Karen
What is the first step after graduating college?
I am a student going into my third year of high school. College is coming up really soon and I want to be ready and prepared when I graduate college. A lot of people don't seem like they know what to do after they actually get their degree. I want to use my time to the fullest and I don't want to waste years after college trying to find a job. Please give me any advice about this type of situation and tell me about your own experiences. #college #job-search #preparation #after-graduation
3 answers
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Hi Karen!
Ken gives excellent advice, so it is difficult to come along behind him!
But, let me add a few "don'ts"
Don't think you have to go into X because everyone in your family is an X.
Don't think you have to do X because that is what your parents want you to do, and they are footing the bill. It is better to pay your own way and be happy than to follow someone else's life plan for you.
Don't be afraid to say part-way through, "oops, this is not for me," do a 180 and go in some totally different direction, even if it means an extra year or two of school.
If you have a general direction/major that you would like to share with us, we could give more specific advice.
Oh, and join LinkedIn, and join some of the career-specific groups, so you can learn what people in your field are talking about, and even join in the discussions!
Jack Dulberger
Jack’s Answer
The single best way to gain an edge in getting your first job after college is working as a company intern during college.
The reason is that while interning, you will have a chance to try out different jobs and the opportunity to allow the employer to get to know you personally.
It's a well-known fact that people hire other people whom they already have experience with, rather than people coming in "cold."
Jack recommends the following next steps:
