So, you’re graduating! You only have weeks, 19 days to be exact, until you are done with school. How exciting! Have you thought about where you are headed after OSU? No? It’s never too late to get started with the job search process.

First, you have to know yourself and what you have to offer as a professional. Take time to reflect on past experiences such as jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities that have allowed you to gain skills that are transferrable to the workplace. We have put together a WORKBOOK to help you get started on this important step in the job search process.

Once you have an idea of what you bring to the table, start putting it down on paper. If you don’t know where to start, take a look at our website, including the link to our CAREER GUIDE, there are great tips and formats that will get your creative wheels churning. After you have completed a resume draft, come down to Career Services to have one of our Career Assistants review it and give you feedback. We offer drop-in hours every week from 1-4pm Monday through Thursday.

Finally, once you have your resume complete, its time to start applying for jobs! Here are a few things to remember:

• You should always tailor your resume to specific jobs. Employers can tell when generic resumes are submitted and they often get discarded immediately.
• References: Always ask before submitting. Be sure to ask anyone you would like to list as a reference that they feel comfortable giving you a positive recommendation and keep them informed about what jobs you are applying for by providing them with the specific job description and a copy of your resume.
• It’s all about who you know. 70 % of jobs are gained through networking! Talk to professors, mentors, and your parents or their friends to see if they know of any jobs that are available.

If you need more assistance with the job search process, you can also make an appointment with a career counselor/advisor at 541-737-4085. We can help you brainstorm some ideas, provide resources, and get you connected with others.

Congratulations to the Oregon State University Class of 2011! GOOD LUCK and GO BEAVS!!

Posted by Linsey Baker, Career Services Assistant