A number of university resources can be helpful in job searches and strengthening credentials. Several are highlighted here for the benefit of alumni who are currently in or are considering job searches. We also encourage alumni to list jobs with our Hokie Nation Network and Career Services' Hokies4Hire.

The new online Hokie Nation Network, designed and password protected exclusively for our alumni, students, and members of the faculty and staff, offers job listings and résumé posting. It is completely free and open to alumni, only requiring a quick registration.

Alumni members may post job opportunities at no charge, as well as their résumés. Other employers may post multiple positions for a nominal fee. All are displayed for HNN site members. This is an increasingly valuable resource as more alumni list jobs that they are eager for Hokies to learn about. Visit www.alumni.vt.edu/hnn.

Consult the university's Career Services website at www.career.vt.edu and choose the Alumni link in the upper left. It includes job listings under "Hokies4Hire," plus other free online resources, such as Going Global (with U.S. and international jobs), and various Internet resources for finding jobs. "Career Search" contains contact information for more than 3 million companies, agencies, firms, and associations. Valuable résumé writing and interview advice is available on the Career Services website as well.

Strengthen your academic credentials by taking advantage of the university's Distance Learning online course-work. Some professional certificate programs are available after taking a few courses. Also, several complete graduate programs are taught online. Last year, 800 different university courses were taught online. More than 7,000 students enrolled, representing a 21 percent increase over the previous year. This is an especially valuable resource for working or place-bound alumni. More information about current courses is available at www.dlss.vt.edu.

Networking at alumni chapter events provides yet another opportunity to make valuable professional contacts. More than 100 chapters and clubs across the country hold events for alumni. All alumni receive mail or e-mail invitations to planned events in areas where chapters have been established. More and more alumni are taking advantage of these gatherings to meet and talk with other Hokies face to face, making social and professional contacts.

Hokies are helping fellow alumni learn about job opportunities in a variety of ways. We encourage increased communication during such challenging economic times. And we encourage you to visit sites for the Hokie Nation Network, Career Services, and Distance Learning to learn more about various resources. Virginia Tech is "for life" and can be the key to better career opportunities in your life journey.