Michael Presson
What's helped me stay grounded is always reminding myself why I returned to school in the first place, to build a career that would ultimately give me more quality time with my family.
Adult Learner Events
Get connected!
The Career Center supports adult learners at GVSU by helping them connect to each other and GVSU staff. Adult learner specific events provide ways for adults on campus to find one and other as well as access information about their programs, careers, and more.
Log in to Handshake and click on Events for a complete list of career-related activities and events!
You are also encouraged to join the Adult Learners Student Organization (A.L.S.O.) to connect with fellow adult learners, share experiences, and find support as you navigate life and learning. Designed specifically for adults and those juggling multiple responsibilities while earning their degrees, you are welcome to join whether you're studying online, on a Grand Valley campus, or through a program hosted by a partner institution (such as a community college). Find more information, sign up, and get involved via LakerLink.
Upcoming Events
Adult Learner Events
JCPenney Suit Up - Winter 2026
February 1, 2026 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
All Grand Valley students and alumni are invited to attend a GVSU/JCPenney Suit-Up Event! This event will include options to participate virtually or in-person. In-person: Come to JCPenney at RiverTown...
Careers in Lab Sciences
February 3, 2026 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Join us to explore part-time and full-time job opportunities in the Lab Sciences field! This event provides students the chance to hear from various employers in the Lab Sciences industry. You'll...
Prepare for the Career Fair (City)
February 9, 2026 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Are you preparing for the upcoming Fall GVSU Career and Internship Fair, but not quite sure where to start? The Career Center will be hosting a drop-in event to help you refine your resume, formulate...
Prepare for the Career Fair (Valley)
February 11, 2026 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Are you preparing for the upcoming Fall GVSU Career and Internship Fair, but not quite sure where to start? The Career Center will be hosting a drop-in event to help you refine your resume, formulate...
GVSU Winter 2026 Career and Internship Fair
February 19, 2026 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
The Winter Career & Internship Fair is an excellent place to kick off your job or internship search, or to begin networking with organizations looking to hire Grand Valley students and alumni...
Past Event Resources
Current GVSU Adult Learners
Matt Smith
I'd rather take the risk of trying to enter a new profession and chase a career I'd enjoy than spend my days in a job where I'd forever feel like I could have done more.
Gil Castillo
The more I attended classes and immersed myself around campus, I realized people from all walks of life come were coming together to achieve a common goal of getting an education.
Vanessa Pena
It's about pursing your dreams and making them into reality. It's your life and the time will pass one way or another so do something that you know will make you a better version of yourself.
Catherine Gonzales
I think there are some positives to being an adult learner -- compared to my first undergraduate experience, I have found that I now have much better intrinsic self-motivation, time management, and coping skills when the workload feels overwhelming.