Schools Should Be HR Centers – But Not Like This

The Role of Business Schools as HR Centers

Business schools, and technical schools as well, should primarily function as HR centers, preparing students for the workforce. Their primary role should not only be academic education but also helping students secure employment. However, in their current form, many schools fail to provide the necessary career preparation, leaving graduates unready for the workforce.

The Need for Career-Focused Education

A college education should serve more than just an academic purpose—it should prepare students for a career. The reality is that most students attend college to improve their employment opportunities. Schools should take responsibility for ensuring their graduates are job-ready by focusing on career-specific training and job placement support.

What Schools Should Be Doing

1. Industry Education: Schools should educate students about different industries and career paths to help them make informed decisions about their future.
2. Networking Opportunities: Schools should foster relationships between students and industry professionals through events, mentorship programs, and alumni connections.
3. Internship Assistance: Schools should provide structured internship programs to give students real-world experience before graduation.
4. Skills Training: In addition to academic education, schools should provide hands-on training in practical skills that employers seek.

The Problem With the Current System

Despite these obvious needs, many universities fail to prioritize career readiness. Instead, the focus remains on academic credentials, leaving students with a degree but little practical experience.

The Consequences of Poor Career Preparation

• Lack of Job Readiness: Many graduates enter the workforce without the necessary skills or understanding of industry expectations.
• Unclear Career Paths: Students often graduate without clear direction, struggling to find relevant jobs in their field.
• Underemployment: Many graduates end up in jobs that do not require a degree due to lack of career preparation.

How Schools Can Improve Career Support

1. Expand Career Services: Schools should integrate career services into the core curriculum, making career preparation a priority rather than an afterthought.
2. Enhance Employer Partnerships: Partnering with companies can provide students with better internship and job opportunities.
3. Increase Practical Learning Opportunities: Schools should incorporate real-world projects, case studies, and simulations into their programs.
4. Use Data to Track Employment Outcomes: Schools should analyze where graduates end up working and refine their programs accordingly.

Conclusion

Schools need to embrace their role as HR centers and provide more than just degrees. They must actively prepare students for the workforce by offering career education, networking opportunities, internship support, and practical skills training. Without these crucial elements, students will continue to graduate unprepared for the real world, diminishing the value of their education.