The Final Stretch

The holidays are over, it’s back to school. Hopefully this is your final semester as a full time student! It is time to enjoy the freedom that college offers, to reflect and plan your next steps. In a few short months you will be a graduate and out on your own. Don’t let the time sneak up on you without being prepared.

Here is a check list to help you use this time to your best advantage to eliminate stress and to keep your parents off of your back!

1. Set aside a few set hours a week to work on your job search
2. Work on resume
3. Research different jobs that may be of interest to see what qualifications are needed
4. Attend career fairs to learn about what jobs are available, starting pay and to practice asking questions
5. Do your self assessment to determine your skills and differentiators
6. Re-do resume with above information
7. Set a target list of people/companies to gain informational interviews
8. Research how to write a convincing cover letter
9. Buy paper and envelopes (good stock) to use for resumes, cover letters and thank you’s
10. Develop a list of references and ask their permission to use their name
11. Change vm to a more professional message
12. Invest in interview appropriate clothing and hair cut; notebook and pen
13. Prepare questions to ask in interviews
14. Practice answering questions you may be asked in an interview

Waiting until the last minute may cause you to rush and not take the right job. Preparation will help you come off professional, together and look like a candidate to hire.