The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) is transforming how students prepare for their careers with the launch of its Center for Career Development and Success (CCDS) on the La Plata Campus. Opened in spring 2025, the CCDS offers a robust suite of services to equip students for professional success, from paid internships to resume coaching. With a focus on bridging the gap between education and employment, the center aims to connect College of Southern Maryland students with local employers, fostering economic growth in Southern Maryland’s tri-county region.
The CCDS provides access to paid internships, apprenticeships, experiential learning, and networking opportunities with business and community leaders. Recognizing that many College of Southern Maryland graduates stay in the region, the center prioritizes local internship placements.
“According to a national survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), students who participate in paid internships receive more job offers and higher starting salaries than those who do not,” said Dr. Larisa Pfeiffer, executive director of the CCDS. “Internships provide students with valuable professional experience and a network they can leverage, which makes a significant difference when entering the job market”.
The College of Southern Maryland’s CCDS operates through two core strategies: industry engagement and career development. The Industry Engagement Team, led by Director Ralph Critten, collaborates with local businesses to create work-based learning opportunities. “This program provides a great return on the students’ investment,” Critten said. “It connects their classroom learning with real-world experience, helping them determine if their chosen field is right for them and what direction they want to take their career.” Industry Engagement Specialist Selorm Agbley added, “There’s something great happening for students here in Southern Maryland, and it’s happening with work-based learning at the College of Southern Maryland.”
Career development, the second pillar, is guided by Dr. Yvette Motley, the center’s Career Development Specialist. Motley offers strengths-based coaching, live learning sessions, and one-on-one consultations to help students build resumes, prepare for interviews, and refine workplace skills. “We’re investing in our students’ growth, and as we do, the community benefits from the return on that investment,” she said.
Early success stories highlight the CCDS’s impact. Jaelin Jackson, a McDonough High School graduate who earned a cybersecurity degree from the College of Southern Maryland in May, secured an internship at SMECO. “If CSM didn’t give me the opportunity to gain experience, I wouldn’t have felt prepared for an internship or a new career,” Jackson said.
Dr. Yolanda Wilson, president of the College of Southern Maryland, emphasized the center’s role in the college’s strategic plan. “Preparing for a professional career means building skills that go beyond the classroom,” she said. “Our goal is always to create opportunities for students to grow and succeed, and this Center provides real-world preparation that connects students to meaningful career opportunities.”
Students can explore CCDS services at www.csmd.edu/wbl/students, while employers interested in partnering can schedule meetings at www.csmd.edu/wbl/employers. As the College of Southern Maryland continues to serve Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, the CCDS stands as a vital resource for students and businesses alike, strengthening Southern Maryland’s workforce.
