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How do I get a part-time job in communications while still in college?
I'm a junior at Howard university and I'd like to have at least a part-time job in my field before I graduate. Any advise?
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10 answers
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Raphael’s Answer
It's great that you want to gain experience in your field before graduating! Here are some tips to help you find a part-time job related to your major:
1. Identify your field of interest: First, determine the specific area within your field that you'd like to work in. This will help you target the right job opportunities and potential employers.
2. Update your resume: Make sure your resume is up to date, highlighting your relevant coursework, projects, and any previous internships or jobs related to your field. You can also include volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and any relevant skills you possess.
3. Leverage your network: Reach out to friends, classmates, professors, and alumni from your university who might have connections in your field. Attend networking events, job fairs, and career workshops to meet potential employers and expand your network.
4. Use online resources: Utilize online job platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Handshake to search for part-time job opportunities in your field. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and up to date, as it's a great way for employers to find you.
5. Visit your university's career center: Howard University's career center can provide you with resources, job postings, and guidance on finding a part-time job in your field. They may also be able to connect you with potential employers or internships.
6. Apply to internships: Internships are an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in your field, and many are part-time or offer flexible hours. While some internships may be unpaid, the experience can be invaluable to your future career.
7. Prepare for interviews: Practice your interview skills and research potential employers, so you're ready when an opportunity arises. Be prepared to discuss your relevant experience, skills, and how you can contribute to the organization.
8. Be persistent: Finding a part-time job in your field may take time, but don't get discouraged. Keep applying, networking, and refining your job search strategies.
Remember that gaining experience in your field while still in school can provide you with a competitive edge when you graduate and enter the job market. Good luck!
1. Identify your field of interest: First, determine the specific area within your field that you'd like to work in. This will help you target the right job opportunities and potential employers.
2. Update your resume: Make sure your resume is up to date, highlighting your relevant coursework, projects, and any previous internships or jobs related to your field. You can also include volunteer work, extracurricular activities, and any relevant skills you possess.
3. Leverage your network: Reach out to friends, classmates, professors, and alumni from your university who might have connections in your field. Attend networking events, job fairs, and career workshops to meet potential employers and expand your network.
4. Use online resources: Utilize online job platforms such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Handshake to search for part-time job opportunities in your field. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and up to date, as it's a great way for employers to find you.
5. Visit your university's career center: Howard University's career center can provide you with resources, job postings, and guidance on finding a part-time job in your field. They may also be able to connect you with potential employers or internships.
6. Apply to internships: Internships are an excellent way to gain hands-on experience in your field, and many are part-time or offer flexible hours. While some internships may be unpaid, the experience can be invaluable to your future career.
7. Prepare for interviews: Practice your interview skills and research potential employers, so you're ready when an opportunity arises. Be prepared to discuss your relevant experience, skills, and how you can contribute to the organization.
8. Be persistent: Finding a part-time job in your field may take time, but don't get discouraged. Keep applying, networking, and refining your job search strategies.
Remember that gaining experience in your field while still in school can provide you with a competitive edge when you graduate and enter the job market. Good luck!
Updated
Marissa’s Answer
Hello! I majored in Public Relations/Advertising while in university. I found internships specifically in communications for the on campus sports teams and the alumni society. The college radio, on campus newspapers and local businesses also need social media interns/hires. Although this was not paid for, I volunteered as the head of public relations for Relay For Life on my campus. I made social media posts, took photographs of all the events, as well as videos. This experience helped me to land my first paid internship the summer after and gave me a portfolio to show my impact!
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Tricia’s Answer
I was a communications major with a focus in advertising. I would look for an internship in your field of interest. I’m partial to advertising, because there is a create range of experiences you can get from working for an ad agency — PR, copy (written persuasion), figuring out how to reach an audience and get your message to land, tapping into your creativity, developing work that you can add to your portfolio, etc. Your program may have a list of companies that support/offer work or internships. If not, reach out to companies you’re interested in learning from. Explain why you want to work for them (the knowledge/experience you hope to gain), and how you envision using that beyond (e.g. your career interests snd/or how you want to positively change the world).
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Carmen’s Answer
Concentrate entirely on networking, as over 86% of jobs are secured through connections rather than sending countless resumes. Begin with LinkedIn, which has over 150 million active daily users in the US. There's absolutely nothing to lose, so stay positive and keep connecting!
