Powerful portfolio

The new generation of NMSU graduates might be surprised to learn that printing resumes and cover letters on special paper and mailing packets to employers were once common. Now, job hunters not only rely on electric versions of the documents, but they also curate profiles on business and employment-focused social media platforms long before graduation. 

“As someone who is entering the job market soon, I am really relying heavily on LinkedIn with job searches. Personally, I like that with LinkedIn you can find the companies you are interested in and see if there are any NMSU alumni working there,” says Jessica Beltran ’23, who will earn her MBA in summer 2024. “I also think that with the growing impact that social media has, it can sometimes lead to companies connecting with you and reaching out.”

A new resource on campus can help those profiles shine. 

The Nusenda Professional Headshot Booth takes free photographs that can be used on social media platforms, chat and videoconference applications and email systems. The booth, which became operational in January 2024, is located in Corbett Center Student Union. NMSU students, faculty, staff and visitors to campus are able to use the booth throughout the year. 

“One of the most valuable parts of a college experience is the opportunity to gain professional experience along the way,” says Sara Keller, senior vice president of community engagement with Nusenda Credit Union. “Soft skills like making presentations, email etiquette and presenting oneself professionally are skills that are obtained often in an informal context outside of the classroom. 

“Something like a headshot photo booth provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate some of the professional soft skills they are learning and mastering during their time at NMSU,” she says. “Our hope is that having a professional headshot may give students one more step forward in their pursuit of their professional dreams.” 

To take a free headshot, individuals enter the booth, register and then the video screen gives prompts through the process, takes multiple photos, helps edit the images and emails the results in minutes. 

“We’re grateful for our partnership with Nusenda Credit Union and for their generous financial support of the professional headshot booth,” says Tony Marin ’98 ’08, assistant vice president for Student Affairs. “Nusenda Credit Union recognizes the link and the importance of students being able to have a professional headshot for their digital portfolios, videoconference image and LinkedIn profile. We’re living in a digital age where a professional headshot is often needed to stay competitive for internship and career opportunities.” 

Offices on campus such as the Office of Experiential Learning, Student Success Center and the Nusenda Center for Financial Capability offer numerous resources for career readiness. From career fairs, resume reviews and interview preparation to information panels and networking opportunities, NMSU students have many opportunities to prepare for their next steps. 

Beltran says she appreciates professional visits such as the Executive Speaker Series in the NMSU College of Business. 

“Being able to hear from people in the field and hearing their story is very comforting and eye opening,” Beltran says. “Especially when you start having doubts about where you want to go next. Hearing about their job experiences, their journey, the companies they work for, and any sort of valuable lesson they can offer is important and beneficial.”