24 answers
25
Updated 3339 views

I have graduated! What now?

Any tips you wish you had known right after you graduated? Job hunting? Or internship hunting for those who have no experience? I have a complete ATS resume and a portfolio.

business career-counseling internships careeradvice information-technology resume networking careerplanning graduate professionalgrowth resumetips entryleveljobs earlycareer jobhunt collegegraduate freshgraduate
Answer This
25

23 answers

4
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Wong’s Answer

One piece of advice I wish I had known is that your first job does not have to be your dream job. You should focus on gaining experience, learning new skills, and building a strong professional network. Every role can teach you something valuable.

If you do not have much experience, you may apply for both entry-level jobs and internships. Do not wait until you meet every requirement in the job description. Many employers value a willingness to learn and a positive attitude.

While job hunting, you can continue improving your skills through online courses, certifications, or personal projects. Learning tools that are relevant to your field can make your resume more competitive.

Also, you may create a professional LinkedIn profile and connect with classmates, professors, and professionals in your industry. Networking can help you discover opportunities that are not always advertised.
Thank you comment icon This is the best advice! Wong Loke Yuen is preaching words of wisdom here. Networking is so important and will help you gain the skills you need. Don't be afraid of reaching out to someone who is in a field or has a job you are interested in. They usually will be more than happy to talk and even help. You can find a mentorship easily through networking. You are going to do great things Shaina! The fact that you are already asking these questions shows that you will have many opportunities very soon. Helena Camenzind
4
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Teklemuz’s Answer

You are transitioning into work, so focus on building real experience through projects, freelancing, volunteering, virtual internships, or externships while developing 1–2 job-relevant skills. Apply early with an ATS-optimized CV tailored to each role, and target entry-level positions aligned with your long-term direction rather than applying randomly. As a new graduate, prioritize learning and gaining experience over salary, even if the pay seems low, because these early roles will shape your future.

Treat the job search as a system by tracking applications, responses, and outcomes to refine your approach, relying on referrals and direct connections as key channels, and defining a clear personal positioning statement that communicates your target role and strengths. Proactively explore local organizations and submit expressions of interest (EOIs) to access hidden opportunities. Engage in job shadowing and informational interview, and build your presence on LinkedIn with a standout achievement that highlights your profile. Use job boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, Handshake, and Wellfound to access opportunities. Prepare for interviews with structured practice, like using the STAR method and mock interviews. View rejections as feedback to improve your resume, targeting, and communication. Stay consistent by applying, learning, and networking every week. By following this approach, you'll greatly increase your chances of landing your desired job over time.
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Michelle’s Answer

Congratulations on graduating! Here are some helpful tips as you start your career journey:

1. Don't wait for the "perfect job" to come along. You already have a strong resume and portfolio. Focus on getting them into the right hands. Consider internships, grad roles, contracts, apprenticeships, or junior positions to gain valuable experience.

2. Tailor your applications. It's great to have a resume that passes ATS, but make sure it highlights the skills and experiences relevant to the job you're applying for. Start with a strong master resume and adjust it for each position.

3. Add context to your portfolio pieces. Explain the problem you solved, your role, the tools you used, and the results you achieved. This is especially important if you don't have much professional experience yet.

4. Network early. Connect with alumni, friends, family, former classmates, recruiters, and professionals in your field. Ask thoughtful questions before seeking referrals.

5. Keep track of your applications. Use a spreadsheet to log details like the employer, job title, application date, referral name, follow-up date, and outcome. This helps you stay organized.

6. Don't take rejections personally. Many factors are out of your control, like internal candidates or unseen opportunities. Your resume and job descriptions will improve as you apply for more positions.

Stay positive and keep pushing forward!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Akasha’s Answer

Hi Sheena! Congratulations on graduating. It is fantastic that you already have an ATS-optimized resume and a portfolio ready to go—you are already ahead of many applicants.When you have no formal job experience, the strategy shifts from what you have done to how you position your potential. Here are the top tips I wish I knew right after graduation:1. Shift Your Networking StrategyTarget alumni: Use LinkedIn to find graduates from your school working in your target industry.Ask for advice: Reach out for 15-minute informational interviews, not job openings.Build champions: People love helping fresh grads from their alma mater, and these conversations often lead to unadvertised roles.2. Maximize Your Portfolio's ImpactShow the process: Do not just show the final product in your portfolio.Explain your thinking: Detail the problem, your approach, your tools, and what you learned.Create mock projects: If you lack client work, invent a problem for a real brand and solve it to prove your skills.3. Translate "No Experience" into ValueValue your education: Treat your major university projects, capstones, and labs as work experience on your resume.Highlight soft skills: Emphasize your adaptability, eagerness to learn, and communication skills in interviews.Showcase passion: A motivated beginner who learns fast is often preferred over a cynical expert.4. Treat the Hunt Like a ProjectSet daily goals: Aim for 2 high-quality, tailored applications a day rather than 20 generic clicks.Keep learning: Spend your downtime gaining free certifications (Google, HubSpot, LinkedIn Learning) to show you are proactive.You have the tools ready. Stay persistent, treat every rejection as data to improve, and keep pushing forward!
Best of luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

