: Department of Horticulture

Horticulture 497; Professional Development Seminar

Class Schedule

Spring, 2008

Date	Topic and Objectives	Presenter
January 17	Introduction to Hort 497, Syllabus and Orientation Begin Self Assessment and Your Future Assignments – Exercises: 1.1-1.3; Exercises 1.4-1.5 Complete review questions Chapter 1 Objectives List the steps involved in the job-search process Explain how to compile a career portfolio Explain the importance of critical thinking Describe how to creatively solve problems Explain how to make decisions Explain the importance of self-assessment Identify how to determine your personality and learning styles Explain the importance of developing personal qualities, a positive attitude, and self-esteem
January 24	Exploring and Networking Assignments – Exercises: 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4; Complete review questions Chapter 2 Objectives Explain the importance of setting goals Describe how to set goals Explain how to research jobs in a traditional way Explain how to research jobs in a nontraditional way Identify how to creatively solve problems Explain how to network
January 31	Exploring Job Searches, Networking and Resumes How Ag Career Services can help!	Mike Gaul Ag Career Services, ISU
February 15	Exam 1 Chapter Reviews; Chapters 1 and 2 with guest lecture topics included on quiz
February 14	Fine Tuning Your Resume Bring your resume to class with you Chapter 3 Objectives Describe the characteristics of a good resume Write a job objective Highlight your experience in your resume Apply action words in your resume Identify how to choose the best resume format Chapter Review – p. 100; and p. 10; peer review of resume
February 21	Panel Discussion – Jim Mason, Country Landscapes; Mike Andresen, ISU Sport Turf Manager; Dan Brabec; Owner Coe.s Floral and Gifts; What do Employers see on your resume and cover letters? Tips for the future!
February 28	Cover Letters and Applications Assignments – Exercises: 4.3 using example ad given in class Chapter 4 Objectives Explain the importance of the cover letter Write an effective cover letter Complete a job application form Explain how to prepare for employment tests
March 6	Preparing for the Interview Assignments – Exercises: 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 Chapter 5 Objectives Explain the purpose and importance of the interview Explain the importance of preparation as a key to success Describe essential factors of the interview process Research likely questions and prepare good answers Describe how to plan a professional image Explain the importance of rehearsing the interview	Terry Lebo; Hamilton Group Search Consultant
March 13	Networking/Transition from College to work Assignments – Exercises: 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 Peer review of cover letter using p.133	Jeff Wendel, Nicol Ausen Iowa Turf Institute
March 27	Portfolios
April 3	The Interview Assignments – Exercises: 6.2, 6.3, 6.4 Chapter 6 Objectives Explain how to relax and overcome fear and anxiety Explain the importance of the first impression Describe how to building rapport and respect Explain how to conduct a successful lunch or dinner interview Describe how to listen and ask thoughtful questions Explain the importance of personal qualities Summarize how to clearly show how your skills will benefit the company Identify what an employer really wants in an employee Describe how to readjust and close an interview
April 10	Exam 2 Chapter Review – p. 184 and p. 18, plus quest speaker questions
April 17	Following up Assignments – Exercises: p. 206 - Case Study Chapter 7 Objectives Describe how to reassess the interview process Explain the importance of follow-up letters, calls, and contacts Write thank-you notes Identify how to clarify expectations and agreements Explain and apply effective negotiation strategies
April 24	Job Success Strategies Assignments – Exercises: 8.1, 8.2; Chapter 8 Case Study p. 236 Chapter 8 Objectives Explain the importance of the first year on the job Describe and apply success strategies and positive habits Summarize how to manage your career Define the best strategies for getting promoted Describe how to prepare for the changing world of work
May 1	Exam 3 Chapter Review – p. 234 and p. 235 Final draft of portfolio due. Portfolios will be ready for pick up from 107 during finals week.
May 5-9	Finals Week

Professional Development Seminar

Horticulture 497

Spring, 2008

Instructor:

Barb Osborn
107 Horticulture Hall
294-5624 office; 450-1920 cell
email: baosborn@iastate.edu

Meeting Time:

Thursday, 11:00-11:50

Meeting Location:

160 Horticulture Hall

Text:

Strategies: Getting and Keeping the Job You Want Sharon K. Ferrett, Irwin Mirror Press, ISBN 0-07-830509-8

Grading:

Exam 1	50 points	February 1
Exam 2	50 points	April 5
Exam 3	75 points	April 26
Weekly Assignments	20 pts/week Total 160
Portfolio	100 points
Total Points for the class	435 points/Grading Straight Percentage

Classroom Decorum:

You should come to class as if you were going to work. I expect you to be on time, prepared to participate in classroom discussions, turn your cell phone to vibrate or mute, and to be awake.

Special Needs:

"Any student who feels s/he may need an accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact me privately to discuss your specific needs. Please contact the Disability Resources Office at 515-294-6624 in room 1076, Student Services Building to coordinate reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities."

Attendance:

Attendance is required for all classes and will be taken at the beginning of the class period. If you enter the classroom after attendance was taken, it is YOUR responsibility to see me after class. Thank you for helping to avoid attendance errors.

Absence:

Attendance is critical for successful completion of the course. Absence from class due to death in the family, serious illness, severe winter weather, or at the discretion of the instructor may be considered valid excuses. If such emergencies occur, contact me before class time or if not possible soon after the missed class. If I cannot be reached by phone or in person regarding the emergency, leave a message on my voice mail on with my office phone or my cell phone. You may also leave a message in person with any of the secretaries in Room 106, Horticulture Hall.

Assignments:

All assignments should be turned in on time and all homework turned in at the beginning or end of the class it was due. 5 pt. dock/day the assignment is late.