students participate in this popular career program during their four years.

What do I do if my internship requires credit?

If your internship requires academic credit, you need to fill out a Fieldwork Application, which can be picked-up at the Dean of Studies Office. If you have questions, please contact the Dean of Studies Office at (914) 395-2249, Westlands Second Floor.

If your internship just requires credit you have the option of applying for co-curricular credit through the Office of Career Counseling.

I am just beginning to think about my future in terms of careers. What is the first step I should take?

The recommended first step in the career planning process is to take inventory of your personality, skills, values, and interests using self-assessments. Knowing what industries or job functions are of greatest interest to you will make your internship and job search more manageable. More importantly, you will be better prepared to find a career that best suits you.

I’ve researched careers using online resources. Is there text-based material that I can explore?

Visit the Office and peruse our career library. Some of our books include: The Nonprofit Career Guide, The Career Guide for Creative and Unconventional People, Green Jobs, Making a Living While Making a Difference, Acing the Interview, Job Search Book for College Graduates, and Working Abroad. Books are not available to be checked-out, but you are welcome to sit and read in the Office and make photocopies of pages of interest.

How can I improve my interviewing skills?

One option would be to come in for a mock interview, a practice interview conducted by a career counselor. Counselors provide valuable feedback on your interviewing strengths and weaknesses, as well as general recommendations for a successful first impression. If you choose, the interview can be videotaped. Mock interviews with a career counselor require an appointment. To schedule an appointment, please call (914) 395-2566, or email the Office.

I am applying for a job. Where can I get help with my resume and cover letter?

First, you can review the Resume Guide and the Cover Letter Guide (the packets can be picked up in our office).

Another option is to make an appointment with a career counselor to review your final draft. Please email your resume and cover letter before your appointment to ensure that the counselor has sufficient time to review the materials and prepare comments.