Engagement Menu
A central goal of the first-year experience course is to help you learn about the various services and opportunities available at Miami. There is no shortage of experiences available throughout the academic year.
As part of your first-year experience course, you should identify and engage with one activity listed in each of the following categories and submit a reflection (minimum 250 words) for each one based on your experience. Some experiences are offered one time only while others are offered multiple times; some experiences are in-person while others are offered virtually.
Deadlines for the reflections are staggered throughout the semester and you can choose the experiences that work best for you.
Community and Belonging Options
In-person Engagement Opportunities
Creative Canvas Collective: Paint Night
Wednesday, Aug. 28, 6-8 p.m.
Shriver Center Dolibois Room C
Join us for a creative and inclusive Paint Night hosted by the Miller Center for Student Disability Services. This event is designed to bring students together for a relaxing evening of art, fun, and community-building, regardless of artistic skill level. We aim to create a welcoming environment where everyone can express their creativity and unwind.
Social on the Seal
Thursday, Aug. 29, 4-6 p.m.
Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion, Armstrong Student Center 2030
Join the CSDI for a social at the indoor seal in Armstrong on the second floor. There will be snacks, giveaways, music, and more!
House Warming Party
Thursday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Clinical Health Sciences Building, Room 2002 (Wellness Studio)
As everyone moves into their new homes for the year, the Wellness Studio would like to help you decorate and make your place feel like your own! Come visit, make some friends, eat snacks, and participate in activities that warm up your new space. There will be plant cuttings, positive affirmations, and much more!
Speed Friending
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 6-8 p.m.
Clinical Health Sciences Building, Room 2002 (Wellness Studio)
Transform how you interact with others! (choose one date from below)
Are you ready to elevate your communication skills? You are invited to participate in the Perspectives Program designed for college students like you. In today’s fast-paced world effective communication is more important than ever. Sign up to participate in two 30-minute online modules about developing a mindset and skills essential for constructive dialogue.Then come to practice the skills you’ve learned. When you sign up for a session below, you will receive a link to complete the modules and an invitation to practice navigating conversations across differences.
- Thursday, Oct. 3, 6 p.m., Sign up by Monday, Sept. 24
- Wednesday, Oct. 23, 5:30 p.m., Sign up by Monday, Oct. 14
- Monday, Nov. 4, 6 p.m., Zoom, Sign up by Monday, Oct. 28
National Coming Out Day
Friday, Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Upham Arch and Outdoor Seal
Join the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion and LGBTQ+ student organizations for National Coming Out Day! Stop by to enjoy community, light snacks, and a photo-op with our 'Coming Out Door'. All students are welcome - you do not need to be a member of an LGBTQ+ student org to participate. The more the merrier!
Other CSDI Events
The Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion (CSDI) regularly hosts dynamic and inclusive events celebrating culture, individuality, belonging, and community. Attend any CSDI event listed on their website!
Virtual Engagement Opportunities
Listen to Myaamia Center Podcast
The Myaamia Center podcast covers the history of the relationship between the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma and Miami University, as well as how it has impacted revitalization for the Myaamia Community.
Listen to the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion's Let's Talk! Podcast
The Let's Talk! podcast is hosted by the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion (CSDI) at Miami University. The purpose of the Let's Talk! podcast is to invite diverse student voices to discuss any topic of their choosing. Example topics vary from race, identity, or culture to conversations around dating, navigating a predominantly white institution, or any hot topic of your choosing. Each episode is student-driven and features a CSDI staff member as a co-host. Resources will be shared at the conclusion of each episode.
If you would like to be featured on the Let’s Talk! podcast, sign up now!
Read the Myaamia Community Blog series on Myaamia Removal
2021 was the 175th anniversary of the removal of Myaamia people from their homelands. This year-long series provides a Myaamia perspective on this history.
Complete the Campus Accessibility Scavenger Hunt
This passive program can be completed throughout the semester. The scavenger hunt explores campus access, authentic disability experiences, and educational opportunities for further growth. Participants who provide proof of completing all nine tiles can stop by the Miller Center and receive a prize.
Watch Defiant Lives and Visit the Miller Center
The Miller Center will be streaming Defiant Lives on our TV in the Disability Cultural Center, 304 Shriver Center, or via the libguides Disability Studies video archive during Disability Identity and Culture Month (October). The film reveals how these activists fought to live outside of institutions, challenged the stigmas and negative image of disability portrayed by the media, demanded access to public transportation, and battled to reframe disability rights as a social responsibility relevant to us all.
Career Development Options
In-person Engagement Opportunities
What Can I Do With This Major?