ANTHONY’s Answer

From my perspective, one of the biggest transitions after graduation is not just finding a job,it is managing the uncertainty that comes with it. Here's advice I wish every graduate heard:

Your first job does not define your career; it simply starts it.



Many graduates become discouraged because they compare themselves to friends who seem to "have it all figured out." Everyone's journey is different, and career development is rarely a straight line.

For those with no experience, remember:

Your skills are your first experience. Highlight internships, volunteer work, academic projects, leadership roles, and extracurricular activities. Employers often hire for potential as much as experience.

Don't wait for the perfect job. Apply for roles where you meet about 60–70% of the requirements. Many employers expect candidates to learn on the job.

Network intentionally. Attend career fairs, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and ask for informational interviews. Many opportunities come through relationships rather than online applications.

Keep learning. Short certifications, digital skills, communication, problem-solving, and AI literacy can make you more competitive.

Expect rejection. A rejection is feedback, not a verdict on your worth. Every application and interview builds confidence and improves your chances.

Protect your mental health. Job hunting can be emotionally exhausting. Maintain a routine, celebrate small wins, and don't let unemployment define your self-esteem.


As a counselor, I often remind graduates that career success is a marathon, not a sprint. The goal isn't to get any job quickly,it's to keep growing until opportunities align with your skills, values, and aspirations.

Final thought: "Don't let your lack of experience stop you from applying. Every experienced professional was once a beginner who chose to start before they felt fully ready."
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Steward "Tony"’s Answer

Find Industries That You Enjoy. All Have IT internships. Yes, You Have A Degree But That Does Not Make You An Expert. Get Your Foot In The Door As well As Farm Out Your Skills To Local Businesses And Community Groups. Network Your Face, Name and Your Kudos From Happy Clients.
Like IT/IS its all a process.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Brooke’s Answer

Congratulations on graduating! A great way to get get some experience would be to find an internship in a field you are interested in and apply. Even if the exact role is not something you are set on, it is great to have well rounded business experience when applying for jobs.

Networking can come in handy as when you are ready to start applying for roles that interest you. Linked in is a great resource you can use to find jobs in your area that might be of interest to you. Everyone starts somewhere so do not feel as though you cannot apply for a role just because you lack experience. Applying is a great way to get your foot in the door, potentially interview for positions and eventually find a job/career.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

juliana’s Answer

One thing I wish I had known after graduating is that job hunting is often a numbers game, especially for entry-level roles. Don't get discouraged by rejections or lack of responses—they happen to almost everyone.

If you already have an ATS-friendly resume and a portfolio, you're ahead of many candidates. My biggest tips would be:

Apply consistently, not just to a few "dream" roles.
Customize your resume slightly for each position using keywords from the job description.
Network whenever possible—many opportunities come from referrals rather than
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. Firstly, Congratulations!
Below are my suggestions you can consider:
1. Find a decent cv template
2. Explore any working opportunities on job board, college career office, recruitment agencies, etc. Customize your cv for each opportunities
3. Look any intern opportunities you have interest
4. Consider a working holiday to work overseas
5. You can also consider to take post graduate degree if you would like to develop your career in academic.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Xavier’s Answer

If I could give you just one tip, it’s this: Stop sending resumes into the online void and start talking to humans. Reach out to alumni or professionals on LinkedIn for 15-minute informational interviews. Don't ask for a job. Ask how they got theirs, what skills matter right now, and for advice on breaking into the field.

People love to help eager grads, and when an entry-level role opens up, they’ll remember the proactive person who reached out just to learn. Your network is your safety net. Build it before you need it!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Emily’s Answer

It's normal to feel stuck or overwhelmed. Having a good ATS resume and portfolio is a great start, but if the usual path seems blocked, trying new ways can help—and it often leads to new opportunities.

Think of networking as a way to get advice, not a job. Contact alumni or mid-level designers and ask for a short chat to learn about their career or get feedback on your portfolio. People enjoy sharing their experiences, and these relaxed connections can lead to job referrals later on.

