Professional Excellence best describes the attribute required to succeed in today's world. You will need to have sharp skills, fine-tuned talents, and ongoing personal development; there is no place for mediocrity. It has nothing to do with luck. As the great Margaret Thatcher said, "I wasn't lucky. I deserved it."

By taking charge of your personal career development you assume total responsibility for orchestrating your future career success, by preparing yourself today. Your mission is to be the architect of your career path. It is not enough to just master skills, abilities, and qualifications. You must master the art of self-marketing--selling yourself to prospective buyers. Remember, you are both the salesperson and the product, competing against others who are also being carefully packaged and marketed.

There are many stages of career development and this guide is designed to assist at whatever stage you are in (e.g., college student, new graduate, or career transition). The degree of success you will experience in life is directly proportionate to the investment you make in yourself. Please use this guide as you professionally prepare for your career now and for the future. If you need additional assistance, please contact the Career Services Office, Center for Professional Excellence, Elmhurst College at 630.617.3190.

Peggy Killian
Director, Career Services Office
Center for Professional Excellence