TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— Florida A&M University (FAMU) has launched its new Career Foundations Micro-Certificate, giving first-time-in-college (FTIC) students a head start in exploring career options and developing in-demand workplace skills. The initiative fulfills Florida House Bill 1261, which requires public colleges and universities to provide career planning resources to first-year students, ensuring they are better prepared for internships and long-term career success.

The two-task program, led by the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC), began with a soft launch in July for Summer Academy students and rolled out campus-wide in early August. Students must finish a career self-assessment and skill modules to earn the micro-certificate by October 1.

“We designed this certificate to help students see the connection between their first-year experience and the real-world skills they’ll need to secure internships and thrive in today’s workforce,” said Tamara K. Taylor, CPDC director. “By emphasizing skill-building up front, we’re giving students the confidence and direction they need to pursue experiential learning opportunities before their sophomore or junior year.”

The program integrates five key soft skills—communication, strategic thinking, adaptability, AI literacy, and professionalism—identified by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and LinkedIn as among the most sought-after by employers in 2025. Research shows that soft skills are a major factor in early-career success, with a 2024 Forbes report noting that 60% of companies had let go of recent graduates in their first year due to underdeveloped interpersonal or communication skills.

“This program ensures our students understand the value of career preparation from their first semester,” said FAMU Associate Provost for Student Success Jennifer Collins, Ph.D. “We are reinforcing our mission to graduate career-ready leaders, setting our students on a path to success.”

FAMU begins career readiness before students even arrive on campus. Using the FOCUS 2 Career Assessment, the CPDC engages deposited students over the summer to connect their skills and interests with majors offered at FAMU. This early engagement supports retention, on-time graduation, and purposeful career decision-making.

Collaboration across the university—including academic advising, first-year experience instructors, Admissions, New Student Orientation, and Enrollment Management—ensures students are introduced to the micro-certificate and its benefits as soon as they commit to FAMU.

For more information about the Career Foundations micro-certificate, contact the Career and Professional Development Center at cpdcenter@famu.edu

About the Career and Professional Development Center
The Florida A&M University Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) supports students and alumni in achieving their professional goals through comprehensive career services, resources, and experiential learning opportunities. The CPDC offers career assessments, one-on-one coaching, skill development workshops, employer networking events, and internship and job placement support. By partnering with academic units, employers, and community organizations, the CPDC prepares career-ready graduates equipped to thrive in a competitive, global workforce. Learn more at www.cpdcenter.famu.edu.

About the Office of Student Success
The Florida A&M University Office of Student Success provides programs, resources, and support services that empower students to achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. Through academic advising, retention initiatives, learning support, and career readiness programming, the office fosters student engagement and persistence from the first year through graduation. By partnering with campus and community stakeholders, the Office of Student Success ensures every Rattler has the tools and guidance needed to thrive in a competitive, global environment.

Media Contact

Deidre P. Williams
Director of Communications
Office of the Provost
deidre.williams@famu.edu 

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