CSM Empowers Students for Success Beyond the Classroom

New Center for Career Development and Success Focuses on Professional Support and Driving Connections Between Students, Employers, and Community Leaders

The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) is gearing up to welcome students to the newly opened Center for Career Development and Success (CCDS) on the La Plata Campus this fall. Launched in spring 2025, the CCDS provides students with a comprehensive career support system, offering access to a wide range of services and valuable opportunities, including:

• Paid internships and apprenticeships 
• Experiential learning
• Development of workplace and interpersonal skills 
• Resume and interview preparation
• Networking with local business and community leaders. 

Because a high percentage of CSM students remain in Southern Maryland after graduation, one of the CCDS’s primary objectives is to connect students with local employers for internships. 

“According to a national survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), students who participate in paid internships receive more job offers and higher starting salaries than those who do not,” said Dr. Larisa Pfeiffer, executive director of the Center for Career Development and Success. “Internships provide students with valuable professional experience and a network they can leverage, which makes a significant difference when entering the job market.”

The Center focuses its efforts through a two-pronged approach: industry engagement and career development. After selecting a degree program and registering for classes, students can connect with the Center’s Industry Engagement Team to find internships in their area of study. At the same time, the Career Development Specialist supports students in refining their professional skills and preparing to apply and interview for jobs.

The Industry Engagement Team works with local business and community partners to create opportunities for CSM students through work-based learning. Ralph Critten, Director of Industry Engagement, plays a critical role in connecting students with internships that will prepare them for their careers. 

“This program provides a great return on the students’ investment,” said Critten. “It connects their classroom learning with real-world experience, helping them determine if their chosen field is right for them and what direction they want to take their career.”

Selorm Agbley, Industry Engagement Specialist, is equally enthusiastic about the program’s potential. “There’s something great happening for students here in Southern Maryland, and it's happening with work-based learning at the College of Southern Maryland,” said Agbley. “We have so much talent within the community, but it's just a matter of connecting that talent with opportunities that help launch their careers.” 

Beyond internships, the second pillar of CCDS’s strategy is career development. Dr. Yvette Motley, who recently joined the CCDS as Career Development Specialist, empowers students through strengths-based, student-centered coaching. She offers interactive live learning sessions and one-on-one consultations to help students leverage their strengths and competencies. She also assists with resume building and interview preparation.

“We're investing in our students' growth, and as we do, the community benefits from the return on that investment,” said Motley. 

Several students have already found success through the CCDS. Jaelin Jackson, a McDonough High School graduate who earned a degree in Cybersecurity in May, is now interning at SMECO.

“If CSM didn’t give me the opportunity to gain experience, I wouldn’t have felt prepared for an internship or a new career. I’m extremely grateful to CSM because now I’m familiar with what I’m doing,” said Jackson.

“I will know the Center has been successful when students who’ve participated in paid internships cross the stage at graduation with a degree or certificate and already have a job lined up,” said Pfeiffer. “We will know we’ve succeeded when regional employers have an opening and instinctively turn to CSM to find qualified candidates among our students to fill those positions.”

“The Center for Career Development and Success is a key initiative developed through our strategic plan to support economic mobility for our students,” said Dr. Yolanda Wilson, president of the College of Southern Maryland. “Preparing for a professional career means building skills that go beyond the classroom. Our goal is always to create opportunities for students to grow and succeed, and this Center provides real-world preparation that connects students to meaningful career opportunities.”