B.E.A.R. Certification
Engaged and prepared
The Business Engagement And Readiness Certification (B.E.A.R.) is a program open to all undergraduate and graduate business students at Mercer’s Atlanta and Henry County locations. Upon successful completion, the certificate indicates that students have gone beyond classroom studies to demonstrate active involvement in professional development.
Students can earn the certificate by participating in various events related to professional development, career recruitment/networking, and professional engagement. Students are eligible to obtain certification each 12-month period from their original start date at Mercer.
Why earn B.E.A.R. Certification?
When it comes to employees, employers desire initiative and engagement beyond what is required. Eligible certificate events are designed with input from employers. Having this certification will be a valuable addition to your résumé and impressive to employers. Attending the events will increase your exposure to potential employers and experts on hot topics and expand your personal skill set for your career.
How do I get started?
Students will receive a B.E.A.R. Certification Passport to track participation in eligible events. You must obtain 10 points from the day you pick up your passport to be awarded a certificate. Passports are valid for 12 months.
All participants are required to activate their Handshake account and submit a resume for approval (one point). A monthly report will verify each month a list of students that have earned this one point. Additionally, participants are required to attend at least TWO events from Development and at least ONE event from EACH of the Career and Engagement categories. Event attendance will be recorded in Handshake and your personal passport book*. Certificates will be awarded each May during the School of Business’ annual Honors Ceremony; however, we will announce certification as soon as you obtain it so that may list it on your résumé.
To be recognized at Honors Night, B.E.A.R. Certification should be completed and recognized by April 30. Ten points are required from the events below. Events external to Mercer will require proof of attendance. Submission deadlines will be posted.
Some events may have limited seating. If you attend an event not listed above, contact our Center for Career and Professional Development for the School of Business to verify and review awarded points.