In collaboration with the Great Lakes Colleges Association (GLCA), a groundbreaking, new experiential learning program launched to help students explore and enter careers in the technology industry. This unified career center initiative, a collaborative effort among several liberal arts institutions, is designed to empower students by aligning their academic pursuits with practical career opportunities in the fast-growing technology sector.
The “Possible” program offers a comprehensive experience that combines classroom learning with hands-on industry exposure. It aims to demystify the tech industry for students from diverse academic backgrounds, particularly those in liberal arts disciplines. Through this initiative, students can gain a clear understanding of how their skills and interests can be applied in technology roles, broadening their career horizons.
“It was a great program and opportunity for five of our students this summer,” says Matt Stinson, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. “Allegheny prioritized the inclusion of students who are underrepresented in the tech industry; this guided our nomination process to fill our five spots in the program through a GLCA cohort of career centers.”
Launched in summer 2024, Possible sessions were taught by top working industry professionals through virtual instruction. One of the unique aspects of the Possible program is its focus on demonstrating the value of a liberal arts education in the technology industry. The program highlights how critical thinking, creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills—core components of a liberal arts education—are highly valued by employers.
“The Possible Program influenced my career planning by making me realize that I want to get into Product/Project Management post graduation,” says computer science major and Possible program student, Jason Gyamfi ‘25. “Possible exposed me to many different sectors of tech and many successful people in these different sectors. In the end, I felt like I resonated and gravitated towards Product/ Project Management and really hope to expand on it.”
The new program also addresses issues of access and outcomes, particularly for underrepresented groups in the technology industry. By providing resources and support, the program aims to level the playing field and ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to pursue fulfilling careers in tech.
As the tech industry continues to grow and evolve, programs like Possible play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of professionals. The initiative not only equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge, but also fosters a sense of confidence and purpose as they embark on their career journeys.
