Are you college bound? Now is the time to start thinking about where you will be in four years. As a freshman, it’s not too early to start thinking about your career post-graduation. What you do now will impact your success, both in college and in your professional journey. Brett Hobby, director and instructor at UHD Marilyn Davies College of Business Career Center, offers these valuable tips to help every college student prepare now for their future career. Use Brett’s timely advice to help you excel and achieve your goals.
Freshman Year
Schedule an appointment with a career coach at the career services center to familiarize yourself with the services and resources available. Begin to research and explore careers related to your intended major. Conduct informational interviews with professionals in positions and fields in which you have an interest. Attend on-campus career and job fairs.
Sophomore Year
Update your resume (with your career-related summer activities). Check in with your career coach. Create and perfect your elevator pitch and begin to practice interviewing. Review and update your LinkedIn profile and begin applying for internships. Attend on-campus career and job fairs.
Junior Year
Update your resume. Check in with your career coach. Continue practicing and perfecting your skills at mock interviews. Take leadership positions in student organizations and also volunteer with an organization or two. Start your professional wardrobe.
Senior Year
Update your resume. Check in with your career coach. Research potential employers. Develop an employer prospect list for your full-time job search. Gather information on realistic salary expectations, and learn how to evaluate and negotiate salary offers.
Every Summer and Fall
Check your career center’s website for a calendar of dates and times of career development and job-search workshops.
Prepare Now for Your Future Career
If you’re college bound, know that your four years in college will go by quicker than you think. Start setting yourself up for success post-college by following these helpful tips. Your future self will thank you for it.
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