Thursday, Sept. 12, 1-2 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 8, 11 a.m.-Noon
Locations TBD - access the Career Center Calendar of Events for most updated information and to register.
What Can I Do With This Major? workshops are one-hour workshops that explore available resources and teach students how to use this website most effectively. This workshop will involve a short informational presentation and then give students the opportunity to work individually or with a friend to explore the website. Each student will set and share a goal of the next step they would like to take in their major and career exploration. This workshop is a great resource for students who are exploring their major or career. If you are declared Exploratory Studies- this is a time to learn about different major options and what careers can come from each major. If you are declared a major, but unsure of career possibilities- this workshop will show you different career options. All students will learn about ways they can start building their resume and experience in their first semester of college.
Career Fair: First Year Friendly Table
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 1-5 p.m. - Fall Career and Internship Fair
Thursday, Sept. 19, 1-5 p.m. - Fall STEM Career Fair
Millett Hall - There will be a “Career Fair Tour” table after the general check-in. At the table, you will receive a red folder with instructions of how to complete the Career Fair Tour.
The Career Fair Tour is a way for students to learn more about the Career and Internship Fair especially if they are attending for the first time. Students who participate in this event will make several “stops” on the tour: (1.) First Time Friendly Table (2.) Information Table (3.) Elevator Pitch Table (4.) Take a self-guided tour (5.) Career Fair Tour Table. Students can complete the Career Fair Tour in 30-45 minutes.
The Career and Internship Fair is an excellent opportunity for students to network, meet employers, and learn about possibilities for their career. However, many students report that their first time at the Career and Internship Fair is overwhelming and they do not come as prepared as they should have. By participating in the Career Fair Tour, you will experience the Career and Internship Fair without the expectation of speaking with an employer which can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. You will also learn ways to become better prepared for when you do attend seeking an internship or full-time job.
Parallel Plan Workshop
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 25, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Thursday, Nov. 14, 1-2 p.m.
Locations TBD - access the Career Center Calendar of Events for most updated information and to register.
The Parallel Plan Workshop supports students in looking at the bigger picture. What challenges do you want to solve now and post graduation? How do you want to contribute to society? How can you begin working towards this your first semester? After critically thinking about these questions, students will begin to research companies that work towards a similar goal, who does this type of work, and think about how their major or potential major aligns with what they want to accomplish in the future. This workshop is one hour. This is a great opportunity for students to learn about and develop a plan for their major and career. There are tangible steps students should be taking in their first semester to begin preparing and planning. This workshop will start you on those first steps and connect you with resources to continue your research and exploration.
D.I.N.E.
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 6-8 p.m.
Armstrong Student Center Pavilion
The Diversity & Inclusion Networking Event (DINE) is designed to provide an opportunity for students to build relationships with employers who are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. The structure of this event allows for students to gain insight about industries of interests and practices of diversity and inclusion within professional environments. Registration is recommended for this event.
Career Conversations Workshop
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 4-5 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 17, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, November 12, Noon-1 p.m.
CCES office in Armstrong 0052 - access the Career Center Calendar of Events for most updated information and to register.
Career conversations or informational interviews are great ways for students to learn about different career opportunities, what the day-to-day is like in a career, what people love about their careers and challenges. This is also a wonderful way to grow your professional network while at Miami University. Please join us for this one-hour workshop to learn more about the importance of career conversations, how to find someone to have a conversation with, and how to prepare and conduct a career conversation.
Whether you are decided in your major or exploring, career conversations are a great way for you to learn more about career opportunities. People in the field are eager to talk with current students about what skills you should be gaining in college and about their day-to-day in their career. We want you to go into these conversations prepared. This workshop will give you the tools to prepare for these conversations as well as ways to find people to have a conversation with.
Interview for Success Workshops
Various times and locations
Learn the fabric and components of an interview, what is it all about, but also, strategic approach, techniques, and resources, to win your next interview. This workshop is highly recommended for you to attend before a mock interview, internship interview, on-campus employment interview, fraternity/sorority or student organization membership recruitment. It will give you a competitive advantage, as you will learn hands-on on how to build stories to shine in your next interview. Do not assume you know all about the job search process, come and learn about the biggest interview misconceptions.
Register and review dates and times for Interview for Success.
Virtual Engagement Opportunities
View Candid Career videos
The Candid Career videos provide honest career information and career planning help. These are real people speaking from the heart about their career experiences. Candid Career is a great way for students to learn about different career opportunities. One major does not equal one career. This website can support you in seeing multiple career options from people who are actively holding these positions and learn about their day-to-day and career.
