I’m heading home, and my brain is buzzing from the conversations I’ve had today. In this episode of the Commute Chronicles, I’m peeling back the curtain on the "Hidden Curriculum" of success, the things they don't always teach you in the classroom but are essential for the workplace.

One of my appointments today was with a Psychology major looking toward grad school. We discussed a major pillar of Career Adaptability: Curiosity. It’s not just about picking a job; it’s about investigating the lifestyle and the educational requirements that fit your "Why."

While many are familiar with the S.T.A.R. method, I introduced a student to my evolved version: the C.A.R.D. Framework. This is how you stop being a "candidate" and start being the "solution."

• C - Challenge: What was the problem, and more importantly, what changes did you implement to fix it? Show them you can identify problems.

• A - Action: What did you specifically do? This is where you demonstrate your future value to an employer. Show them you are a doer.

• R - Results: What was the tangible outcome? Numbers, percentages, or cultural shifts, give them the data. What improved, shifted, or was achieved

• D - Deliverable / Distinction: This is the "Ace up your sleeve." What is the one thing you can deliver that makes you distinct from every other applicant? This is how you leave a lasting impression. Show them you are unique.

I also take a moment to talk about my own "Striving & Developing" process. I’m currently deep in my dissertation (Chapters 1-3). I explain how I use Google Sheets as a reference ledger. This isn't just for academics. I explain how job seekers can use this to create a "Follow-up Engine", knowing exactly when an application closes and when to pounce on that follow-up email.

Efficiency isn't about working harder; it's about planning smarter so you can execute faster.