Scott Cousino serves as a coordinator in the Office of Engineering Professional Practice where he provides support and opportunities to students in the areas of professional development and experiential learning. He can often be found in the classroom giving presentations and leading workshops geared to help students become proactive in seeking internships and co-ops and thinking about their career aspirations beyond the University of Tennessee.
“My hope is to make students feel supported and empowered in their career journey,” said Cousino. “There are so many great and accessible resources at UT for students to grow professionally, and we want to make sure they get connected.”
In his role, Cousino meets one on one with students to provide support with resume and cover letter writing, searching for internships, co-ops, and jobs, mock interviewing, connecting with employers, and preparing for life after UT. He also helps the Office of Engineering Professional Practice coordinate the Engineering Expos and other career related events.
Cousino’s best advice for incoming students is to get involved early.
“College is the best time to try new things and figure out what you want to do,” he said. “Completing an internship or co-op, doing research, or joining a student organization are great ways to explore and figure out what you are passionate about. I encourage students to visit our office frequently and attend our events because we provide opportunities for students to get engaged and shape their professional development.”
The Tennessee Engineering Network
Professional development opportunities in TCE are reaching new levels for students as the Office of Engineering Professional Practice unveils the new Tennessee Engineering Network, which is an employer partnership program that will provide more events and opportunities for students and employers to connect over co-op, internship, and full-time employment opportunities.
“Our team has been hard at work and is excited to launch this program since it will make a large impact for our students, employer partners, and the college,” said Cousino. “It will translate to more employer info sessions, on-campus interviews, more positions being posted for students, and increased employer engagement at the Engineering Expos and other events.
Cousino joined the team nearly a year ago after spending two years working as the engineering career coach in the UT Center for Career Development and Academic Exploration. Prior to that, he held positions in undergraduate admissions and athletics at Central Michigan University and Syracuse University.
Cousino is originally from Clarkston, Michigan and attended Central Michigan University for his undergraduate and the University of Tennessee for his master’s degree. He competed as a student-athlete at both institutions running the 800 for the track team. He and his wife, Gabriella, met at UT and reside in Knoxville.