Day in the life of a CoLAB Student

My name is Jimmy Tran, and I am currently a senior at George Mason University, eagerly anticipating graduation during the spring of 2022. I am studying information technology with a concentration in web application development. In addition, I have been a Campus Ambassador for the Greater Washington Partnership’s Capital CoLAB Digital Tech Credential program at George Mason University since September 2020. As a Campus Ambassador, I have had great opportunities to learn more about the program, and I’d like to share a few takeaways with you! 

The Greater Washington Partnership is comprised of civic-minded CEOs and business leaders drawing from some of the largest employers in the Capital Region, from Baltimore to Richmond. The tie between them all is a commitment to making the Capital Region the best place to live, work, and thrive. As the Partnership’s talent and skills arm, the Capital CoLAB’s mission is to build the region’s diverse digital tech ecosystem by partnering with employers and educators to build industry-aligned digital tech pathways that ensure inclusive growth. The Digital Tech Credential is CoLAB’s signature program geared at college and university students through a selection of courses that you can take at your university. And, upon completion of the courses, students gain a credential that signifies to employers that they are equipped with relevant skills to excel in digital tech and tech adjacent careers. The Digital Tech Credential empowers students of all backgrounds and majors to thrive in the fast-paced digital economy. Furthermore, students can access valuable professional development opportunities, exclusive events, and access to top employers. 

Personally, being a Campus Ambassador has helped me hone a variety of skills sets that I can use in my professional life. I have learned how to effectively market to a target audience of my peers and impactfully tell the story of what CoLAB’s DTC program means for students like me. I have also been able to provide insight and help the CoLAB team develop exciting and meaningful content during their annual Credential Month. This month-long series of events, held every April, connects DTC students with employers and other thought leaders from across the Capital Region. The CoLAB also hosts an annual career fair, a good forum for students to practice their interview skills and learn about the various roles they can expect to see in the job market. This year’s fair will be on September 30 from 11 AM – 2 PM EST! So make sure to sign up today!  

I’ve enjoyed being able to help craft some of these fantastic events as I know how important they are to my peers and fellow DTC community members. 

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons Capital Region college students should look into joining the CoLAB community. Whether it’s pursuing the credential or gaining access to fantastic events and networking opportunities, I feel like this is something a student at one of the partner universities would value. On top of all that, the program is free! 

Overall, my time as a Campus Ambassador has taught me to feel more confident in my communication and marketing skills. In addition, the Digital Tech Credential program has helped me gain more knowledge and insights when looking for internships and jobs. Case in point, through my affiliation with the DTC program, I had the opportunity to apply for an internship with Stanley Black & Decker and interview with them. 

For any Capital Region college students reading this, I encourage you to visit CoLAB’s site to learn more about the program and consider joining the community!