To better assist you, we ask that you complete, in order, the following five assignments before attending your MBA Orientation. These assignments are required only for the One-Year and Two-Year Program students. JD/MBA, ArchMBA, MD/MBA students are not required to complete them. After completing each assignment, upload it as a Word document in the Ziff eCareer Center. You will need to register online at www.ziffecareercenter.com and complete your profile as a precursor to uploading your assignments.

Uploading a document:
• Click on the “Documents” tab.
• Click on the “Add New” button.
• Name the assignment as appropriate in the “Labels” text box.
• Choose “Completed Tasks” as your “Document Type.”
• Click “submit” button.

ASSIGNMENTS:
1. Upload your résumé Ziff format (PDF) (MS Word) to www.ziffecareercenter.com for editing. Upload Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2009
Your résumé will be e-mailed to you with edits. Name your document in the following format: “last name, first initial, ZiffPrimary”. Example: RobertsonMZiffPrimary.

2. Summary of Professional Intent. Upload Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2009
This summary will help your advisor learn more about what you bring to your MBA program and what you hope to gain from the experience as well as provide a demonstration of your goal setting, self-presentation, and written communication skills, all essential to success in business.

Understanding your strengths and interests will help you be more successful in your internship and job search. Being able to clearly articulate them is essential for success in the career search process.

Read the instructions carefully and answer the 11 questions on the form. Upload the completed form (PDF) (MS Word) to www.ziffecareercenter.com. Name your document: Summary of Professional Intent.

3. Informational Interview. Upload Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2009
Networking is one of the most important career development and management skills you can master and will be invaluable in your search for an internship or full-time opportunity. By using contacts you already have and developing new contacts, you will position yourself to gain valuable information and support in your selected functional field about the companies you are most interested in.

Your assignment is to meet with a business networking contact, preferably in your functional area of interest and conduct an informational interview.

You should speak with someone who is an experienced professional, and who can provide you with perspectives based on experience and the breadth and depth of his or her knowledge and skills. This interview can be done in person or over the telephone, but establish a mutually agreeable time to speak with your contact a couple of days prior to allow for possible and unexpected schedule changes. Be respectful of the demands on this person’s time.

Have your questions prepared and take notes for further discussion or action. Record the details of your conversation with your contact on the networking matrix. You will be assessed on your interview preparation skills. Upon completion, upload your networking matrix (PDF) (MS Word) to www.ziffecareercenter.com. Name your document “Informational Interview.”

4. CareerLeader Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2009
This is a comprehensive career assessment tool based on over 20 years of scientific research developed especially for MBAs. CareerLeader measures your interests, your abilities, and what you find most motivating in work. This will assist you in determining your career path. Your advisor will be able to go over the results of your assessment with you.

5. InterviewStream Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2009
This assignment will require you to record a practice interview from any computer with a webcam using the Web-based software. This can be done off site or at the Ziff Center, using the InterviewStream kiosk. You may schedule your kiosk appointment by calling the Ziff Center at 305-284-6905. Once your practice interview is complete, your advisor will have access to it. The advisor will be able to view the interview and provide you with constructive feedback on your performance. You will be assessed on your interviewing skills.

Thank you for your participation. Your advisor will review your assignments and go over the results with you individually when you schedule your advising appointment. More information on your individual advising appointment will be forthcoming. We look forward to seeing you in the fall. If you have any questions, please contact Lucia Ruales at 305-284-6905 or lruales@miami.edu.