Best of CASE District VII Award
 

Institution: University of California, Davis

Title of entry: Career Center Website for the 21st Century

About this entry: The UC Davis Career Center website redesign was a central part of a larger rebranding effort aimed at modernizing the Career Center’s services to better serve today’s students. The primary audience for the site is UC Davis undergrad and graduate students, with a secondary focus on employers seeking talent. The strategic goal was to simplify the user experience, modernize the platform, and provide students with the tools they need to navigate the job search process in a post-pandemic world.

To achieve this, we conducted extensive research, including 10 student and 10 career staff focus groups, as well as a review of 50 other university career center websites. This research informed key decisions, such as renaming the department from "Internship and Career Center" to the more recognizable "Career Center" and redesigning the site with a student-centered approach. We focused on a polished yet vibrant visual identity, utilizing UC Davis' brand to create a professional but approachable feel.

The website now features modern tools, streamlined access to career resources, and a dedicated microsite for employers. The redesigned site reflects the evolving needs of Gen Z and Gen Alpha students, offering practical resources for career exploration and job hunting.
The impact has been significant: user engagement has increased with a boost in the number of students accessing career resources. The site is now a clear, accessible, and innovative resource for students to successfully launch their careers.