Student & Alumni Offerings
The Olitsky Program provides strength-based support and resources for students and alumni who may identify with having cognitive and/or emotional differences for reaching their professional goals. Leveraging the strengths of neurodistinct thinkers, the program is intentionally designed to be open and beneficial to all. No diagnosis is required.
The Olitsky Program is designed to provide supplemental support for students and alumni with cognitive and emotional differences during their professional development and throughout their careers. Students and alumni do not need a diagnosis to participate. Supports include:
- 1-on-1 Coaching Sessions
> Schedule via Handshake or email atavares@andrew.cmu.edu - Peer Connect Gatherings
> Virtual: First Thursday of every month from 6:30 - 7:45 p.m.
(August 7, September 4, October 2, November 6, December 4)> In Person: Second Thursday of every month from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
(September 11, October 9, November 13) - Student-Employer Connect Event
> Coming April 2026 - Professional Power Hour
> Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4 - 5 p.m. ET - Recharge Rooms
> Available during in-person career fairs
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What: Develop individualized goals for your career and professional development in a small barrier-free environment With Whom: Meet with Amy Tavares Where: CPDC Advising Center (West Wing, 2nd Floor), virtual via Zoom, or over the phone When: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. ET How: Schedule appointments (Handshake) or email atavares@andrew.cmu.edu BACK TO TOP |
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What is Peer Connect? Peer Connect is a program that offers NEW gatherings for CMU students and alumni to connect, share insights, and support each other’s professional growth. Each session explores different career-related topics and is tailored to participants' interests. Designed with a strengths-based approach, the space values all neurotypes and welcomes all communication styles, learning preferences, and backgrounds. Virtual Gatherings, First Thursday of Month from 6:30 - 7:45 p.m. In-Person Gatherings, Second Thursday of Month from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. What to Expect & Gathering Agendas |
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What: A networking opportunity for students and employers to connect. These events promote one-on-one conversations in a casual, flexible, and reduced-barrier environment. A recharge room (a low-sensory room) and communication badges are available for all attendees. When: Coming April 2026 Where: Rangos Ballroom (CUC) |
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What: 1-hour block of time dedicated to work on professional development tasks (i.e., applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, updating LinkedIn profile, etc.,) alongside a career consultant and your peers With Whom: A CPDC Career Consultant and other CMU students/alumni Audience: Students and Alumni Where: Zoom & CPDC (West Wing, 2nd Floor) When: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 4 - 5 p.m. ET How: Schedule, get a Zoom link, or reserve an in-person spot here BACK TO TOP |
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What: A Recharge Room is a reduced sensory space where any student can go to rest, relax, and refresh during an event. Fidget objects, earplugs, and coloring pages are made available. A staff member may also be available to talk and provide words of encouragement. When: Check this page's calendar to see all of our Recharge Rooms. You can use them before, after, and during an event. Where: Location of the Recharge Room is located in the calendar event. BACK TO TOP |
Student Resources
A Neurodistinct Approach to Standing Out in the Job Market
September 27, 2023
Networking: You've Met Them. Now What?
OCtober 9, 2023