8 answers
Chio
Student
Edinburg, Texas
5
Questions
Asked
657 views
How do you create opportunities in school when you have no support?
Hey everyone I've been struggling lately with looking for
opportunities to boost my resume as I'm lacking in being
involved. I have work and project experience but I would like to dive a little more into R&D. I already have one year of research with a professor but it's not in the field I'm
interested in. Our school only has a set amount of research and a set amount of student orgs. Anything else, good luck on getting funds and support. So in the end, students basically have the same resume but in different format and with different timelines. Out of the whole graduating class few get offers bc they all end up looking the same. I understand schools can't accommodate to ALL interests but my school only offers 3 different fields for research and if you're not interested well goodbye. I'd like to change that and create my own opportunities with what we have at school bc I have no money but I just don't see how. Anyone else on the same boat? I'm willing to hear any suggestions, I really need help.
I almost forgot to add: I have already talked to faculty for
different opportunities. Thanks to my on campus job I have a close relationship with some faculty. Every time I would ask, they would direct me to the same professors doing the same projects.
8 answers
Hakeem Ola Saka
Freelancer
64
Answers
Maryland Heights, Missouri
Updated
Hakeem Ola’s Answer
Here are some strategies you can consider:
1. Self-Education: Take advantage of resources outside of school to learn and develop skills. Online courses, tutorials, and books can be invaluable resources for self-education.
2. Networking: Build relationships with peers, teachers, and professionals in your field of interest. Attend school events, join clubs or organizations related to your interests, and seek out mentorship opportunities.
3. Initiative: Take the initiative to create your own projects or initiatives. Start a club, organize an event, or launch a community service project. Demonstrating leadership and initiative can attract support and recognition from others.
4. Utilize Online Platforms: Use online platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or professional forums to connect with people in your field, share your work, and seek advice or opportunities.
5. Internships or Volunteer Work: Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities related to your interests. Even if these opportunities are not directly available through your school, they can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
6. Seek Guidance Outside of School: If you're not receiving support from within your school, seek guidance from outside sources such as family members, community organizations, or online mentors.
7. Persistence and Resilience: Stay persistent and resilient in the face of challenges. Building opportunities often requires perseverance and the willingness to overcome obstacles.
1. Self-Education: Take advantage of resources outside of school to learn and develop skills. Online courses, tutorials, and books can be invaluable resources for self-education.
2. Networking: Build relationships with peers, teachers, and professionals in your field of interest. Attend school events, join clubs or organizations related to your interests, and seek out mentorship opportunities.
3. Initiative: Take the initiative to create your own projects or initiatives. Start a club, organize an event, or launch a community service project. Demonstrating leadership and initiative can attract support and recognition from others.
4. Utilize Online Platforms: Use online platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or professional forums to connect with people in your field, share your work, and seek advice or opportunities.
5. Internships or Volunteer Work: Look for internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities related to your interests. Even if these opportunities are not directly available through your school, they can provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
6. Seek Guidance Outside of School: If you're not receiving support from within your school, seek guidance from outside sources such as family members, community organizations, or online mentors.
7. Persistence and Resilience: Stay persistent and resilient in the face of challenges. Building opportunities often requires perseverance and the willingness to overcome obstacles.
Steph Stone
Musicologist
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Steph’s Answer
Hi! I'm very much in this same boat. While my university is very big and acclaimed, my major is very niche and there aren't a lot of opportunities, so I've had to find them myself and create my own. Firstly, I got a paid research job for two semesters just by talking to my professors about their research and asking them if they would take me on as an assistant. Sometimes, a position isn't available, but if you ask enough people someone might create a space for you. I got really lucky with my research job because I came out of it with a publication. While undergrads don't usually get paid for publications, you can always ask your professors for feedback on your work and start submitting it because publications really add a lot to your resume (if you're in a field that involves publication). I also got asked to speak at my school's research symposium. Even if you're not speaking, go to these research events; talk to other students about their research and introduce yourself to professors and superiors. The more contacts you have, the more likely someone is to reach out to you when they need someone for a job.
