HopkinsNet not as bad as Kane claims
To the Editor:
Sheryl Kane made some good points about the growing difficulties with job searching in her recent editorial, "Planning my future is not working." [Nov. 1, 2001] However, there are a couple of things I'd like to point out about HopkinsNet, the on-line student/alumni network. First, the information contained within the alumni database section of HopkinsNet is exactly the same information that we use in our office and in offices all over the University. We can't really look alumni up to make sure that the last listed employer in their record is still accurate, so often what you see is the best that we have, even if it's wrong. We rely on our alumni to let us know about changes, from moving to a new address to switching employers.
Second, HopkinsNet isn't meant to be a job application service. The whole idea behind the web site is to network, not headhunt - or call potential employers asking for job placement. There are several great web sites that offer job-hunt features, including http://Monster.com, which works with the career centers of every division of the University. The alumni you see listed in the database have agreed to be mentors, counselors, and friends to students looking for advice about what happens after college.
While I'm not an employee of the career center, as a recent grad and someone who completely understands how difficult it can be to find a job, I would be glad to assist anyone who's having trouble with HopkinsNet. Please call me at my office number, 410-516-0363, or e-mail annie@jhu.edu, to either talk about the problem or to schedule an appointment to come in and work with me. Good luck!
Sincerely,
Annie Hoffman
Alumni Coordinator, JHU Alumni Relations
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