Student Policies
Code of Ethics
The NSM Career Center requires students to act professionally and ethically in all aspects of recruiting and career services. Providing misinformation* during the recruiting process, or failing to follow through with scheduled appointments, interviews, or accepted job offers, may result in the loss of NSM Career Center privileges.
By signing into the HireNSM system, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the policies of the NSM Career Center.
*Misinformation includes, but is not limited to, misrepresenting one's academic major on resumes, job applications, and/or in conversations with employer representatives. Additionally, misinformation includes, but is not limited to, misrepresenting one's work authorization or status in the United States on job applications.
Student Account Registration
The NSM Career Center utilizes a career management system, HireNSM, powered by Symplicity, to help students in the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics develop professionally as they navigate their career journey.
Please note:
- HireNSM access is intended for actively enrolled NSM students.
- Students who are not actively enrolled for a fall and/or spring semester may lose access to HireNSM for that semester.
- Graduating students may continue to have access for one year following graduation.
- NSM Minors do not have access HireNSM, NSM Career Center Events, or Career Counseling services at the NSM Career Center. NSM minors should contact University Career Services for assistance with their career development needs.
Counseling Appointment No-Show Policy
After one no-show for a scheduled appointment (resume review, cover letter review, mock interview, or general career counseling) without notifying the counselor, a student may be soft blocked in HireNSM, which can limit access to services.
A student with two or more no-shows for scheduled appointments without prior notification is subject to being blocked for the remainder of the current academic semester in HireNSM. Notification will be sent, and the student must meet with an NSM Career Center staff member to determine whether access should be reinstated.
Professional Development Events
The NSM Career Center offers professional development programs designed to broaden students' knowledge and strengthen career readiness skills. These events create opportunities to learn, practice, and connect with employers through workshops, networking events, and career fairs.
Resume Review
Resume review is a pre-career fair held before the annual career fair in fall. It is designed to support students in building a targeted and effective resume for internships and full-time opportunities. Students will receive feedback from career professionals and employers.
Prepare4Fair Event
This is essential pre-career fair workshop designed to maximize students' success at the Career Fair. This comprehensive preparation session will equip students with the tools and confidence needed to make a lasting impression on potential employers.
Career Fair
NSM career fairs and recruiting events provide a platform for employers and NSM students to connect with internship, co-op, and full-time opportunities. Students can learn about organizations, roles, and recruiting timelines, while also practicing professional introductions and sharing their qualifications.
Eligibility note: To attend NSM Career Center events, students must be an active NSM student or a recent graduate. This is standard practice for University of Houston colleges that operate their own career centers. If you are not an NSM student, please contact University Career Services or your college’s career center for assistance.
Job Offers
Evaluating Job Offers
Choosing a job offer is a significant step. The NSM Career Center provides resources and guidance to help students evaluate offers so they can make informed decisions aligned with their career goals.
Accepting Job Offers
If a student has accepted a job offer, it is strongly recommended that they discontinue their job search. Many employers consider it unprofessional to accept a position and later decline it in favor of another offer. Reneging can impact employer relationships and may affect future recruiting opportunities for NSM students.
The NSM Career Center can support students throughout the job search process, including application strategy, interviewing, offer evaluation, and decision-making, so students can make the right decision before they commit.
Job Scams
Fraudulent job scams conducted through email, phone calls, and fake job postings have increased nationwide. The NSM Career Center takes fraudulent activity seriously. Students are encouraged to review the University of Houston guidance on recognizing and reporting job scams.
Student Obligations
Students are expected to:
- Fulfill all promises and obligations made during the recruiting process
- Provide accurate information to the NSM Career Center and employers
- Adhere to schedules and deadlines
- Accept offers of employment in good faith
- Notify employers promptly of acceptance or non-acceptance of offers
- Withdraw from recruiting after accepting a job offer
- Interview only with employers and positions of genuine interest, and only when meeting stated eligibility requirements
- Dress and conduct themselves professionally and respectfully at all recruiting events
- Come prepared for career fairs, interviews, and employer events
- Uphold ethical guidelines and represent NSM and the University of Houston professionally