Also definitely try to get an internship. Obviously, a paid internship is very preferred for most people, but, if you can't find a paid internship you like and/or you can afford to not get paid from it, any internship is amazing for your resume as long as it's in your field and you enjoy it. The last thing is to find a part-time job that is in some way related to your field. For me, I study music history and this summer I have an unpaid internship at a music magazine doing the work I actually want to be doing forever, and I have a part-time job being a personal assistant to a musician which is very enjoyable and related to what I want to do, even if it's not perfectly in my field. I found those jobs on sites like indeed and Handshake because my school did not help me find jobs or internships AT ALL!! It sucks I feel you!! Send in applications anywhere you think you might like and send follow up emails to all of them. You also might be able to create your own job by cold calling and cold emailing places you might want to work and ask if they have any positions for undergrads. The worst they can do is say no, but still you made a good impression, and they have your info, so they might call you about an opening later.
It's important to remember that your school is far from being your only resource for this stuff. Reach out to any person who is doing what you want to be doing and any company that looks cool. Work on your own publications and scour the internet for opportunities that might interest you. You might stumble across the perfect thing by chance. Good luck hope this helps!
Also definitely try to get an internship. Obviously, a paid internship is very preferred for most people, but, if you can't find a paid internship you like and/or you can afford to not get paid from it, any internship is amazing for your resume as long as it's in your field and you enjoy it. The last thing is to find a part-time job that is in some way related to your field. For me, I study music history and this summer I have an unpaid internship at a music magazine doing the work I actually want to be doing forever, and I have a part-time job being a personal assistant to a musician which is very enjoyable and related to what I want to do, even if it's not perfectly in my field. I found those jobs on sites like indeed and Handshake because my school did not help me find jobs or internships AT ALL!! It sucks I feel you!! Send in applications anywhere you think you might like and send follow up emails to all of them. You also might be able to create your own job by cold calling and cold emailing places you might want to work and ask if they have any positions for undergrads. The worst they can do is say no, but still you made a good impression, and they have your info, so they might call you about an opening later.
It's important to remember that your school is far from being your only resource for this stuff. Reach out to any person who is doing what you want to be doing and any company that looks cool. Work on your own publications and scour the internet for opportunities that might interest you. You might stumble across the perfect thing by chance. Good luck hope this helps!
Ashley Tate
Solutions Manager
5
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Creating opportunities in school without support can be challenging, but it is definitely achievable with determination and resourcefulness. Here are some strategies to help you create opportunities:
1. Self-Motivation and Goal Setting:
- Set clear, achievable goals for what you want to accomplish.
- Develop a plan with specific steps to reach those goals.
- Stay motivated by reminding yourself of the bigger picture and your long-term aspirations.
2. Utilize Available Resources:
- Take full advantage of school resources such as libraries, online databases, and study centers.
- Attend workshops, seminars, and any free events offered by your school.
3. Build Relationships:
- Network with classmates, teachers, and school staff. Forming connections can lead to support and new opportunities.
- Join clubs, organizations, or study groups to meet like-minded individuals who can offer assistance and encouragement.
4. Seek Out Mentors:
- Look for mentors among your teachers, older students, or professionals in your field of interest.
- Reach out and ask for guidance, advice, and support. Most people are willing to help if they see you are genuinely interested and proactive.
5. Apply for Scholarships and Grants:
- Research and apply for scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs that can provide support.
- Many organizations and institutions offer funding for students who show promise and need.
6. Gain Experience Through Volunteering and Internships:
- Look for volunteer opportunities or internships related to your field. These experiences can provide valuable skills and connections.
- Even unpaid opportunities can lead to networking, learning, and future job prospects.
By implementing these strategies, you can create opportunities for yourself, even in the absence of external support. Your initiative, resilience, and willingness to seek out and take advantage of resources can pave the way for academic and personal success.
1. Self-Motivation and Goal Setting:
- Set clear, achievable goals for what you want to accomplish.
- Develop a plan with specific steps to reach those goals.
- Stay motivated by reminding yourself of the bigger picture and your long-term aspirations.
2. Utilize Available Resources:
- Take full advantage of school resources such as libraries, online databases, and study centers.
- Attend workshops, seminars, and any free events offered by your school.
