At Southern Virginia University (SVU), we uphold Christian values, academic excellence, and ethical leadership in all aspects of student development, including career and graduate school opportunities. Our recruitment policies ensure that students engage with reputable employers and graduate programs that align with our mission of preparing principled leaders for success in their careers and communities.
- Employers and graduate programs must demonstrate integrity and align with SVU’s commitment to honesty, respect, and ethical leadership in recruitment practices.
- Organizations engaging with students should uphold high moral and ethical standards, avoiding recruitment for industries or roles that conflict with SVU’s values (e.g., companies promoting unethical business practices).
- All employers and programs must comply with equal opportunity and non-discrimination policies, ensuring fair hiring practices regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, or other protected statuses.
- Respectful and professional communication is required in all interactions, whether in-person, virtual, or via written communication.
- Career fair & on-campus recruitment – Employers and schools must register through SVU Career Services and agree to follow SVU’s guidelines for professional engagement.
- Job & internship transparency – Organizations must provide clear job descriptions, compensation details, and expectations to ensure students make informed decisions.
- Graduate school & fellowship programs – Schools must provide accurate information about program benefits, funding, and application processes.
- Internship standards – Internships should provide meaningful learning experiences, structured mentorship, and compliance with Department of Labor internship guidelines.
- Employers should provide reasonable deadlines for job and internship offers, avoiding undue pressure or immediate decision requirements.
- Exploding offers (offers that require a response within 48 hours or include time-sensitive incentives) are strongly discouraged.
- Graduate programs should allow students ample time to compare financial aid packages and scholarship opportunities before making commitments.
- Employers and recruiters may not directly contact students via personal email, phone, or social media unless students have initiated communication.
- Organizations must respect student privacy and comply with SVU’s policies on personal data protection.
- All in-person and virtual recruitment events should maintain a professional and appropriate setting, ensuring safety, inclusivity, and respect.
- SVU will vet all job postings and internship opportunities to ensure they meet ethical and legal employment standards.
- Employers must comply with fair wage and labor laws, particularly for unpaid internships, which should focus on education rather than free labor.
- Students should report any suspicious, fraudulent, or unethical recruitment activity to Career Services.
- SVU provides personalized career coaching, résumé reviews, and job application support to help students navigate employment and graduate school opportunities.
- Faculty and Career Services will work closely with students to ensure they find opportunities that align with their professional goals and personal values.
- Networking events and mentorship programs will be facilitated to connect students with ethical and reputable employers, alumni, and professionals.