We all know that the world of work has changed and will continue to change, but it’s not always easy to figure out how we fit in. Here are 10 career advice for students in the USA!
1. Learn more about the industry in which you would like to work, by reading blogs written by leaders in that field or watching videos on YouTube of talks given by people who are experts in their respective fields. For example, TED’s website has over 18000 talks!
2. Make connections with professionals who work within the industries that interest you; it could be through Twitter, Linked In, or even at school events. You never know where friendships will lead!
3. Explore internships and coops while attending college because they can give valuable experience as well as employable skills such as writing abilities, design skills, or knowledge of specific software.
4. Be clear with yourself about what is important to you in a job: the company culture, salary, or location? Once you know what’s most important to you, it will be easier to find an employer that fits this criterion.
5. Get involved on campus through clubs, organizations, and committees so that when graduation time comes around, employers are familiar with who they’ll hire as new employees. Be sure not only to explore groups related directly to majors but also that outside of major areas because these activities often provide valuable skills for the workplace as well!
6. Don’t neglect interviewing skills like researching companies before interview dates (knowing their values), practising responses ahead of time (bring examples), and dressing appropriately.
7. Learn how to negotiate your salary, benefits, and other job-related topics from a perspective of value rather than just settling for what you’re offered.
8. Prepare yourself with soft skills like communication, problem-solving, empathy, and critical thinking through clubs or organizations on campus (and even outside) so that when it’s time to enter the workforce in grad school or elsewhere you’ll be more prepared!
9. Research what you want to do.
10. Take a break and explore your options before committing to life.
Some advice for building Career in the USA:
The number one tip for students just starting their academic careers is finding internships. Not only do they provide hands-on experience in your desired industry but also offer networking connections. It’s important to start early as internships are sometimes only offered for a few months.
The number two tip is to connect with organizations outside of schools that will offer opportunities within those industries. Usually, these groups have more flexible hours than most businesses so it can be easier to balance work obligations while pursuing your degree if you’re willing to take the extra step. And there’s no reason why students should be shy about getting in touch with these organizations.
Number three tip is not a secret but doesn’t forget that networking makes all the difference in getting your name and resume circulated among people who are hiring. The best way to network? Attend events related to industries or fields where you want to work so that you have opportunities to talk with people face-to-face (or at least voice!) about their jobs.
Number four tip is about finding a mentor, which can be as simple as asking your professor or TA to serve in that capacity. A new study suggests that mentorship may have an even bigger impact than scholarships when it comes to college attainment rates.
Number five tip is take advantage of internships and other on-campus employment opportunities! They are a great way to get your foot in the door, improve your resume, earn some money, build connections with employers or mentors, and explore career paths before you graduate.”
Lastly don’t forget about experiencing life outside of academics-volunteer opportunities are available if you want to gain valuable experience without paying an arm and a leg! Remember: everyone starts somewhere; making mistakes is part of learning how things work out there and gaining experiences will make grad schools much happier as well!”
By – Priyanka Dhillon