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Martha’s Answer
Hi, I like everything that Raphael said, and would add that you may be able to get experience on your campus. For example, I noticed that Howard University has both a newspaper (The Hilltop) and radio station (WHUR FM). While those likely won't be paying jobs, they could offer you valuable experience that would make you more attractive to employers. Howard likely has a communications office, and you may be able to work or volunteer there. Similarly, you could learn a lot about public relations (if that is the part of communications you are interested in) from working in the Howard admissions office.
I hope this helps and good luck!
I hope this helps and good luck!
Mustabsheera Vengus
GMBPsS 🎓 | Aspiring Psychologist | Behavior Therapist | Counselor | Mentor
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Mustabsheera’s Answer
Identify Your Interests and Strengths: Determine your specific area of interest within communications. It could be public relations, social media, content creation, journalism, or any other aspect of communication that aligns with your skills and career goals.
Update Your Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant coursework, skills, and any previous experience related to communications. Emphasize your writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills, as these are often valued in the field of communications.
Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, such as writing samples, design projects, social media campaigns, or any other relevant projects you have completed. If you don't have professional work experience, consider creating your own projects or contributing to student publications or organizations to showcase your skills.
Utilize College Resources: Take advantage of resources available through your college's career services department. They may offer job boards, resume reviews, interview preparation, and connections to employers in the communications field. Attend career fairs and networking events to make connections and learn about job opportunities.
Network: Connect with professionals in the communications field through online platforms like LinkedIn or by attending industry events and conferences. Reach out to alumni or professionals working in roles you're interested in to seek advice or potential job leads. Networking can often lead to part-time job opportunities or internships.
Search Online Job Boards: Use online job boards, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or specific communication-focused job boards, to search for part-time opportunities in communications. Filter the search results based on your location and desired role, and regularly check for new postings.
Explore Internship Programs: Many companies offer part-time internships in the communications field. Look for internship programs that fit your schedule and provide hands-on experience in your area of interest. Internships can be a valuable stepping stone to future employment and can provide you with relevant industry connections.
Volunteer: Consider volunteering your communication skills to non-profit organizations, student organizations, or community groups. This can help you gain practical experience, expand your network, and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Polish Your Online Presence: Ensure that your online presence, including your social media profiles and personal website or blog, reflects your interest and skills in communications. Showcase your expertise, share relevant content, and engage with others in the industry to establish your online presence as a communications professional.
Be Proactive and Persistent: Don't be discouraged by rejections or initial setbacks. Stay persistent and continue applying to part-time positions in communications. Follow up with employers after submitting applications or attending interviews to express your continued interest in the role.
Update Your Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant coursework, skills, and any previous experience related to communications. Emphasize your writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills, as these are often valued in the field of communications.
Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, such as writing samples, design projects, social media campaigns, or any other relevant projects you have completed. If you don't have professional work experience, consider creating your own projects or contributing to student publications or organizations to showcase your skills.
Utilize College Resources: Take advantage of resources available through your college's career services department. They may offer job boards, resume reviews, interview preparation, and connections to employers in the communications field. Attend career fairs and networking events to make connections and learn about job opportunities.
Network: Connect with professionals in the communications field through online platforms like LinkedIn or by attending industry events and conferences. Reach out to alumni or professionals working in roles you're interested in to seek advice or potential job leads. Networking can often lead to part-time job opportunities or internships.
Search Online Job Boards: Use online job boards, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, or specific communication-focused job boards, to search for part-time opportunities in communications. Filter the search results based on your location and desired role, and regularly check for new postings.
Explore Internship Programs: Many companies offer part-time internships in the communications field. Look for internship programs that fit your schedule and provide hands-on experience in your area of interest. Internships can be a valuable stepping stone to future employment and can provide you with relevant industry connections.
Volunteer: Consider volunteering your communication skills to non-profit organizations, student organizations, or community groups. This can help you gain practical experience, expand your network, and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Polish Your Online Presence: Ensure that your online presence, including your social media profiles and personal website or blog, reflects your interest and skills in communications. Showcase your expertise, share relevant content, and engage with others in the industry to establish your online presence as a communications professional.
Be Proactive and Persistent: Don't be discouraged by rejections or initial setbacks. Stay persistent and continue applying to part-time positions in communications. Follow up with employers after submitting applications or attending interviews to express your continued interest in the role.
Updated
Todd’s Answer
I like what Raphael suggests. Being a communications major can turn into so many different things. It’s important to identify options within and outside of the field that intrigue you and find someone (maybe on this platform) you can chat with. Try out a few internships (now paid for the most part, not the case for me 25 years ago!) and research to help narrow your search. The most important thing is to find something that brings you joy and where you know you can contribute. Once you’ve identified that (be patient) find a brand and culture you believe in. Best wishes in your search!
