What is RISE?
Reflections in Student Employment (RISE)* is a reflection-based initiative designed to help student employees connect their on-campus work with their academic and career goals. Whether you’re a student looking to gain experience and develop your skills or a supervisor aiming to mentor more meaningfully, RISE provides the tools to make student employment a powerful learning experience.
*PennWest’s RISE initiative is based on the University of Iowa GROW model.
For Students
Your student job is more than just a paycheck; it’s a chance to build skills, explore interests, and prepare for your future. RISE helps you reflect on what you’re learning at work and how it connects to your major, classes, goals, and career path.
With RISE, you’ll:
- Have short, meaningful conversations with your supervisor about your learning and growth, and how that relates to your major and career path.
- Identify transferable skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving and professionalism.
- Discover how your campus job supports your academic and professional journey.
Why it matters: When you reflect on your work experience and make connections between your experiences and your future career, you will be better able to articulate your skills and accomplishments on your resume and in an interview. You will be more confident, engaged, and prepared for life after college or in other words, career ready!
For Supervisors
As a supervisor, you play a key role in helping student employees recognize the value of their work. RISE gives you a simple, structured way to support their development without adding a lot to your plate.
With RISE, you’ll:
- Facilitate brief, guided conversations with your student employees.
- Help students connect their job responsibilities to their academic and career goals.
- Foster a workplace culture that values learning, mentorship, and growth.
Why it matters: Supervisors who engage in reflective conversations help students feel more connected, motivated, and career-ready. You will benefit from better-prepared students who contribute more effectively to projects and bring fresh insights to the workplace.
Proof It Works
Students who participate in RISE report:
- Greater awareness of their skills and strengths
- Increased confidence in their career direction
- Stronger relationships with their supervisors
Supervisors say RISE helps them:
- Better understand their students’ goals
- Improve communication and team dynamics
- Create a more meaningful work experience
Get Involved!
Whether you’re a student or a supervisor, RISE is here to support your success.
Interested and ready to get started? Contact Bridgett Nobili at nobili@pennwest.edu.
