College Students

Check Off Steps From College to Career

 

It's easy as a college student to get wrapped up in the here-and-now of your life and studies. But soon, very soon, you'll be out in the job market and you want to be as ready as possible. Take the time to review this list and revise it to fit your interests and your time span in college. Then mark your calendar for this year so you won't forget when you want to do what.

 

For more on finding a career direction, go to Set Your Direction.

 

Note that the stages listed below are just that. They can stand for a year, or a much shorter time, depending on your needs and situation.

Stage 1

  1. Identify the interests, abilities, and values that will determine the best course of study and career for you.
  2. Take a variety of courses to explore both old and new interests.
  3. Visit a career advisor and take a career planning workshop.
  4. Learn good study skills; when you need it, seek help from advisors.
  5. Volunteer or work in an area that interests you.
  6. Join a club or activity in your community or college.

 

Stage 2

  1. List your long-term goals.
  2. Explore career possibilities on the web and in publications.
  3. Decide on a major, or hone your educational aims.
  4. Develop a resume for summer and part-time jobs, and apply.
  5. Create an efficient record-keeping system, including job and volunteer experience, names of people who may help with your career (networking), and college experience closely related to your career plans.
  6. Attend career fairs and workshops; look for information on how to conduct a job search.

 

Stage 3

  1. Narrow your career alternatives.
  2. Gather specific information about jobs or graduate study.
  3. Learn about job interviews through your college career office, and practice interviewing with an advisor.
  4. Co-op, intern, or volunteer in your preferred career area.
  5. Conduct informational interviews: ask people from your preferred career area questions about their work and lives.
  6. Make networking connections with as many helpful people as possible: alumni, mentors, teachers, advisors, connections through family or friends.

 

Stage 4

  1. Update and polish your resume.
  2. Conduct a personal job search that includes telephone inquiries, letters, internet searches, professional organizations, employment agencies. Talk to your networking contacts - and their contacts.
  3. Apply for jobs and follow up on leads and/or apply to graduate programs.
  4. Select work references and ask for letters of recommendation.
  5. Work closely with your college career planning office.
  6. Decide on the best job or graduate study offer.