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Securing a part-time job in communications while still in college is an excellent way to gain practical experience and build your resume. Here are some steps and advice to help you achieve this goal:
1. **Build a Strong Resume:** Craft a well-structured resume that highlights your relevant coursework, skills, and any relevant projects or internships you've completed.
2. **Networking:** Leverage your university's resources and network. Attend career fairs, join relevant student organizations, and connect with professors who may have industry contacts.
3. **Internships:** Consider applying for part-time internships in the field of communications. Internships often provide valuable hands-on experience and can lead to part-time job opportunities.
4. **Online Job Portals:** Check job search websites and portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor for part-time positions in communications. Set up job alerts to be notified of new listings.
5. **University Career Services:** Utilize your university's career services office. They can help you with job searches, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
6. **Freelancing:** Explore freelance opportunities in communications, such as content writing, social media management, or graphic design. Freelancing can be a flexible way to gain experience.
7. **Build an Online Presence:** Create an online portfolio or personal website showcasing your work and skills. This can impress potential employers and set you apart.
8. **Apply Early:** Start your job search well in advance. Part-time positions can be competitive, so applying early increases your chances of success.
9. **Customize Applications:** Tailor your job applications to each position you apply for. Highlight how your skills and experiences match the specific requirements of the job.
10. **Prepare for Interviews:** Practice your interviewing skills and be ready to discuss your coursework, projects, and any relevant experiences during interviews.
11. **Be Open to Learning:** Be open to entry-level positions or roles that may not exactly align with your career goals initially. Gain experience, and your path may evolve over time.
12. **Time Management:** Ensure that your part-time job doesn't overwhelm your college commitments. Time management is key to balancing work and academics effectively.
13. **Seek Feedback:** After interviews or job applications, ask for feedback, whether you get the job or not. This can help you improve your future applications.
Remember that landing a part-time job in communications might take some time and persistence, but the experience you gain will be invaluable for your career. Keep honing your skills, networking, and staying proactive in your job search. With determination and effort, you can secure a position in your field before graduating from Howard University.
1. **Build a Strong Resume:** Craft a well-structured resume that highlights your relevant coursework, skills, and any relevant projects or internships you've completed.
2. **Networking:** Leverage your university's resources and network. Attend career fairs, join relevant student organizations, and connect with professors who may have industry contacts.
3. **Internships:** Consider applying for part-time internships in the field of communications. Internships often provide valuable hands-on experience and can lead to part-time job opportunities.
4. **Online Job Portals:** Check job search websites and portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor for part-time positions in communications. Set up job alerts to be notified of new listings.
5. **University Career Services:** Utilize your university's career services office. They can help you with job searches, resume reviews, and interview preparation.
6. **Freelancing:** Explore freelance opportunities in communications, such as content writing, social media management, or graphic design. Freelancing can be a flexible way to gain experience.
7. **Build an Online Presence:** Create an online portfolio or personal website showcasing your work and skills. This can impress potential employers and set you apart.
8. **Apply Early:** Start your job search well in advance. Part-time positions can be competitive, so applying early increases your chances of success.
9. **Customize Applications:** Tailor your job applications to each position you apply for. Highlight how your skills and experiences match the specific requirements of the job.
10. **Prepare for Interviews:** Practice your interviewing skills and be ready to discuss your coursework, projects, and any relevant experiences during interviews.
11. **Be Open to Learning:** Be open to entry-level positions or roles that may not exactly align with your career goals initially. Gain experience, and your path may evolve over time.
12. **Time Management:** Ensure that your part-time job doesn't overwhelm your college commitments. Time management is key to balancing work and academics effectively.
13. **Seek Feedback:** After interviews or job applications, ask for feedback, whether you get the job or not. This can help you improve your future applications.
Remember that landing a part-time job in communications might take some time and persistence, but the experience you gain will be invaluable for your career. Keep honing your skills, networking, and staying proactive in your job search. With determination and effort, you can secure a position in your field before graduating from Howard University.
Updated
Jocelyn’s Answer
In the sunny season of summer, why not think about getting a job in customer service? It's a fantastic opportunity to polish up your chatting skills. Every day, you'll meet a whole bunch of different people, and it's a fun challenge to juggle tasks while digging up info to help out your customers. It's a great way to make your summer productive and enjoyable!
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Shakira’s Answer
Engaging in part-time work is fantastic, particularly while attending school. To find internships, try searching online with terms such as "communication internship" or "internships for communication majors." Furthermore, connect with your school's career center for assistance in crafting your resume and discovering internships. They frequently have connections with businesses, making it easier to secure a position.