Part-time jobs can ease financial and mental stress while giving you a routine. Companies often hire people they know, so part-time positions can turn into full-time offers once they see you're dependable.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Dr. Kelly’s Answer

Congrats! What level did you just finish? It will help us tailor the answer to you better.
Thank you comment icon I finished my Bachelors in IT!! I have a resume already + certifications. I don't want to be really in the technical side of IT but I wanted more in the business side so product designs, ui/ux, consulting, business development, or analytics. Shaina
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Travis’s Answer

Congrats on graduation! One of the biggest things I wish I knew after graduating is that getting that first job can take a while, and that does not mean you are failing. The first role is usually the hardest to land. If you already have an ATS friendly resume and a portfolio, you are in a good spot. At that point, I would focus on applying consistently and not being too locked in on the perfect job title. A lot of people get started through internships, contract roles, smaller companies, volunteer work, or adjacent roles that help them build experience.

I would also say do not underestimate soft skills. Being able to talk clearly about your projects, explain what you did, and show that you are easy to work with matters a lot. Networking helps too, even if it is just staying in touch with classmates, professors, or people from internships. Also, if you do not have much formal experience yet, personal projects, class work, volunteer work, and anything hands-on still counts. The key is being able to explain what you learned and what you actually did. Mostly, just try not to get too discouraged by rejection. It is normal, especially early on. Keep applying, keep building, and keep putting yourself out there. That first opportunity is usually the toughest part.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Emily’s Answer

You've already made a fantastic start with your portfolio and resume! If you have a clear idea of what you want to do after graduation, focus on that area and explore ways to get involved. When I graduated, I wanted to work in healthcare but didn't know where to begin. I started by volunteering in healthcare settings to gain the experience needed for an entry-level job in my chosen field. This flexible volunteering allowed me to continue my education and learn from others by asking for career advice. I decided to attend trade school to get a certification and degree in medical assisting, which included an externship. Although unpaid, it provided the experience I needed. Before finishing the externship, I was offered a full-time job at the clinic where I worked. I made sure to share my resume and portfolio with managers during my rotations, which helped highlight my skills and strengths. This approach made it easier for me to secure a job in healthcare, where I worked for 10 years before switching to IT. Even without prior experience in project management, I took a chance, studied for a certification, and applied for a job. I was lucky to get a role as a Project Manager at Progressive, where I could use skills from my healthcare journey.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Sarah’s Answer

Congratulations!!

One piece of advice: don’t underestimate the value of your class projects and assignments. If they demonstrate skills relevant to the job, include them in your portfolio and talk about them confidently during interviews. Employers care that you can solve problems, not just where you gained the experience.

Keep networking, too. Relationships are often your most valuable career asset. Attend alumni events, connect with professionals in your field, and let people know you’re looking. Many opportunities come through conversations, not applications.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get your foot in the door. If a company you admire has an entry-level role that’s not your dream job, it may still be worth taking. Once you’ve proven yourself, it’s often easier to move into the position you really want from within the organization than it is as an outside applicant.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Amy’s Answer

Congratulations on reaching this milestone! Here's a friendly tip: try sending your resume to any job you come across. Right now, the most important thing is to gain experience and get your foot in the door. Consider working for startups, volunteering, and networking. When I volunteered with startups, it really helped me build my resume and portfolio with real experiences that were relevant to my career goals.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Tim’s Answer

Congratulations on graduating! That's a big achievement. The best way to find a job now is by connecting with people you know. While your skills are important on the job, networking can open up more opportunities. Consider the internships and college jobs you've had. Reach out to the people you met there, start a conversation, and eventually talk about your job search. Good luck, and I hope you find something that helps you grow and do what you love!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Michelle’s Answer

I remember how disoriented and lonely I felt in the weeks and months after I graduated college. It was in the midst of the recession, I had an internship that sounded prestigious but was actually mind-numbing and paid less than minimum wage, and my apartment got bed bugs a month after I moved in. It was July and so, so hot in New York, and I had to cart every piece of clothing and bedding I owned up and down ten flights of stairs to the laundromat a block away. That morning, I'd had my very first freelance writing assignment, which involved conducting a phone interview, and I was so exhausted and anxious from the bed-bug discovery from the night before, that I didn't even remember to record the interview. On my way to the subway in the mornings (and this is very cringe to admit) I'd listen to Empire State of Mind, and feel haunted by the lyric, "City is a pity, half of y'all won't make it," like it was some kind of omen.

