The Career Studio at the U of A has kicked off the fall semester with exciting new services, including Virtual Reality Mock Interviews and Employer Career Studio Takeovers, as well as longer hours to help students in their career development. 

Mock Interviews in Virtual Reality 

A major update this semester is Virtual RealityMock Interviews. Students can schedule a Handshake appointment to use a VR headset for immersive interview practice. Mock interviews have always been a cornerstone of the Career Studio's services. With this new program, students can: 

• Complete mock interviews in 21 different languages. 

• Practice for grad school or pre-professional school interviews.

• Prepare with industry-specific interview questions. 

• Receive real-time feedback from an AI-powered interview coach.  

This new tool helps students build confidence and refine their interview skills in a new format. Xavier Taylor Rouse, mechanical engineering major, said, "I really like the VR mock interview experience. It bridges the gap to help me practice my interview skills in a new environment. I enjoy the real-time feedback and responses giving me chances to further practice my interview skills. I would recommend it to other students to further their interview skills."  

Extended Drop-In Hours 

With more demand and a growing team, Career Studio has extended drop-in hours to:  

Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. to noon.  

This is an increase of seven hours per week. As of the end of the fourth week of classes, the Career Studio saw 190 students in fall 2024 and has seen 309 in fall 2025, for a 62% year-over-year growth rate.  

Employer Career Studio Takeovers 

The Career Studio will host two employer takeovers this semester, offering students a chance to connect directly with recruiters and receive resume feedback.  

Westrock Coffee, a Little Rock-based company, will visit the Career Studio on Sept. 25 to offer insight into working and living in Central Arkansas, review students' resumes and answer students' questions about the growing beverage-solutions company.  

Target will visit the Career Studio on Oct. 7 to connect with students about the wide range of opportunities at their company and review students' resumes in a one-on-one setting. 

The Career Studio is located in the CORD. The drop-in service is available to walk alongside students as they navigate their career pathways by reviewing resumes, performing mock interviews, taking professional profile headshots and more. Visit the CORD this week or visit career.uark.edu now to get started.