3. Build Relationships:
- Network with classmates, teachers, and school staff. Forming connections can lead to support and new opportunities.
- Join clubs, organizations, or study groups to meet like-minded individuals who can offer assistance and encouragement.
4. Seek Out Mentors:
- Look for mentors among your teachers, older students, or professionals in your field of interest.
- Reach out and ask for guidance, advice, and support. Most people are willing to help if they see you are genuinely interested and proactive.
5. Apply for Scholarships and Grants:
- Research and apply for scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs that can provide support.
- Many organizations and institutions offer funding for students who show promise and need.
6. Gain Experience Through Volunteering and Internships:
- Look for volunteer opportunities or internships related to your field. These experiences can provide valuable skills and connections.
- Even unpaid opportunities can lead to networking, learning, and future job prospects.
By implementing these strategies, you can create opportunities for yourself, even in the absence of external support. Your initiative, resilience, and willingness to seek out and take advantage of resources can pave the way for academic and personal success.
casey may
Marketing Director
5
Answers
Holden, Massachusetts
Updated
casey’s Answer
network, ask questions, find people who are doing what you want to do and shadow them!
Mark Paternostro
Senior Manager in Corporate Intelligence Services
4
Answers
Plainfield, Illinois
Updated
Mark’s Answer
Tagging on all of the great advice above - the one around building out your professional network is a great way! Its also proactively setting yourself up for your career search, and once in your career it will help you advance. An easy way to start building a network is through LinkedIn. Setup your LinkedIn profile and instead of job history, you can leverage that area to put projects, etc. that demonstrate your history and capabilities. Then simply start seeking companies and individuals through LinkedIn that fall in line with your goals and work towards connecting with them. That may also be a way that you'd be able to identify a mentor. Good luck!
Heather Palacios
Functional Consultant - Human Resources (Talent Acquisition)
5
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Heather’s Answer
Yep! Definitely network and self-educate. Look for potential employment opportunities that may give you the skills and experience you need in your desired field. You can even consider interning for a few months.
Look for opportunities to learn on your own. There are so many things that you can learn for free these days. Research the most in-demand skills and start learning asap.
Join clubs and organizations that cater to your interests for sure. Try to find a mentor in the field.
Finally, and I'm not sure if this is an option for you, but maybe consider changing schools to one that offers more opportunity for growth and participation in different organizations.
Wish you the best of luck!! It will all work out in the end!!
Look for opportunities to learn on your own. There are so many things that you can learn for free these days. Research the most in-demand skills and start learning asap.
Join clubs and organizations that cater to your interests for sure. Try to find a mentor in the field.
Finally, and I'm not sure if this is an option for you, but maybe consider changing schools to one that offers more opportunity for growth and participation in different organizations.
Wish you the best of luck!! It will all work out in the end!!
Joanna Rose Mañaol, CPA, CISA
IT Auditor
200
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Joanna Rose’s Answer
Hi Chio,
Creating opportunities in school without support requires initiative and resourcefulness. Start by identifying your interests and goals, and then seek out clubs, groups, or extracurricular activities that align with them. If such opportunities don't exist, consider starting your own group or project to gather like-minded peers. Additionally, leveraging online resources and platforms for learning and networking can also open new avenues for growth and connection.
Creating opportunities in school without support requires initiative and resourcefulness. Start by identifying your interests and goals, and then seek out clubs, groups, or extracurricular activities that align with them. If such opportunities don't exist, consider starting your own group or project to gather like-minded peers. Additionally, leveraging online resources and platforms for learning and networking can also open new avenues for growth and connection.
Art Allen
Retired Mechanical engineer
17
Answers
Mead, Washington
Updated
Art’s Answer
In addition to # 2 Networking above, you really should find a Mentor. A person that is knowledgeable in the field that you want to enter. This person should be in that field with years of experience that can answer your questions and give you insider insight. Meet with your mentor at a coffee shop a public place or at their office or place of employment. Feel free to ask any questions and concerns that you might have and also ask for suggestions to get you on track as soon as possible, if it turns out that you change your mind or direction you can continue with the same mentor or find a new one.
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