LABJ Insider: The Mount Adds New Career Program – Los Angeles Business Journal

Mount Saint Mary’s University in Brentwood announced a partnership with Career Launch last month.

The partnership, which is part of the institution’s (M)POWER plan to bolster student achievement, is designed to prepare its students for life after college with training in practical skills and networking for their careers. The initiative kicked off this semester and includes a seminar course for first-year students that focuses on career skills development and life design.

“Weaving (M)POWER into the first-year seminar reflects the Mount’s deep commitment to ensuring our students start on day one focusing on the skills and tools they will need to thrive in their future career – and their lives,” said Elizabeth Sturgeon, a professor and director of assessment at Mount Saint Mary’s. “Students are encouraged to think about how their education connects to their future, and how they can start building that future now.”

Mount Saint Mary’s reported that nearly two-thirds of its students are the first in their families to attend college. By adding this program, the college aims to help those students navigate an increasingly competitive job market.

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Rats – the expletive and the noun.

Evidently, more Angelenos this year are uttering the word more than they used to. According to Atlanta-based pest control company Orkin, Los Angeles this year has overtaken Chicago as the No. 1 rattiest city in the United States.

Orkin last month released its annual Top 50 Rattiest Cities, based on new rodent service calls recorded between August of last year and this year. According to the company, we have our consistently hospitable weather to thank for making us Titletown in the Rattus Olympics.

“In true Hollywood fashion, Los Angeles has taken center stage,” Orkin said in its announcement. “With year-round warm weather, a booming culinary scene and dense neighborhoods that offer ample access to food and shelter, the City of Angels checks every box for rodent survival. From bustling commercial corridors to hidden alleyways, Los Angeles’ signature blend of glam and grit creates a perfect storm for rodent activity.”