Getting Started as an Alum

Are you a Grinnell College alum who is looking for support from the CLS? Maybe you are in need of feedback on application materials, or are seeking career-related guidance. Either way, we are here to provide you with resources, feedback, and advising to help you feel confident in your next steps. While the bulk of our time in the CLS is spent with current students, we want to be a resource for you as we are able. You may be wondering about how to get started.

1. Update your Handshake account

Follow the instructions on the Accessing Handshake and the CLS as an Alum resource page to reestablish your Handshake account.

2. Schedule a meeting with your adviser through Handshake

Once Your Handshake Account Is Active:

  • Login to your Handshake account. (See note below)
  • Click on “Career Center” found on the left-hand side of the handshake home screen.
  • Select “Appointments” then “Schedule a New Appointment.”
  • Under “Choose a Category,” navigate to and select “I want to meet with…” If you have an existing connection to one of our career community advisers, please search for them by name. If you are reconnecting with the CLS after a while away, you will first meet with Donna Miller. Please select “I want to meet with…Donna Miller” to schedule your first meeting.
  • Select “Your Adviser by Name” and choose a day and time that works best for your schedule.
  • When prompted to select an “Appointment Medium,” please choose either “Phone” or “Virtual on Handshake.”
  • For assistance, please email us, or call (641) 269-4940

Please note: Do not try to sign in through the “Grinnell College Login.” Choose “Sign in with your email address” and use the updated non-edu address you’ve shared with us.

3. Explore CLS online resources

You will find resources to help guide job searches, edit resumes, cover letters, and personal statements, as well as other helpful considerations to ponder by exploring the other links on our Alumni Resources page. The broader CLS website is equipped with even more industry- and identity-specific content that is accessible to our alums. We encourage you to check out all that the CLS has to offer you through our online resources.

4. Contact the CLS with any questions before your first appointment

Phone: (641) 269-4940

Email: career@grinnell.edu

Address: John Chrystal Center, 1103 Park Street, Grinnell, IA 50112