SHU Offers Certification in Remote Working
Three modules taught by alumni and faculty show students how to be successful remote workers
With companies eliminating physical offices and relying on virtual platforms for collaboration, Sacred Heart University offers students a certification program that teaches the key skills to working remotely with success.
“We are preparing students for tomorrow’s workforce,” said Keith Hassell, executive director of SHU’s Center for Career & Professional Development. “Remote work has become an increasingly common practice, and employers are looking more and more for those who are comfortable and trained with various virtual platforms.”
The online program provides basic training for anyone looking to gain the skills and abilities to work effectively while remote. The program covers three topics in separate modules: the remote worker, the remote team and the remote leader. Through guided lectures, case studies, assignments and readings, students can complete the course and earn a badge to showcase on résumés and LinkedIn profiles. Students also can learn how to advocate for themselves, communicate with a supervisor, work on a team and lead a team to success while working remotely.
Students can complete the program at their own pace, Hassell said, but most complete it within a week’s time. Each of the program’s three modules includes a short assignment. “It gives students the chance to apply what they just learned,” he said.
When entering the job market, people must be able to stand out, said Hassell, and this certificate will separate SHU students from others.
“I participated in this learning experience because we are entering a new era in which work is done remotely,” said Bianca D’Aguanno ’22, a psychology and criminal justice major in the College of Arts & Sciences. “I wanted to be part of that growth, and I’m happy I was.”
D’Aguanno, 20, of Farmingdale, NY, said she enjoyed the program. “I believe others should participate because most offices are going remote, and we all need to adapt to that remote work style. This program is a great way to make that adjustment,” D’Aguanno said.
“I wanted to participate in this learning experience to get an understanding of the strong interpersonal skills and decision-making abilities that would impact a team member or leader of a project,” said Thomas Nesheiwat ’23, a political science and psychology major in the College of Arts & Sciences.
The 19-year-old from Yonkers, NY, said after completing the program he feels more comfortable and prepared about situations relating to group projects. “I recommend other individuals to participate and follow through with the course modules because it's a great source of knowledge. It helps students with critical thinking, leadership and working to the best of your ability.”
Alumni Brianna Carolan ’16 and Mike Koosa ’01, ’18 are presenters in the online program, as is Janet Bumstead, business management adjunct professor. Carolan is a consulting manager at FactSet Research System, and Koosa is vice president of technology at Mediaspace Solutions. They guide students through the experience and help them master working remotely.
Visit the certification program website for more information.