In May, I was a recent college graduate, job searching wherever I could, working part time in retail. Now, six months later, I’m working a job I love in New York City. So how did I do it?
Through my unconventional but very fulfilling journey through my undergraduate degree and subsequent job search, here’s three key things I learned about how to successfully prepare yourself for the workforce and a career that you’ll love.
Work as much as possible while you’re in school. While it might be appealing to just go to class, do homework, and relax in the evening and on the weekend, having a job throughout your time in college can really give you a competitive edge. It’s an easy way to prove to future employers that you can manage your time, hold onto a job, and balance your priorities.
Get an internship. I cannot stress enough how important an internship is during college, especially your senior year. You wouldn’t believe the amount of internships that can lead to a career, whether the internship turns into a paid position, your internship employer recommends you to another company, or eventually a recruiter or hiring manager sees that internship on your resume and decides to hire you. An internship is also a great way to be hands-on with a career or a major before you actually commit to it.
Participate in extra-curricular activities. You might hear this a lot, but it’s important to get as involved as possible in college. Not just to keep yourself busy on the weekends and to make friends, but college activities are great to put on your resume. Even if you’re not getting paid or working a traditional job, being, for example, a tour guide on your college campus or a part of residential life can really show a future employer that you’re experienced and what you can contribute to the workplace.
Work as much as possible while you’re in school. While it might be appealing to just go to class, do homework, and relax in the evening and on the weekend, having a job throughout your time in college can really give you a competitive edge. It’s an easy way to prove to future employers that you can manage your time, hold onto a job, and balance your priorities.
Get an internship. I cannot stress enough how important an internship is during college, especially your senior year. You wouldn’t believe the amount of internships that can lead to a career, whether the internship turns into a paid position, your internship employer recommends you to another company, or eventually a recruiter or hiring manager sees that internship on your resume and decides to hire you. An internship is also a great way to be hands-on with a career or a major before you actually commit to it.
Participate in extra-curricular activities. You might hear this a lot, but it’s important to get as involved as possible in college. Not just to keep yourself busy on the weekends and to make friends, but college activities are great to put on your resume. Even if you’re not getting paid or working a traditional job, being, for example, a tour guide on your college campus or a part of residential life can really show a future employer that you’re experienced and what you can contribute to the workplace.
No comments:
Post a Comment