15 Tips for ’16 Graduates
1. Don’t expect to start off at your DREAM job
It’s called a career path. The best view is rarely your first steps of the journey.
2. At the same time, familiarize yourself with the tools A&M provides to help you land a GREAT job
Just because you don’t start off at a dream job does NOT mean you should settle for one you aren’t happy with. Use HireAggies to bridge that gap.
3. It is OK to graduate and not know exactly what you want to do.
Your parents may make you think otherwise, and it can be stressful. But the Career Center is designed for YOU and YOUR plans – so call today!
4. Don’t let your major limit your job search
Apply to positions you could see yourself excelling in, not necessarily what you feel is expected for your major.
5. Do NOT underestimate the power of the Aggie Network.
As a Texas A&M student, you have a world of mentors and possible employers at your fingertips. Use it.
6. Dedicate yourself to working 40 hours a week.
But I don’t have a job!
No excuse! Commit to working 40 hours per week, whether you employed, pursuing higher education, or still figuring it out. 40 hours of your week should be focused on your career (or education). In other words, if you are working part time for only 20 hours per week, spend those other 20 hours actively searching for how to get to the next step in your career
7. Continue to READ
Reading has countless benefits, but it becomes even more important upon graduating to still be in the know with the world or ideas emerging in your field of study.
8. Dedicate yourself to a daily routine
Not sure if you believe it has benefits? See if these CEO’s can change your mind.
9. Budget
As Fetty Wap points out, “Save that money.”
10. Say “YES.”
You are going to be completely redefining and recreating your immediate network. Take advantage of those opportunities and professional relationships and say “yes.”
11. You probably wont have homework – find a new way to spend your time.
Volunteer, find a hobby, become a certified skydiver. ENJOY YOUR SUNDAYS WITHOUT STRESS. Whatever it is, replace homework with a passion.
12. You may not be learning in classes, but still commit to LEARN
Through books, articles, mentors… soak it all in. Also, you no longer have a GPA to boost, so let your strengths in your experiences (that you are building) speak loudest.
13. Don’t throw out your ID
Do you know how much money you can save on going to the movies and store deals??
14. Have a resume (even if you’re not applying to a job right away!)
Need help sharpening it? Come to the Career Center Monday – Friday from 8:30 – 11 AM and 1:30 – 4 PM.
15. Do something on your bucket list.
That, or make a bucket list.