In addition to one-on-one advising, Sullivan creates and executes events for Tufts students at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA) on the Fenway campus and students on the Medford/Sommerville campus. From portfolio review days and networking events to guest presentations, these are opportunities for students to hone their career competency skills and meet alumni and employers. (Upcoming events: Communications, Marketing & Media Networking Night and SMFA Portfolio Review Day).
Sullivan’s advice to all students (no matter what their major or class year) is to never to underestimate the relationships that they’re building. “Networking is so important; it’s a skill that will come up over and over again as most students will switch jobs multiple times and may even switch careers. We teach them skills that will serve them well when they leave Tufts,” she said.
SMFA at Tufts
Sullivan highlights what sets SMFA apart from other art schools, emphasizing that SMFA’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) students explore a variety of mediums rather than pursuing one specific art or design industry. “SMFA students are shaped by a lot of different mediums. I help them articulate that ‘edge’ that their fine arts degree gives them and the broad spectrum of skills they’ve gained to prospective employers.”
Students on a Creative Path
Whether they’re an SMFA student or Medford/Somerville based, Sullivan says students pursuing a creative path are often navigating where their passion fits into their career and life goals. “We have nuanced, individualized conversations about how they can fulfill their creative output while supporting themselves: where passion meets pragmatic,” she said.
Career Center Fellows and Drop-in Hours
This year, the Career Center added three SMFA fellow positions held by BFA students as part of its robust undergraduate fellow program. All fellows go through extensive training to help with advising their peers on finding internships and exploring career resources as well as reviewing resumes and cover letters. The SMFA fellows also staff a new Artist Resource Center at the SMFA where BFA and Combined Degree students can drop in, look at job boards, take out books, or explore other career resources, similar to the Career Labs in Dowling Hall.
Career Conversations
Sullivan highlights a general tendency among Tufts students to compare themselves to their peers and think everyone has it all figured out. “There’s a sense of relief once they meet with an advisor or a fellow or attend an event and realize that the reality is everyone’s timeline and career path is unique.”
Sullivan’s advice to parents and families: “Talk with your student about your own career path and remind them about Tufts Career Center resources and events!”
Did you know...Tufts offers free career advising for life?! Graduating students can stay connected with the Career Center the summer after graduation and then transfer to the Alumni Office Career Services advisers.
