How to best prepare for the UWindsor Career Expo is one of many topics in the upcoming Lancer Launch Virtual Workshop Series. (FILE/UNIVERSITY OF WINDSOR)
By John-Paul Bonadonna
Making the jump from student to working professional isn’t always as easy as crossing the stage at convocation.
A competitive labour market, limited entry-level opportunities and the pressure to “have it all figured out” can leave new alumni feeling stuck, uncertain or disconnected from their next step.
The University of Windsor’s Career Centre is responding in support of students who need additional assistance.
Lancer Launch: Career Momentum for Recent Alumni is a new, free career-support initiative designed specifically for graduates who are zero to three years post-graduation and navigating today’s evolving job market.
Lancer Launch sends a clear and timely message to recent grads: you’re always a Lancer, and we’re here to support you.
“Graduation is not the end of the relationship, it’s the beginning of a new chapter,” said Krista Kelly, manager of the Career Centre.
“Lancer Launch reflects our belief that alumni success matters and that the early career years are a time for building confidence, direction and momentum, even when the job market can feel unpredictable and overwhelming.”
Career support that grows with you
Designed for alumni who are job searching, underemployed or feeling uncertain about next steps, the program helps participants rebuild confidence, sharpen their job-search approach and reconnect with the support systems they trusted as students.
At the heart of Lancer Launch is a curated mix of learning, direct support and opportunity.
Participants gain access to:
- Live, interactive virtual lunchtime workshops led by career professionals
- One-to-one career conversations, available both virtually and in person
- Recruiter-informed strategies grounded in current hiring practices
- Dedicated preparation for the UWindsor Career Expo, connecting alumni directly with employers
- Ongoing access to the UWindsor Career Centre, reinforcing long-term alumni support
A workshop series built for real life
Throughout February and March, the Lancer Launch Virtual Workshop Series runs from 12:00–1:00 p.m., making it accessible alongside work, job searching or other commitments. Each session provides practical tools and space to ask questions:
- Feb. 27 - Crafting Your Resume: Insider Secrets to Think Like a Recruiter
- March 6 - Why Networking Matters & How to Get Started
- March 13 - Career Conversations for Alumni
- March 20 - Preparing for the Career Expo (Noon to 12:30 p.m.)
In-person connection still matters
For alumni who miss the energy of campus or value face-to-face support, the program also offers Career Coffee Chats — no appointment required, Tuesdays through Thursdays between noon and 12:50 p.m.
These relaxed, 15-minute drop-in conversations take place at the Career Centre (Joyce Entrepreneurship Centre, southeast corner of Wyandotte and Sunset) and offer a chance to talk through career questions with a professional advisor over a free coffee or tea.
Reconnecting with opportunity at the UWindsor Career Expo
The Lancer Launch experience culminates in the UWindsor Career Expo on March 25, hosted at the Toldo Lancer Centre.
Both current students and alumni will have the opportunity to connect directly with employers across industries, armed with preparation, confidence and strategy gained through the program.
You’re still a Lancer
Lancer Launch reflects the University of Windsor’s commitment to its alumni as lifelong members of the Lancer community. It recognizes that early career paths aren’t linear and that support shouldn’t disappear once a degree is conferred.
If you’re a recent graduate feeling uncertain, overwhelmed or simply ready for a reset, Lancer Launch is your invitation to reconnect, regroup and regain momentum.
For more information or to register for Lancer Launch programming, visit:
www.uwindsor.ca/careercentre