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Is it best to start applying to work at school directly out of college or to wait?
High School Senior #college-advice #student #college
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6 answers
Updated
Bob’s Answer
It does depend on the field you would like to enter. In some fields students start applying during the first semester of their last year. Your school may have job fairs where you can meet employers. In these times job fairs are commonly being done virtually.
If your school has career counselors, I encourage you to meet with one to obtain their advise on the timing and approach for you to find your first job out of school.
If your school has career counselors, I encourage you to meet with one to obtain their advise on the timing and approach for you to find your first job out of school.
Updated
Kashay’s Answer
Interesting question! While there is no "best," I can share my experience.
I happened to be interested in jobs that didn't require an immediate start date, so it made sense for me to start applying early. If you have interest in things like: professional fellowships, Peace Corps, research scholarships etc., they have deadlines in the winter before graduation.
If you are going directly into the workforce, it makes sense to start applying towards the tail end of senior year. While it was stressful to balance applications and school, I saw that the relief of knowing what to do after graduation was worth it for my peers.
Last, if you choose to go a large private sector company, there may be a different process. Some companies have you intern a full year before you graduate, and offer you a job before you even start your senior year!
In short, some of this depends on the path you choose. But generally, I saw it was helpful for people to get the process started during their senior year.
I happened to be interested in jobs that didn't require an immediate start date, so it made sense for me to start applying early. If you have interest in things like: professional fellowships, Peace Corps, research scholarships etc., they have deadlines in the winter before graduation.
If you are going directly into the workforce, it makes sense to start applying towards the tail end of senior year. While it was stressful to balance applications and school, I saw that the relief of knowing what to do after graduation was worth it for my peers.
Last, if you choose to go a large private sector company, there may be a different process. Some companies have you intern a full year before you graduate, and offer you a job before you even start your senior year!
In short, some of this depends on the path you choose. But generally, I saw it was helpful for people to get the process started during their senior year.
Updated
Liezl’s Answer
It depends on the field you're looking to enter. But if you know you want to have a job right out of college, you should already start applying during your senior year. Some entry level programs, like at consulting companies, may have a certain number of spots for entry level hires. The sooner you get started with applying, the better. I don't see an advantage to waiting unless you intentionally want to take time off after graduation.
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
It really depends on your financial situation. If your parents are helping it’s easier to wait, if not then it makes it a bit harder. If you really want a job right after college I would be applying for internships to get some experience, then afterwards start applying to jobs. It will take multiple interviews most likely but don’t be discouraged. It is literally a numbers game. Good luck!
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Jake’s Answer
Most likely, however it can very. If you can do an internship in college, I would highly recommend that. Most of my friends in college who did an internship were hired at the company after graduation! As someone who didn't do an internship, I can say looking for a job, is a full time job and very stressful.
No matter the situation, just remember, someone out there needs a you!
No matter the situation, just remember, someone out there needs a you!
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Be sure to visit your College Career Services (could also include Career Development offices) EARLY in your post secondary career. They offer rich resources like resume assistance and job search platforms. They also offer career fairs and some are part of statewide collaborative partnerships for major job search events and employer networking. Example 1 OHIO - https://www.ohiohighered.org/campuses - Example 2 GEORGIA -GACE (https://www.gace.org/) . This all to assist you with networking with many employers, and better understanding for application procedures and timelines.