The job competition for recent graduates is getting tougher and tougher… for some students. The students that think outside the box and discover financial jobs not in New York City, optics jobs not in Silicon Valley or medical schools not in Boston definitely have a step up on their competition.
There are so many occupations in the world these days that you cannot rely on the Career Center to help you find all of them. The Career Center does a great job of preparing you for the workforce, but you have to take responsibility and find that niche job that you enjoy. How can you do this?

• Use any conversation as a networking opportunity. Sitting on a plane, working out at the gym, waiting in line at the bar… these are all great times to strike up a conversation. You never know who knows who!
• Don’t cross off locations so quickly. Being in the Northeast often pigeon-holes recent graduates. Think about all of the other great cities in this country that have great companies to work for and go after it. Research job opportunities by location rather than a field of interest. You’ll be amazed at what you can find.
• If you think you are interested in the job, apply for it! If anything else, the interview is great practice.
• Tailor your resume for each job you apply for. Employers can recognize “generic” resumes very easily. Look at the job description and model your resume after it. Yes, it takes time, but this is your future — you want the best job you can get!
• Put “additional interests” on your resume. The more you can separate yourself from the competition, the better!
• Use alumni. Alumni love to hear from current students. Don’t be afraid to call/e-mail them. Remember, they went through the same rigorous curriculum that you went through. They appreciate what you’re going through.

After you find a job that you think would be a good fit for you, check in with the Career Center to see how they can help you. Have fun with the job search and relax. If you do your work, you will get a job.