It wasn’t too long ago that we were clueless high school freshman. We were attempting to navigate ourselves while managing classes, extracurricular activities, friendships, and most importantly, selecting a college. Fast forward eight or nine years later; and now it’s time to begin our senior year of college. While some of us have plans that are set in stone, others (including me) don’t possess a crystal ball. There are various factors for these reasons including: switching our major and/or minor several times, financial concerns, and a change of heart. According to a Chicago Tribune Column: Recent College grads now more likely to have a job, opportunity author Gail Marks Jarvis explains that over eighty-six percent of those with a college degree are able to find their dream job between the ages of twenty-five and thirty-two. There’s no rush with attempting to discover your ultimate dream career path, but planning ahead before graduation doesn’t hurt either. With these tips, you’ll hopefully be prepared to transition from the womb of campus to the big kid world.
Update Your Resume:
Having a well-written resume is one of the many crucial aspects when putting yourself on the job market. It’s essential to ensure that you list all of your involvements: from campus activities to internships, leadership involvement, and part-time jobs. Even the most underwhelming experience can assist in setting you apart from other potential candidates.
Utilize the Career Center:
If your “busy” schedule hasn’t allowed for you to make a visit, now more than ever is the best time to go. The description is in the title. The staff is there to assist with just about everything involving your life after graduation including researching jobs that match your field and interests, helping you ace the interview process, revising your resume and cover letter, and answering any questions about the career hunt. According to Tyler Omoth’s article, How to Use Your Senior Year to Prepare to Life After College, he explains the importance of the campus career center stating that, “The career center is your hub for information on careers, help with your resume, and even what career path might be best for you”.
Although it’s tempting to watch the newest episode of your favorite Netflix series over taking time to go to the career center, you have all the time in the world to learn the mystery of who went missing in the wormhole.
“Sterilize” those Social Media Accounts:
Remember that picture you posted on Instagram of your sorority sister doing body shots off of you? Or, that Facebook picture showing off your first tattoo in a questionable area? Regardless if these scenarios relate to you, make sure you are extremely cautious as to what you put on the web. Delete anything that you don’t want your future boss to see. According to the article, 10 Things to Do Senior Year of College to Set Yourself Up For a Career Success author, John Simmons, explains how social media plays an important role with companies when searching for desirable employees. A survey conducted by the Society for Human Resources Management disclosed that over eighty-four percent of employers access it (social media), which can make or break the hiring status. Remember, once it’s posted, anyone can see it.
Make a Linkedin Account:
Linkedin is like Facebook, but for networking with other companies. This fantastic website allows you to build your personal profile, search for careers related to your major, and even connect with college alum who are working in your interest of field. You can also apply for your future career in just one click.
Start Budgeting:
You may be tempted to spend your Saturdays chugging beers with your roommate(s), or going out to eat at the trendiest restaurant, but at the same time, you’re in the midst of apartment searching, and/or paying off student debt. According to a survey conducted by the Wells Fargo Retirement report, over forty-two percent of those who fell into the millennial category said that college debt was one of the causes of their post-graduation stress. So before you head to the local liquor store, or order off the menu, remember to prioritize your money. While it’s perfectly normal to treat yourself, don’t make it into a weekend ritual.
Create a Backup Plan:
Let’s say you didn’t make it through the first round of interviews, or you’ve been in the pending stage for over three months for that marketing company. It may seem like doom and gloom, but there’s always a plan B. Even if it’s the last thing you desire, beginning something small like working at the cashier of a fast food service, or working in retail at a local mall can assist in improving the skills that will further make you appear more experienced in the workforce. Sometimes, starting small is the greatest way to build up your tower of achievements. Who knows? You may meet a customer who works for your dream job or gets promoted within the company where you are working.
Most importantly…
Enjoy your senior year, and look forward to what the future will bring. Fate works in mysterious ways, so make sure to live your college life to the fullest. As Paramore sang in one of their songs, “Ain’t it fun living in the real world”?
Special shout out to all the seniors at Muhlenberg College! We’ve made it!