Your Post Graduation Journey - Life After CSB/SJU!

 

If you are unsure of your plans for after graduation, you are not alone.  Some seniors who had made formal plans may be re-evaluating their decisions, while others are seriously considering their post-graduation options for the first time.  No matter where you are at, you can begin your post-graduation journey in a positive manner.  Start by developing a timeline and plan that will allow you to effectively explore post-graduation options.  The key is to become actively engaged in the process of finding “your first position after graduation.”  The tips below include a variety of strategies to help you during a job/grad school/volunteer search.  

 

· Set up an appointment with a Career Counselor

If you’re feeling uncertain of what your first step will be after graduation, an appointment with a Career Counselor is a great place to start.  Don’t be afraid that your ideas or fears will sound silly; there is a good chance that many others have felt the same way.  The Career Counselor can help you come up with a plan for your grad school/job/volunteer search. 

· Find A Temporary Job

By taking a temporary position, you allow yourself the time needed to explore a variety of options and organizations.   Some temporary positions may also lead to permanent positions in an organization. Continue to investigate and explore other options while working in a temporary position. 

· Conduct Informational Interviews

Informational interviews are a helpful way to learn about a career field that interests you. These interviews are not just for students – they’re helpful for anyone trying to learn more about a career, graduate program, and/or organization. An informational interview involves talking with a professional about their career experience.  Asking questions such as “How did you get started in this type of work?” or “What skills are necessary for this type of work?” will help you assess whether you want to pursue the career and what kinds of experiences you might need.

· Brainstorm Job Shadowing Possibilities

Job Shadowing involves spending time with a professional in his or her field of work to observe a typical day on the job.  This will help increase you understanding of the realities of the job and allow you to further assess whether the job is the right “fit” for you.

· Network with professionals

Networking is the process of developing and nurturing relationships with people in your field of interest whether they are family, friends, alums, profs/campus staff, or former employers.  By talking with a variety of people who can offer you input and guidance for the next stage of life, you will discover more opportunities while building relationships.

· Consider Internships

It is not unusual for recent grads to consider doing an internship (not for credit of course) to gain additional experience and to get a foot in the door.  Internships allow you to explore a profession while learning new skills and networking with professionals already working in the field.  In addition, you can apply the skills you’ve learned throughout college.

· Write (or Revise) your Resume

Your resume is your marketing tool; it highlights who you are and includes your skills, achievements, experiences and future capabilities.  Create a customized version of your resume for each position you apply for; employers expect this type of approach. Ask a Career Counselor to critique it so that you are marketing yourself in the best way!

· Deal with Pressures in a Positive Manner

As graduation approaches, a variety of people may ask about your post-graduation plans.  Do not be intimidated by this; instead, remain confident in where you are at.  Avoid comparing yourself to other seniors and remember that each person is unique. Therefore, people will have a variety of plans and ideas for after graduation. Think about a response you can give; for example, “I’m not exactly sure but I’m exploring options in a variety of areas including…….(give a few examples of areas you’re interested in pursuing).  Would you have any suggestions of people I should talk with or organizations I should contact?” You might as well do some networking too!  Stay positive and upbeat, and remember that your first position is only the beginning of your post-graduation journey. 

Top 10 Transition Tips

Your final weeks of college will be filled with opportunities to reflect on the friendships, experiences, and accomplishments that have been meaningful to you over the past four years.  After you graduate and begin the transition to the next stage of your life, keep in mind the tips below:

1. Believe in yourself and your accomplishments.  Remind yourself of things you’ve accomplished over the past four years. 

2. Surround yourself with positive people.

3. Be prepared to take the Good with the Bad.  Learn from both kinds of experiences.

4. Avoid comparing yourself with others.

5. Take time each day to enjoy this stage of life.  Remember, that you’re beginning/looking for the “first position” after college; this position is not for “the rest of your life!”

6. Show passion for all you do.

7. Share your concerns or fears with others.

8. Think about the big picture.

9. Remember that it’s okay to try something new; ask yourself, “Is this helping me learn more about myself and moving forward?”  If yes, try it!

10. Make an effort to keep in touch with college friends, professors, and staff while meeting new people.