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Closeup: Exploring Career Paths

Students shadow alumni on the job through externship program

Weinberg junior Jennifer Zhan (left) shadows alumna Ani Schmidt on the job at the Chicago History Museum in April. Schmidt, a 2008 Northwestern graduate, is public programs coordinator at the museum. Zhan’s visit was part of Northwestern’s annual externship program called NEXT. As part of the program, Northwestern students spend a day observing the work of alumni to gain insight into different industries and career paths. More than 400 students were matched with alumni hosts this year. NEXT is co-hosted by Northwestern Career Advancement and the Northwestern Alumni Association. Photo by Jim Prisching