COMPASS

What is COMPASS?

COMPASS (Cultivates Opportunities to Maximize Professionalism and Advance Student Success) is Vanguard University’s School of Business team-based professional development program designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and career readiness.

Events include luncheons, resume workshops, networking, mentorship, personal branding, and real industry skills. These events are available to all students. There is a year-long student competition where each crew aims to attend the most professional development events hosted by Compass. These 4 teams are North, East, South, and West.

My Experience

During my time in COMPASS (Cultivates Opportunities to Maximize Professionalism and Advance Student Success), I consistently engaged in events that pushed me to grow professionally and personally. I attended financial literacy workshops where I learned practical skills from both peers and guest speakers, while also actively participating in the student point-based competition that encouraged consistent involvement and leadership. Through these experiences, I built meaningful relationships with my peers and developed a strong sense of community within the School of Business. I also took advantage of opportunities to connect with professors, which helped me feel more supported and engaged in my academic journey. Overall, COMPASS became a space where I not only gained professional skills, but also strengthened my confidence, network, and sense of belonging.

Skills I've Grown

• Professional etiquette and executive presence in a formal business meal setting

• Networking and relationship-building with peers, faculty, and industry professionals

• Resume development and personal branding strategies

• Verbal communication and confident self-presentation

• Team collaboration and accountability within a competitive, goal-oriented environment

• Time management and prioritization through consistent event participation

• Career readiness and understanding of workplace expectations

• Goal setting and self-discipline through long-term competition involvement

• Mentorship engagement, both receiving and applying guidance

• Critical thinking and application of real-world business concepts

• Adaptability in diverse professional and social settings

• Leadership and initiative by actively engaging in development opportunities

Accomplishments & Events

COMPASS Leadership Summit Conference

I attended the COMPASS (Cultivates Opportunities to Maximize Professionalism and Advance Student Success) Leadership Summit Conference, an all-day experience from 8–5 focused on professional growth beyond the classroom. Throughout the day, I learned from Vanguard alumni, external speakers, and professors on topics such as networking, professionalism, and building a personal brand, gaining practical insights that directly shaped my approach to career readiness.

COMPASS Etiquette Luncheon

I recently had the opportunity to attend an Etiquette Lunch through the Patty Arvielo School of Business and Management, led by Elaine Swann.
Elaine led the session with such insight and intentionality, creating an environment that was quite engaging. It was truly an honor to learn from someone so accomplished and passionate about professional presence and etiquette. I loved hearing from her, especially her modern takes on etiquette.
From proper dining etiquette to the nuances of first impressions, communication, and confidence in professional settings, I walked away with practical skills that I know will serve me well in my future career.
I’m so grateful to have been part of this experience. Opportunities like this are such a gift, and I’m thankful for the chance to continue learning and growing in spaces like these.

COMPASS Cup Champions East Crew 2026

As part of the COMPASS program at Vanguard University, my team—East Crew—was honored to win the COMPASS Cup this year, awarded to the group that collectively attended the most professional development events. This friendly competition not only motivated us to consistently show up and engage in workshops and networking opportunities, but also strengthened our relationships as teammates and peers. Beyond the recognition, the experience pushed us to invest more intentionally in our professional growth and better prepare ourselves for future careers.