Learning how to apply for opportunities is a critical part of preparing students for life beyond Wellington. As part of JagsConnect programming, upper school students recently participated in a career readiness session led by alumna Liz Kazemi ’17. The workshop focused on navigating applications and writing cover letters, with an emphasis on skills that apply across college planning, internships, and future careers.
The session challenged a common mindset many students carry into the application process: that they are underqualified or that perfection is required to be considered. Kazemi encouraged students to recognize that entry-level roles are designed for learning and growth, not for having every qualification in place. Students were encouraged to shift their mindset from “Am I good enough?” to “How can I clearly communicate my interest, effort, and potential?” She emphasized the importance of transferable skills, reflection, and genuine effort, helping students understand that how they communicate their strengths often matters more than having the “right” experience. Cover letters, she explained, remain an effective way to show understanding of an organization, demonstrate interest in a role, and communicate professionally in a student’s own voice.
Liz Kazemi '17
Students arrived having completed pre-work in which they researched an organization and role and drafted an opening paragraph of a cover letter. During the session, they refined their writing using a clear structure that can be adapted for applications, internships, and outreach emails. They also discussed tone, formatting, and professionalism, learning why clarity and intention stand out more than generic or automated language. The workshop also explored the difference between applying for posted roles and creating opportunities through outreach and informational interviews. The session concluded with dedicated workshop time to build and revise full cover letters with guidance and feedback, reinforcing JagsConnect’s goal of helping students build practical skills that will serve them well beyond their time at Wellington.