NC State Sustainability Career Development Program
Your Map to Explore Career Opportunities in Sustainability and Make a Real PACKImpact!
Introduction to the NC State Sustainability Career Development Program
Step into an exciting journey with the NC State Sustainability Career Development Program, where you can explore and build your career in sustainability on your own terms. This unique initiative is designed for NC State students like you, offering a flexible, “choose your own adventure” approach to career development. Whether you’re passionate about protecting the planet, creating innovative solutions, or leading change, this program lets you tailor your experiences to match your interests and goals. Dive in and discover the endless opportunities that await you in the world of sustainability!
Program Enrollment
Key Features
- Flexible: tailored to empower all NC State students to explore opportunities in sustainability
- Customizable: ‘choose your own adventure’ approach, students can shape their career journey to align with their interests and experiences
- Designed for Longevity: tailored to be completed over the course of a student’s academic career at NC State
- Achievement-Based: participants accumulate points toward earning the program badge and graduation cord
- Aligned with University Goals: supports NC State’s commitment to fostering sustainable leadership and career pathways, and aligns with Goals 1, 3, 4, and 6 of the Wolfpack 2030 strategic plan
Program Requirements
How the Program Works
The program is built around four core competencies: knowledge building, applied learning, career development, and leadership development. Students can choose to complete the program at one of three levels: bronze, silver, or gold, each requiring a different level of engagement. Rewards for completion include a certificate, a graduation pin, or a graduation cord, depending on the level achieved. Points are earned based on the time spent and the impact of each activity, and these points are used to track progress toward program completion.
| Outcomes | Knowledge | Skills | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activity Type | Knowledge Building | Career Development Leadership Development | Applied Learning |
| Competencies | Global Perspective Ethical Leadership Interdisciplinary | Leadership and Change Management Skills Networking and Relationship-Building Skills | Hands-On Experience Communication and Collaboration Analytical and Problem-Soving Skills |
Program Reward Levels
| Level | Competency Requirements | PACKImpact Points | Reward |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Knowledge Building Applied Learning* Career Development * Leadership Development | 25 points | Certificate of Completion |
| Silver | Knowledge Building* Applied Learning* Career Development* Leadership Development | 50 points | Certificate of Completion Graduation Pin |
| Gold | Knowledge Building* Applied Learning* Career Development* Leadership Development* | 75 points | Certificate of Completion Graduation Pin Graduation Cord |
How can I get involved?
Enrollment will reopen in the Fall 2025 semester. Please stay tuned for updates!
FAQ
Who can participate in the NC State Sustainability Career Development program?
Any currently enrolled NC State student interested in sustainability, regardless of major, can participate. The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.
How much time do I need to commit to the program?
The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to decide how much time you want to invest. Whether you have a few hours a week or more, there are opportunities to engage at your own pace.
Can I participate if I don’t have previous experience in sustainability?
Absolutely! This program is designed for students at all levels, whether you’re new to sustainability or already have experience. We provide resources to help you grow, regardless of where you’re starting from.
Can I earn academic credit for participating?
This program is not for academic credit, but some experiences, such as internships or field projects, may qualify for course credit depending on your department’s requirements.
Can an activity count more than once for the program?
Each activity can be counted for points up to two times per semester. For example, volunteering with Zero Waste Wolves can earn points twice in one semester. To continue earning points for volunteering, you must participate in a different volunteer event that given semester.
I am a sophomore, junior, senior, or second-year+ graduate student. Can I earn retroactive credits for past activities?
Yes, you can submit past activities for points. These activities will be reviewed for approval. This option is only available through Spring 2026, so be sure to submit your past activities before the deadline.
Can I submit activities outside of NC State or not listed on the activities spreadsheet?
Yes, you can submit activities outside of NC State or those not listed on the spreadsheet. Review the points criteria and submit your activity for approval. Eligible activities include internships, research projects, volunteer work, conference and event participation related to sustainability and career development. Activities must align with the program’s learning objectives.
Is there a deadline for submitting activities?
Each Spring, we will review your PACKImpact points to evaluate your progress and award recognition based on your completion level. For Spring 2025, the deadline to submit activities is April 14th. If you submit an activity or event after this deadline, it may still be reviewed, but we cannot guarantee it will count toward your points in time for the Celebration of Sustainability.