Iowa State Student Builds Confidence and Career Skills Through CALS Pathways to Innovation and Leadership Micro-Credentials
(Ames, Iowa) – Junior, Ella Peterson is taking part in the CALS Pathways Program by earning entrepreneurial innovator and leader micro-credentials that are helping her gain professional skills and confidence that are shaping her future career.
Peterson’s entrepreneurial background aligned with the goals of the CALS Pathways Program. She first discovered the program after studying abroad in Costa Rica with Amber Anderson and Erin Wilgenbusch, professors at Iowa State University. During that experience, she learned about the Pathways program and the global impact badge, sparking her interest in earning additional credentials.
Micro-credentials are short learning experiences that offer a way to learn a designated set of skills. Employers value these credentials, as they show you have the skills they're looking for, verified by Iowa State University. These digital badges complement your degree and highlight your commitment to your career path.
According to the Pathways website, “[The] program is built for all CALS students and offers short, focused learning experiences known as micro-credentials that help you sharpen the skills employers value most.”
“My favorite credential was the four-minute presentation proficiency,” Peterson said. “I set it up myself, and it really helped me become a stronger public speaker.”
Through these experiences, Peterson said she has gained significant confidence. Peterson said the credentials serve as evidence of initiative and have helped her improve her interviewing skills. Employers frequently express curiosity about the badges and ask how they are earned, giving Peterson the opportunity to discuss her leadership experiences and professional growth.
“These credentials have put me ahead as an ambitious worker,” she said. “They’ve given me something concrete to show what I’ve done.”
Peterson encourages other students to take advantage of the opportunity. She recommends starting with a consultation through the Pathways program and attending workshops, mock interviews and end-of-semester showcases.
“If you want to do it, there is every opportunity to do so,” Peterson said. “It’s free, and you’re only benefiting yourself. It can open doors to scholarships and help you career-wise.”
The skills gained through the micro-credentials directly connect to Peterson’s agricultural communication degree, strengthening her abilities in public speaking, leadership, reflection and professional branding, all very important components of a successful career in agriculture communication.
By combining her entrepreneurial spirit with professional development opportunities in Ames, Peterson is building a strong foundation for her future and demonstrating how students can truly “start something” that sets them apart.
Based in Iowa State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the Pathways program provides opportunities for students to maximize their undergraduate experience. The program focuses on bridging the gap between classroom education and future employment through micro-credentials in areas like building confidence, public speaking, and leadership. By integrating with experiential learning opportunities like Start Something CALS, the program empowers students to build a professional portfolio and earn digital badges that give them a competitive edge in the job market.
Check out the CALS Pathway website below!