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Career Advice

As a university I have a lot of doubts about the future and the career I'll have after completing my undergrad. Does anyone have any advice about tuning people out and their opinions? Or ways that I can stand out compared to other applicants when applying for jobs or internships? #career-counseling #careers #JULY20

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Alison’s Answer

Hi Wendy,
Getting any kind of job can be tough, internships included. There is a lot of competition out there, and sometimes it can be hard to know exactly what the company wants in an employee. However, there are some things you can do to make sure that you at least get considered.

Hopefully, you’ve spend some time in college exploring, trying new things, and figuring out what really interests you. Your career path is up to you, so pay attention to what has really sparked something for you. If you are passionate about the industry you’ll be working in, employers often pick up on that positive energy and drive. Once you have a position in mind that interests you and is a good fit for you, go after it: check out the next steps below.

Good luck!

Alison recommends the following next steps:

Make sure your resume is PERFECT. It should show off how much you have to offer, be nicely formatted, and have NO mistakes in grammar/spelling/formatting/etc. Get someone to check it for you.
Write an awesome cover letter. Let the company know why you’re the perfect person for this position. This might mean doing a little extra research into the company first, so you can explain exactly how you’re a good fit.
Follow up. A couple weeks after the closing date for applications, send a message to the hiring manager to politely check in on the status of your application and thank them for their time.
Make as many connections as you can. Whether you meet someone who knows someone through class, in a networking event, or someone else, it will make a big impact if someone can introduce or recommend you to the hiring manager.
When you get a rejection (and you will), don’t panic. Look for a similar position somewhere else, and try again.
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Kellen’s Answer

Hi Wendy, great question. When applying for jobs and internships, confidence is key to standing out. Do not be discouraged when you receive the "We decided to pursue another candidate" responses. You will likely receive many, as we all do. But every application, interview, and hiring process is practice for the next one. Each time you will get better and that is how you will stand out. Couple that with a resume that you are passionate about and you will be good to go.
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Andrew’s Answer

Hi Wendy!

It would help to know what your degree would be in so that personalized advice could be offered, but there are certainly things you could be doing to best prepare for the future.

Andrew recommends the following next steps:

1. Look for internships/entry level jobs in your field of study
2. Improve skills that would be beneficial in your field via online courses
3. Continue your professional development (LinkedIn account/resume)
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Simeon’s Answer

As far as opinions go, I like making the distinction between advise and counsel. Advice if just thrown at people where counsel is requested. I wouldn't bother listening to most people trying to send advice your way. Instead, make a point of asking people about questions that are concerning to you and that you're invested in finding an answer for.

To stand out from other applicants, make connections and network with people that are likely to help you get a job. Also, find ways of telling effective stories about yourself that highlight your strengths.
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