Create a Handshake Profile
Handshake serves several purposes. It is the scheduling platform for students to meet with their Career Advisor, and it is a way for employers to engage with students and post about internship and job opportunities. It is important your first semester to build your initial Handshake profile. Miami University has partnerships with employers who are interested in hiring students after their first year. Handshake is also a great way for you to see who Miami’s employer partners are and to begin your research on internship and job opportunities. Creating your Handshake profile is your first step. We then encourage students to update their profile at the end of each semester.
Complete these steps to strengthen your Handshake profile and become familiar with using this resource.
- In addition to uploading your resume to Handshake, fill in the information about your experiences and extracurricular activities or use your resume to populate information for your profile.
- Click the button in the top right corner with your initials, then click “career interests.” Complete each section of this page and remember to “save” at the bottom.
- Click on “Jobs” in the upper left corner and use the search function to find two internships of interest, either for now or in the future.
VMock Virtual AI Platform for Resumes and Interviewing AI Feedback
VMock is a SMART Career Management platform designed to help you create a powerful resume as well as improve your elevator pitch and interviewing skills. VMock is a career preparation and development platform that uses artificial intelligence to assist you in enhancing your professional career tools. It provides personalized feedback and recommendations based on industry best practices and data-driven insights to help improve your career journey.
Resume Module
The SMART Resume Platform gives real-time feedback and suggestions to improve your resume. VMock benchmarks it against 100+ parameters, offering personalized sample suggestions based on your job role.
Resume Option: Review the Resume Resource page and Tips and Templates, create/update your resume, upload your resume into VMock Resume Module to receive AI feedback, and revise your resume. In your summary for the engagement opportunities, include what you learned from the process of resume writing and receiving feedback, what is your “dream resume”, what would you like to add to your resume in the future, and what steps are you going to take to achieve it?
Interview Module
The VMock Interview module is designed to empower you, regardless of where you are in your career journey. VMock delivers instant, personalized, and intelligent guidance, propelling you towards success. The Interview Module is composed of three separate elements: Elevator Pitch, Mock Interview, and SMART Interview.
You can practice virtual interviewing with AI through three interviewing modules:
- Elevator Pitch (general, basic behavioral interview questions),
- Mock Interview (more advanced questions for specific industries), and
- SMART Interview (AI generated interview questions for specific job description, and AI feedback based on student’s responses and resume).
Interview Option: Log-on into the VMock Elevator Pitch Interviewing module record your responses to 5 interview questions of your choice, evaluate received AI feedback. In your summary for the engagement opportunities, include comments on your experience, what went well, what do you need to improve, why do you think it’s important to be a good interviewee, and what is your plan to get better at interviewing skills.
Complete FOCUS 2
Focus 2 is a self-assessment tool that will allow you to learn about yourself and what majors or careers might be a good fit for you. This assessment is offered free of charge. New users can access and create an account for Focus2 from MiamiOH.edu/career (then Explore, Career Assessments, and Focus 2) and use the access code 'redhawks.’ Completion of Focus 2 will take 45 minutes to one hour. We recommend you take the Interest, Personality, Values, and Skills assessments.This is a great resource to learn how your interests, skills, values, and personality align with majors at Miami University and potential careers. Once the assessment(s) are complete you will see a list of Miami majors and potential career opportunities that align with your interests, skills, values, and personality. We encourage you to meet with a Career Advisor after you have taken the Focus2 to further discuss your results.
Complete the Challenge Card Sort
The Challenge Cards are an innovative career development tool. This approach helps students see the bigger picture: the challenges, problems, and opportunities that exist in society, WHile jobs are careers and likely to change, the challenges we are trying to solve remain. The Challenge Cards are a way for you to think outside the box what what a major could lead you to. This is a great place to start learning about different career possibilities as it relates to what you are passionate about. We encourage students to meet with a Career Advisor after completing the Challenge Cards to talk about your results and how they relate to your major and future career possibilities.
Health and Wellness
In-person Engagement Opportunities
M.O.V.E. Outdoor Boot Camp with the Crawfords
Saturday, Sept. 28 and Saturday, Oct. 19
M.O.V.E. stands for Miami and Oxford Value Exercise. This is a unique and fun opportunity to participate in a 45 minute cardio workout led by Rec Group Fitness Instructors with the Crawfords in their backyard (weather permitting). Besides spending time with President and Dr. Crawford, you will also have the opportunity to receive some free “Crawford-Collection” swag (t-shirts, hats, etc.).
Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk
Sunday, Sept. 29, 1 p.m. (Registration begins at 12:30 p.m.)
