When I arrived at IU my freshman year, I thought there was a self-explanatory list of tasks — get good grades, graduate and get a job — I needed to accomplish during my four years.
Of course, I also hoped to make great friends and memories, but as for the technical purpose of school, I figured the former list comprised my main responsibilities.
As a senior about to enter her final semester of college, I’ve realized I was sadly mistaken.
At least for me, there have been a slew of new tasks I realized I needed to get done if I want to reach my career goals.
Most of the things I have figured out are not heavily publicized, so I figured I would share my insights with those who are still early in their journey at IU.
First: Know your field.
It sounds a bit silly, but beyond your actual classes, do you know what types of jobs exist for you, what they pay or the qualifications you need to get hired?
While schools like the Kelley School of Business are great at having formal paths for students to take through this process, in other areas of study, you may have to do more of your own research.
Second: Internships.
This one also may seem self-explanatory to some, but I’ve realized that students often don’t know where to begin.
Most schools at IU have career services, so that is always a great place to start.
Other great resources that are under-utilized yet right under your noses, are your professors.
Regardless of the department, many of your professors very likely know about internship opportunities both on and off campus. It’s up to you to connect with them and use them as a tool to help you land a job.
It’s true that many internships are competitive and sadly often underpaid, but they really will help you in the job search.
Third: Networking.
When I realized I wanted to pursue a career in publishing, I didn’t think networking would have much to do with it, but I was so wrong.
The connections I’ve made at each internship have pushed me onto the next internship, and almost all the knowledge I’ve accumulated about the industry has been through office hours with professors, coffee with bosses, and people I have sought out in hopes to learn all I can.
In truth, almost every person I talk to who has recently graduated has gotten their job both because they were qualified and deserved it and also because they had a connection who could get their foot in the door.
While the concept of networking can sound artificial or intimidating, it’s really just another form of being nice to people who surround you. If you’re willing to take the time to form a genuine connection, it totally pays off.
Fourth: Think outside the box. If you are in a major where there is a clear path laid out to get a job, then that’s awesome and I am totally jealous. However, if not, spend some time thinking about creative ways you can stand out.
For publishing, I chose to pursue business minors on top of my English major, as I knew I would need knowledge of the industry in order to successfully navigate it.
That being said, other people I know are pursing the same career as me in different and awesome ways. You just have to find what works for you.
The prospect of finding a job after college is certainty a daunting one, and it doesn’t always come with a guidebook. As long as you love what you’re doing and find creative approaches to your goal, you’re guaranteed success.
sdloughr@umail.iu.edu
