I’m a senior communications student and as graduation approaches, my career goals are coming into sharper focus. My plan is to continue building my business and portfolio during the year following graduation to strengthen  my skills so I’m prepared to pursue a Master of Science in Marketing. I know why I’m taking this route: I want to step into grad school ready, with confidence, clear direction, and momentum from what I’ve learned. 

Career planning isn’t something I left for the last minute; it has grown alongside me with every experience I’ve had at Loyola. At first, I wondered if online learning could really prepare me for bold plans after graduation. But it turns out, Loyola’s digital platforms have been invaluable: Handshake allowed me to browse a wide range of internship opportunities and explore career resources I might not have found otherwise. 

When it comes to resume building and cover letter writing, I learned most of these skills through my Online Adult Learning, Professional Writing, and Communication Writing courses, where instructors broke down the essentials and gave practical, actionable advice. These experiences gave me the foundation I needed to start preparing career documents with confidence. Afterward, platforms like LinkedIn opened doors to new professional connections and expanded my sense of what’s possible beyond my coursework. 

It’s easy to underestimate how online classes can spark real growth. The opportunity to network with classmates, sharing ideas, challenges, and victories helped me learn how to build connections across both the classroom and the world. 

Loyola’s approach has shown me that effective communication doesn’t depend on physical proximity; it thrives in spaces built on respect, curiosity, and shared purpose. Some of the most influential coursework showed me how my skills translate beyond just grades and assignments. 

Professional Writing taught me to craft proposals that persuade with both facts and feeling which is a skill I’ll use whether I’m marketing a new idea, pitching myself to potential clients, or advocating for a cause. Layout and Design sharpened my visual communication skills, showing me how color, composition, and clarity can make a message truly resonate. Mentorship and encouragement from Loyola’s professors and advisors have made a lasting impact as well.

Many are active in the field as writers, strategists, and creatives whose lived experience inspired me to imagine new possibilities for myself. Even when I faced challenges completing most courses online, the support was always there. They emphasized adaptability and self-advocacy, showing that staying connected, asking for help, and being proactive can turn virtual struggles into meaningful growth. 

The Jesuit value of cura personalis, care for the whole person which reminds me that personal development matters just as much as professional advancement. Reflecting on my journey, I realize every article I write for The Maroon, each class project, and career workshop has brought me closer to my goals both personally and professionally. I’ve learned that online learning calls for self-motivation, strong time management, and embracing feedback. These skills translate directly to the workplace and to life after Loyola, making me feel more prepared for future challenges. 

For fellow online students wondering about the future, my advice is simple: use every resource, seek out mentors, and embrace the chance to grow, even from a distance. Career planning doesn’t happen all at once. It’s step-by-step, built from experiences, mistakes, and small wins. Make a habit of reflecting on progress, not just results, and trust that your story is unfolding in its own right time. 

Loyola Online isn’t just a setting but it’s the supportive community that made my future possible. I’ve learned to keep showing up for myself, keep refining my skills, and keep connecting with people who care. That’s how I know I’m ready for what’s next, ready for grad school, ready for my business, and ready to use communication as my calling wherever it can make a difference.