Uptown (Memorial Park)
The Suicide Prevention Team, Student Counseling Service, and Office of Student Wellness are sponsoring a series of events during Suicide Prevention Week beginning with the Out of the Darkness/5K Oxford-Miami University Walk. Form a team or come alone - all are welcome! The Out of the Darkness Community Walk is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support. It unites our communities and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental health conditions have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about. For more information, contact Jennifer Young, Ph.D., Student Counseling Service and Co-chair, Suicide Prevention Team. Check out the SCS website for additional information.
Dog Therapy
Weekly drop-in dog therapy on Mondays, 2-3 p.m., Tuesdays, 1-2 p.m., and Thursdays, 3-4 p.m.
Wellness Studio, Clinical Health Sciences and Wellness building
Research suggests that having an opportunity to interact with a therapy dog provides a calm and centering experience. Meeting with a therapy dog offers a chance for connection, pets, snuggles, and conversation. The Student Counseling Services is happy to offer weekly dog therapy three times a week with three different therapy dogs. Students may drop by anytime during the hour, no need to check in or register, and enjoy time with the therapy dog and their handler.
Wellness Studio
The Wellness Studio is located in room 2002 of the Clinical Health Science and Wellness Building. The Wellness Studio provides space to relax and unwind, gain skills, and be part of a community. Programming includes Mindful Movement with Oxford Community Yoga, Nutrition and Cooking Classes, Decompressing and Donuts, Weekly Mental Health Workshops, Drop-in Wellness Hours, and much more! For up-to-date programming information, follow the Wellness Studio on instagram @MiamiOH_OSW.
Virtual Engagement Opportunities
Wellness Modules Part 2
You will be invited to complete a Part 2 section of the wellness modules AlcoholEdu for College and Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates. Although Part 1 is required, Part 2 is optional. The second part of these modules takes about 5 minutes to complete and will ask follow up questions to the content learned in Part 1. You will receive an email with your invitation.
Check Out a Wellness Kit from King Library
Check out one of the six available Health and Wellness Kits from King Library. The kits contain technology to help you find focus, renew energy or experience calm. The Focus Kits feature a Muse headband and sensory gel maze, the Energy Kits include a Happy Light and bubble fidget popper, and the Calm Kits contain a sound therapy machine and a weighted blanket or wrap. Kits can be checked out for up to seven days and are available for checkout from the King Library first floor Circulation desk anytime the library is open (hours). Interested Miamians can check which kits are available ahead of time using the Libraries’ online catalog.
Use Miami’s Wellness Navigator tool
It’s important to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional health as you navigate university life. Miami University offers a variety of resources to support your well-being. The Wellness Navigator tool will help you select which resources best fit your needs.
Engage with the Financial Wellness Center
Designed to be similar to other Student Wellness platforms, this series of educational playlists helps students build their own financial knowledge and be prepared for the future. Topics range from basic competencies such as budgeting, banking, taxes, and credit cards to more detailed topics such as understanding and managing personal credit, making sound financial decisions in the career world, and saving for the long term.
Welltrack Boost
Take charge of your mental health and step into your best self! Welltrack Boost is a free digital resource that provides students with self-help tools to manage their mental health and well-being. The tool can help students address issues such as depression and anxiety, recognize patterns and triggers, and reinforce healthy habits.
Welltrack Boost empowers students to take control of their mental health on their own terms by guiding them through assessments, wellness modules, mood tracking, and problem-solving skills. The tool is available at any time whenever students feel motivated, concerned, or curious about their mental health. The app includes a crisis support feature for immediate assistance when needed.
>Students can access Welltrack Boost with their Miami email address at Welltrack-Boost.com.
Attend an Office of Student Wellness virtual workshop
A wellness virtual workshop is a 20-30 minute live webinar focused on a specific mental health-related topic presented by a Student Wellness staff member.
Campus Involvement Options
In-person Engagement Opportunities
Attend a Miami University athletic event
Students can access athletic events for free with your ID card. Find a game, a match, a competition and cheer on our RedHawks!
Attend a creative arts production, concert, or visit an exhibit
The Miami University Calendar features events that are available to our community. You can search the calendar and find a production, concert, lecture, or exhibit.
Go to a Late Night Miami Program
Miami Activities and Programming (MAP) hosts events for students every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. There is something for everyone and lots of things to do.
Attend a FOCUS event on Artificial Intelligence
Miami selects a topic each year as a focus for conversations, lectures, initiatives, and events. This year the focus is on Artificial Intelligence. Check out the focus website to find more information and events to attend.
Attend a student organization meeting
Get involved on campus through one of Miami’s many student organizations. All sorts of options exist from groups that are focused on an academic topic, a hobby or interest, a passion area, etc. Check out the HUB and attend a student org meeting that works for you.