Do you have a college student going to school right now? With spring around the corner and summer coming up, now is the perfect time for them to consider summer jobs and internships. Those who act early often land the most rewarding positions.
Where college may lead for your student a few years down the road may not be on your mind right now – and it’s surely the last thing your young adult wants to think about.
BUT, in my observation as someone who works in university career services, it is not too soon to start the process! Key distinguishing features of the student who graduates with a good job in hand are:
- They begin talking early and often with a career coach on campus about their interests and options
- They build relationships within the career center, and with their professors and advisors
- They take advantage of employer engagement in campus activities like information nights, meet and greets, career fairs, etc.
- They follow up with the recruiters they meet, and make sure their name becomes familiar
- They’re checking the career services job board, noting deadlines for summer internships (the most prestigious are in the Fall!) and they go for an internship over going back to the same summer job they had in high school
And, here’s the truth…though you may not love it. If you’re hearing from your child that the college career counselor *sucks*, it’s just possible you’re not getting the full picture. Ask them if they are doing all of the things above. College career services is NOT a placement office. We provide services, and the students who do best are those that take full advantage of them.
Sending strength to all of my parents and caregivers out there. You got this!
I am a career REBEL!
I define my work.
My career is in my hands.
I stand up for who I am and how I contribute to the greater good.
I will invest my portfolio of knowledge, skills, and abilities
where they will earn the most significant return.
