Harper College

Career Forward Event

Career Forward Event

You're invited!

An evening of inspiration and action designed exclusively for adults looking to restart or refresh their careers.

5:00-7:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 3, 2025 FREE
Wojcik Conference Center at Harper College

(Enter from Roselle Road, Park in Lot 14) Map and Directions
1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine

5:00--7:00 p.m.

Welcome Check-In

Check-in and Welcome Refreshments
Immerse yourself in an evening of informative sessions and one-on-one interactive consultations designed to help you get motivated and empowered to take the next step.
-Reinvigorate your career
-Discover opportunities
-Connect with experts

  man and woman talking

Meet with educational and career resource experts throughout the evening.

- Fast Track Certificates and Degrees
- University Center
- Learning and Career Center in Prospect Heights
- Continuing Professional Education
- Community Education
- Workforce Partnerships
- WIOA/American Job Center: under and unemployed free training options
- Apprenticeships: Learn and Earn
- Advising
- Adult Education, GED prep, ELA

5:30-6:00 p.m. smiling headshot image of kate webster wearing brown jacket and glasses

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: The 3 C's of Redefining Success: Confidence, Clarity, and Connection by Dr. Kate Webster, TEDx speaker and seasoned leadership development facilitator


Many of us have had to reinvent ourselves—whether after a career change, a family shift, or a loss. What once looked like achievement, and success may no longer be feasible. Change is inevitable, but how we define and redefine success in the face of change determines how we move forward. 

In this inspiring and practical keynote, Dr. Kate Webster shares how we can embrace career and life transitions with confidence, clarity, and connection. Using personal stories and lived experiences, she will give you the tools to lead confidently, navigate complexity, and thrive in transition. 

Key learnings and takeaways:

  • Confidence: Build self-awareness to overcome fear and “not good enough” thinking, so you can move forward with courage.
  • Clarity: Navigate complexity and set clear goals that align with your values, even when circumstances keep shifting.
  • Connection: Create networks and support systems that turn feeling stuck into an opportunity to grow and thrive. 
   

ATTEND TWO MINI-SEMINARS: 

6:05-6:35 p.m. academic transcript

Get the Credit You Deserve! Discover the secrets to leveraging your prior education and experience
Uncover the power of utilizing college credit/degrees from another country, Veteran/ACE, past work experience, CLEP and proficiency tests to fast-track your journey to the next level of credentials. Don't miss this opportunity to accelerate your success.

6:40-7:15 p.m. man teaching class

Exploring Your Future: Career Direction Workshop 
Looking for what's next? Uncover career paths that fit your strengths, values and life. Explore how Harper's Areas of Interest seamlessly align with diverse career paths, dive into the FOCUS 2 career assessment tool, and unlock strategies to use your results to work toward a fulfilling and personalized career journey. Your future awaits--let's find it together! 

6:40-7:15 p.m. photo of resume and other papers on clipboard

How to Create an Effective Resume  
Discover the art of showcasing your skills and experience in a way that captivates employers. Learn to tailor your resume to different industries, incorporate impactful keywords and highlight your unique value proposition. 

*If you're a current student or Harper Alum (completed just 2 credit classes in the past), you can get a FREE in-depth cover letter and resume review at any time! Contact the Job Placement and Resource Center to schedule.

5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

 

VISIT One-on-One Interactive Stations:

  man holding a camera

Professional LinkedIn® Photo Headshot Station (5-minute sessions)
Unleash your vibrant personality with a stellar profile photo! Dress to impress and claim your complimentary professional headshot to elevate your LinkedIn presence. We're here to capture your best angle, but remember, skip the all-white attire for maximum impact. Attire suggestions. Sessions are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

  woman shaking a hand

Mock-Interview Station (10-minute walk-up session, as available)
Refine your in-person interview prowess within a secure and encouraging setting. Engage with a seasoned hiring manager who will guide you through common interview questions, polish your abilities and provide instant feedback and valuable insights to boost your readiness.  Walk-up appointments offered. Limited availability. 

  woman typing on computer

Harper College Application Station (10-minute walk-up session, as available)
Experience one-on-one support as a dedicated Harper representative guides you through the application process. Complete the application tonight and enjoy the added perk of waiving the $25 application fee.

Wednesday, December 3
Wojcik Conference Center at Harper College

(Enter from Roselle Road, Park in Lot 14) Map and Directions
1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine

Questions? Call 847.925.6506
Email admissions@harpercollege.edu

Don't miss this opportunity to jumpstart your career and unlock a world of possibilities. Secure your space at Career Forward.

Last Updated: 9/22/25