How soon-to-be grads should prepare for the workplace
Expert gives tips and tricks for future grads
Students tend to face the end of their academic careers after graduating in May. The pressure rises as they hunt for their ideal career, apply for jobs or join the professional workforce.
It’s never too late to plan for success, said Erica O’Toole, associate director at the Career Development Center. The Career Development Center is one of the resources students can rely on for support throughout the job application process.
Filling in competency gaps
Students can boost their resumes by filling in any missing professional and interpersonal skills on their resumes. The Career Development Center helps students develop these skills, a set of eight NACE competencies employers look for.
They can develop NACE competencies by participating in registered student organizations and exploring their college’s professional organizations. Students can also volunteer, study abroad or participate in an internship.
The Career Development Center helps students apply skills learned from their classroom assignments to their resumes.
“It’s all about showing that you’re a well-rounded individual, so take advantage of what you have at CMU, because that can be huge for your growth and professional development,” O'Toole said.
Never stop networking
There’s some truth to the adage that it’s not what you know—it's who you know. Networking lets students see how industries operate behind the scenes.
As CMU alumni love supporting current students, networking is a powerful tool. It’s never too late to reach out for support, either before or after graduation. The CMU Alumni phone app and social media networks can help students and alums keep in touch.
The Career Development Center can assist students who need the support, O’Toole said.
Plan to succeed
Students can meet with career advisors in one-one-one meetings and request a resume or cover letter critique. They can personalize their resumes for job searches and do mock interviews to prepare for interview questions.
During their appointments, students can personalize job applications to fit specific organizations or career paths. Tailoring your applications to the job description is an effective strategy that demonstrates dedication to the company or organization.
“The biggest thing is the effort you put in,” O’Toole said. “You show your passion for that company when you customize your applications.”
Make a great impression
First Impressions breaks financial barriers to professional attire, she said. All CMU students can sign up for an appointment with a stylist once a semester to choose a professional outfit.
It’s a service all students can use, regardless of their financial status.
“We named it First Impressions because it’s a big part of the interview,” O’Toole said. “How you present yourself has a big impact on the hiring process.”
After CMU
Alumni are part of the CMU family. They still can access the tools and resources in the Career Development Center, whether to refine their resumes or prepare for a promotion 20 years down the line.
They are more than welcome to join the alumni network and assist an enterprising CMU student down the road.
