Student & Other Users'
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the advantage of using Career Network?

You can use Career Network to learn directly from the volunteers' experiences and obtain answers to questions you have about careers, occupations and organization.

Why do alumni volunteer to provide career information through Career Network?

Alumni volunteers are committed to helping students and other Mason alumni learn more about their careers and organizations for which they work.

How do I search Career Network?

Search Career Network. Initially, enter one of the following search fields: keyword, major occupational category and business/industrial category. The Career Network database will provide you the records of volunteers who meet your search criteria.

What is the user name and password?

To access the volunteer's name and contact information, you must contact University Career Services (703-993-2370) or the Alumni Association (703-993-8696) for the userid and password.

How do I contact a Career Network member?

Most students arrange their interviews by phone or email. Others prefer to send an introductory letter and follow up with a phone call. Career Network members indicate the ways they prefer to be contacted. There are practice scripts available on line.

What questions should I ask a Career Network member? How should I prepare?

It is very important to prepare for your session with a Career Network member. We hear from alumni that students could be better prepared if they knew the questions they should ask. To review a list of suggested questions, see the article, "Interviewing Professionals for Career and Job Hunting Information" in Moving On and/or Interviewing Professionals for Career and Job Hunting Information.

Should I send the Career Network member a thank you note?

Yes. Within two to three days of the informational interview, send a brief thank you letter or email (and be sure it is free of errors).