5 tips for gaining job experience while in college
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This article is brought to you by Brigham Young University-Idaho, which is a private, Christian, four-year university sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university’s mission is to help students “develop as disciples of Jesus Christ who are leaders in their homes, the Church, and their communities” by offering high-quality, affordable education in a fun and uplifting environment.
College is designed to prepare students for successful lives after graduation, but to go the extra mile, students can gain work experience while studying. Here are a few tips to help.
1. Meet with career services
Most college campuses have a career services department where students can get help with resumes and practice interviewing. Advisors assist students in exploring their interests and strengths, which is especially useful for those unsure about their major or career.
Some career centers also offer personal mentors who can teach career-building skills and help expand professional networks. At BYU-Idaho for example, students can connect with alumni mentors in their fields.
2. Look at campus job boards
Working on campus is a great way to gain job experience while accommodating a college student’s schedule.
Students can apply for work-study when signing up for federal financial aid, which can help them find jobs such as campus tour guides, teaching assistants, or computer lab assistants. Many universities also have job boards listing various campus positions.
Some universities also offer part-time jobs where students can gain experience related to their major. For example, students studying digital media could work as social media interns for the school’s marketing office, or students studying accounting could work in the financial aid office.
3. Visit career fairs
Most colleges host career fairs, inviting hundreds of employers and graduate schools to campus to network with students. By attending these events, students can ask questions, make connections, and even get hired.
When attending career fairs, it’s best to dress professionally, identify the businesses you want to talk to, and bring copies of your business card and resume to share.
4. Look for internships
Internships are a popular way for students to gain experience, with both paid and unpaid options available. These experiences can help in securing full-time positions after graduation or exploring other career paths.
Students can find internships through their Career Center, recommendations from friends and family, or by searching online job boards.
5. Volunteer
Students can volunteer on campus or in their college town, with opportunities like tutoring, animal shelter work and community clean-ups. Although these positions are unpaid, they offer valuable resume experience.
By trying out these tips, students can gain important skills that will help them secure quality job opportunities after graduation.