Five tips for Arts and Sciences students to land jobs before graduation
Graduation from your Arts and Sciences program may seem far away, but it’s never too early to start thinking about life after CU. It can often take 6-9 months to find a job, so this is a great time to start your search.Ìý
Here are some tips to help you plan for life after college, find jobs and graduate with confidence.
Search strategically
Start exploring full-time positions that align with your interests or A+S major. Find job postings onÌýHandshake,Ìý²¹²Ô»åÌý. Set up saved searches on these sites to learn about new postings that match your criteria. You can also check industry-specific sites likeÌý,ÌýÌý²¹²Ô»åÌý.
Different industries often follow different hiring timelines. If you’re pursuing a career in consulting or finance take note that they often recruit and hire in the fall, even if you’re graduating in May. Companies in marketing, operations, creative fields, government, education and nonprofits are more likely to hire as needed. If you are graduating in May, start applying for these industries in early spring. Connect with recruiters atÌýcareer fairs and eventsÌýto learn about hiring timelines. For more job searching tips,Ìýattend workshops and group advising sessionsÌýthis semester.
Build skills
No matter what job you pursue, continuously hone your skills and build new ones. Technology continues to advance, and the world of work is changing. Some jobs are becoming automated and new jobs are created frequently.
To know which skills you developed in your A+S major or are most in demand for the positions/industries you’re interested in,Ìýrequest a skills report. This can help you build tailored skills and prepare for the demands of your specific field. There are also general skills that all employers value, regardless of industry. You probably developed many of these skills in your A+S major. Review theseÌýfoundational skillsÌýand find ways toÌýbuild skills on campus.
Consider aÌýpart-time internshipÌýor other practical experience this semester.ÌýProfessional experiencesÌýof any kind are a useful way to explore interests, build new skills and expand your network. All of which will help with securing full-time employment upon graduation. It’s also common for a part-time job or internship to turn into full-time employment.Ìý
Use your network
Spend time building professional relationships with others in your field of interest or A+S major. These folks can help you learn about the field, introduce you to those who are hiring or keep you posted with new opportunities.Ìý
Join theÌýForeverBuffs NetworkÌýto start connecting with CU Boulder alumni. They can help with resume feedback and interview preparation. And some may be open toÌýinformational interviewsÌýor mentoring. You can also useÌýÌýto connect with others, learn about different industries, and join conversations related to your career interests.
This is also a great time to reconnect with those already in your network. This includes previous employers, supervisors, advisors, professors, family friends—anyone who has supported your career growth in the past and who might know of opportunities. Reach out and share that you are graduating soon and looking for employment in May.
For more opportunities to network this year, check outÌýcareer fairs and events.
Update your application materials
Whether you’re updating your resume with new skills or working on your first resume, the freeÌýAI resume builer by QuinnciaÌýis a CU Boulder tool that can help. Use Quinncia to get personalized feedback on your resume and make improvements.Ìý
Career development advisors are also here to provide feedback. AttendÌýweekly programs and workshopsÌýon resumes and job searching to ask questions and get more tips.Ìý
Once your resume is updated, upload it to your Handshake and LinkedIn profiles. Make sure your profile is on the public setting so recruiters and employers can view it.Ìý
Buff up your interview skills
As you search for jobs and share your resume, you’ll also want to prepare for interviews. UseÌýInterview PrepÌýto practice answering commonly asked questions. You can create custom interviews and request general questions or interview questions tied to specific roles or industries. This tool records your responses for you to view or share with someone else to view and provide feedback. Remember, practice makes perfect!
As you begin your search, career development advisors are here to help. Learn more aboutÌýgetting started with Career Services.