In fall 2016, Walsh University, after being awarded an NSF-STEM grant, implemented a revised curriculum for chemistry majors which included a new Chemistry Career Seminar (CCS) component which threaded progressively through eight semesters of learning. With the goals of intentionally increasing student awareness of chemistry careers and preparing students for the professional world by honing hard and soft skills, the CCS courses included engagements with professional scientists, field trips to labs, upper-level students reporting on internship experiences, writing skills, presentation skills, verbalizing analytical information, leadership and soft skill development, resume building, social media networking and peer mentoring of seniors with first and second-year students. With chemistry as the central professional theme, Walsh chemistry students have been in the CSS pipeline for nearly four years and evidence from student feedback, reflections, surveys and self-reports clearly indicates that the CSS is a valuable asset in their development as professional scientists. During the first two years, the emphasis is on success in the college chemistry curriculum with study skills mentoring, learning to communicate as a scientist and preparing for an internship. The communication component, using tools like concept maps and formative writing, is robust and layered helping chemistry students think and express themselves with clarity and confidence. The second two years transition to a professional focus helping students understand professionalism, soft skills and professional branding. During this presentation, the CSS will be discussed with an emphasis on the structure and tools used through the 4<sup>th</sup> year and the results obtained indicating that including a CSS in any chemistry curriculum would be valuable to and welcomed by chemistry students.

Leadership development and applied soft skills in the Walsh University chemistry curriculum

2019 Spring National Meeting

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