Steps for Conducting a Successful Job Search

When looking for a job, it's important to have a plan in place. Here are five steps to follow to ensure a successful job search:

• Self-reflection: Reflect on your interests, skills, and values to identify potential career paths that align with your strengths and passions.
• Networking: Connect with professionals in your field to learn about potential job opportunities and build relationships that could lead to future job offers.
• Job listings: Look for job listings that match your skills, experience, and education to identify positions that align with your career goals.
• Resume and cover letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experience fit the position you are applying for.
• Interview skills: Make a strong case for why you are the best candidate in the interview by practicing your responses and showcasing your strengths.

While many students are interested in securing a full-time position after graduation, it's worth considering non-permanent opportunities like internships and co-ops to gain valuable work experience in your field.

Internships

An internship is a non-permanent work and training experience related to your major or industry of interest. It provides an opportunity to apply classroom learning or research experience to a working environment. The National Association of Colleges and Employers found that internship-to-permanent employee conversation rate is consistent at 50%, making an internship a great way to obtain a full-time position.

To find internships, visit HireAggies and search for opportunities no later than two semesters before you plan to intern.

Co-ops

A co-op is a full-time, non-permanent position aimed at providing practical training in your discipline. It may be longer than a semester, even reaching six-months in length. Co-ops offer an opportunity to build applied skills that can complement your coursework and research.

Co-ops are available for 0-4 credits on your degree plan, so be sure to ask your academic advisor or research supervisor about the availability of a co-op course. Even if one isn’t listed in the course catalog, departments can often find an independent study course that can be used. Students completing a co-op are classified as full-time equivalent students for enrollment and insurance purposes.

International Students

International students will need approval from International Student Services for curricular practical training to engage in paid internship work off-campus. Contact International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) to process any necessary paperwork and learn more about working in the US as an International student.