15 years later, I'm doing a job that I could never have imagined back then. I spent all of my internships and the first part of my career working in publishing, then left that for a career in tech, working in roles that I didn't even know existed. I've had so many jobs and apartments and relationships since that first summer post college. I'll echo what others have said, in that what's been the most helpful throughout has been actually meeting people and networking. You'll hear this advice constantly, but there's a reason for it! Even loose connections are valuable. After a layoff, I sent so many LinkedIn messages to connections of connections, or asked for intros. Generally, people will want to help you if they can. Just be specific in your ask, and say thank you! And don't be afraid to check back in with people who have offered to help you, even if there's nothing they have available right at this moment. Things can open up months down the line. A manager of mine would often tell college grads who came in for informational interviews that she wouldn't remember them after they stepped out the door, so it was on them to write. (She meant this kindly!)

Other things I wish I knew: It's okay to take a job for the sake of taking a job; what you're doing at 22 almost certainly will not be what you're doing a decade later. On the flip side, no job is worth your mental health. It's okay to leave -- and it's okay to leave before you feel ready. Learn how to negotiate -- young women almost never do. Try to find your community. Between all the job hunting, in my first years after college, I volunteered for organizations I loved, and went to events that I was interested in, in the service of trying to build a community. Trust that you'll find your people. Hold it all as lightly as you can.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Marlene’s Answer

Shaina, congratulations! The best piece of advice I can give is to network and talk to people face-to-face. This will help with communication skills that are needed in young professionals and those new to the workforce. The majority of issues in the workplace, from my experience, come down to poor communication.

Volunteer or take a fun part-time job to meet new people and learn different skills. I wish I would have done this earlier in my career. The older you get, life happens and you seem to have less time for these things.

Best of luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Samantha’s Answer

Congratulations on graduating! That is a huge accomplishment.

One piece of advice I wish more people knew is to start networking on LinkedIn as early as possible. If you do not have a LinkedIn yet, make that your first step. Build out your profile with a short bio, your experience, projects, and skills. Then use AI to help tailor your bio toward the type of job you want.

After that, send lots of connection requests to people who work at companies you’re interested in. You do not need to ask for a job right away. Just introduce yourself, mention that you’re a recent graduate interested in their company, and ask if they’d be willing to share any advice about breaking into the field. Many people are surprisingly willing to help, and one conversation can lead to referrals or opportunities you would never find through online applications alone.

Good luck, and enjoy this exciting chapter!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Divya’s Answer

Good question! A few things I wish someone had told me early on...

Your network matters more than your resume (truly!). Most jobs get filled through referrals before they're even posted publicly. Start reaching out to people on LinkedIn in roles or companies you're interested in, even just for a 15 min conversation. People are more willing to help than you'd expect, especially if you ask specific questions instead of just "can you help me get a job." :)

Apply before you feel ready. Job descriptions are wish lists, not requirements. If you meet 60-70% of what they're asking for, that's usually enough to apply. Volume and personalization both matter. A handful of tailored applications usually beats blasting out fifty generic ones. Take the time to tweak your resume and write a short note for the roles you actually want.

For internships specifically, don't underestimate smaller companies or startups (this was my mistake!) They often have less rigid hiring processes and are more willing to take a chance on someone with potential over someone with a perfect resume.

What field are you in or hoping to break into?!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Yoav’s Answer

First off, a huge congratulations on graduating, because that is a massive milestone and you should be so proud of all the hard work that got you to this point. It is totally normal to feel a mix of excitement and "what now?" uncertainty right after crossing the finish line, but you are already steps ahead of most people by having a complete ATS-ready resume and a portfolio ready to go. The biggest tip I wish someone had told me is that job hunting is rarely a straight line, so do not let silence from applications or initial rejections get you down or make you doubt your value. Since you have your portfolio locked down, lean heavily into networking instead of just sending applications into online portals—reach out to alumni from your school, connect with people doing roles you admire on LinkedIn for casual informational chats, and ask if they have advice or know of upcoming internships or entry-level spots. Also, consider looking at smaller companies or startups where you can wear multiple hats, build up real-world experience fast, and turn an internship or contract role into a full-time job. You have built a solid foundation and you are completely ready for this next chapter, so trust your preparation, stay persistent, and best of luck as you step out into the professional world!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Samantha’s Answer

Congratulations on graduating! If you’re still figuring out what you want to do, I’d encourage you to look into tech sales. It’s one of the few careers where you don’t need years of experience to get started. Companies care a lot about communication, curiosity, and your ability to build relationships.

A tip that helped me break into the industry was treating LinkedIn like part of the interview. Connect with employees and recruiters at companies you’re interested in, send thoughtful messages, ask questions, and build genuine relationships. If you don’t have a LinkedIn yet, make that your first project. Write a short bio, then use AI to help tailor it toward the type of sales role you want.

The funny thing is that by cold messaging professionals, you’re already demonstrating one of the core skills of the job: starting conversations with people you don’t know. Even if those messages don’t turn into interviews immediately, you’re building a network that can open doors later. Best of luck!
0