ACC’s Career Services is here to support you from your first day as a student through graduation and beyond. Whether you’re preparing for your externship or clinical training, building your resume, or starting your job search, Career Services works to empower you with real-world preparation and guidance every step of the way.
As an ACC student/graduate, you have access to a support network that offers career advising, job search assistance, mock interviews, and more — all tailored to your program and professional goals.
Externship vs. Clinical Training: Understanding the Difference
Externships (All Diploma Programs Except VN)
If you're in a diploma program like Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Tech, Dental Assisting, Optical Technician, or Medical Billing, your final step before graduation is an externship.
Here’s what to know:
- Coordinated by Career Services, based on site availability and program needs
- You might interview with the site before starting
- Unpaid, typically 30–40 hours per week
- You'll be evaluated on things like attendance, professionalism, communication, and technical skills
Career Services is here to help you prepare for your externship with resume support, interview coaching, and site-readiness workshops.
Clinical Training (VN & Associate Degree Programs)
Clinical rotations are part of the vocational nursing diploma program as well as all associate degree programs, including:
Key things to know:
- Clinicals are built into your program and supervised by instructors
- Placement is based on program goals
- You may be placed at hospitals, clinics, or long-term care centers
- Health screenings, immunizations, and background checks are often required
You’ll be evaluated on your technical skills, communication, and how well you adapt to a professional healthcare environment.
Personalized Career Support at Every Step
No matter your program, Career Services offers tools and guidance to help you grow professionally.
1-on-1 Advising & Job Prep
- Help with career planning and choosing your path
- Resume and cover letter coaching, even if you have minimal work history
- Interview prep tailored to your field
Mock interviews simulate real-world hiring and include feedback on body language, clarity, and confidence.
Getting Ready for Your Site
- Workshops to help you get prepared for externship or clinicals
- Guidance with site requirements like drug tests or vaccination records
- Support navigating things like transportation or scheduling, in partnership with Student Services
GRIT: The ACC Ready Mindset
Our ACC Ready professional development workshops and support services incorporate the principles of “GRIT” (Growth, Resilience, Instinct, and Tenacity) because big goals require an achievement-driven mindset.
As part of the program, students can earn:
- Digital GRIT badges to showcase on LinkedIn
- Graduation cords and awards to celebrate your achievements
Embodying the GRIT mentality reflects students’ commitments to their personal and professional development; it can also signal a go-getter attitude to potential employers.
Ongoing Support After Graduation
Graduates continue receiving personalized assistance, including:
- Customized job matching based on location and program.
- Partnering with students to cold call new employers to identify potential new location
- Support from a dedicated career specialist, your single point of contact for everything career-related.
Even after graduation, some ACC alumni return as hiring managers to help the next generation get placed!
Common Questions About ACC Career Services
When should I reach out to Career Services?
From day one. Let us know what areas of healthcare interest you (e.g., pediatrics, behavioral health, maternal care, etc.) and we’ll support your goals from the start.
Are workshops optional?
No, they’re built into specific programs. Depending on your program, you’ll receive relevant career training during class time.
Are externship or clinical placements guaranteed?
Although we cannot guarantee jobs or specific externship/clinical placements, we work to help provide resources within our reach to support your growth.
What if I struggle during my externship or clinical rotation?
If issues come up, we’ll work with your externship coordinators to evaluate the situation and explore possible next steps.
What if I don’t have childcare or transportation?
Student Services may be able to help connect you with community resources.
Final Advice for Getting the Most Out of Career Services
- Don’t wait. Visit Career Services early and often, even before you’re ready for your externship.
- Be honest about challenges. Whether it’s transportation or confidence, the team can help, but only if they know what’s going on.
- Use mock interviews and resume help even if you’ve worked before. They’re great refreshers and tailored to your industry.
You’re Not Alone. Connect With Career Services At ACC!
From your first day to your first job — and beyond — ACC Career Services is in your corner. Visit the Career Services page to learn more, or submit a form for more information about what ACC has to offer students and graduates. Whether you’re just starting school or ready to advance your career opportunities, ACC Career Services is here to support you.
