Tips for New College Students

It is only a short while till graduation and the question that’s stuck on everyone’s mind is what you’ll do after completing your academic studies.

Going into the “real world” as a fresh-out-of-school candidate can be a challenging phase in life, most so when you have students’ loans to pay back and a dwindling job market. Fortunately, if you commit your time to plan and develop strategies, you may “land” an excellent job position that matches your dream career. We have compiled some practical tips to help experience a smooth transition from school to career.

1. Enhance Your Hands-On Skills

When you find a favorable job vacancy, one of the critical elements is the job description. This section details both the skills required to undertake the job. Look for a means to acquire the required skills. Luckily, many online platforms, such as KhanAcademy and Lynda, offer effective skill-enhancing programs.

Getting an accreditation in Google Analytics and Ads is an added advantage when applying for a job position. It is something most employers are searching for in this technological era.

2. Build a Portfolio

Some industrial sectors, like architecture and interior design, require job applicants to have a portfolio. Hence, organize all the projects you have undertaken in a file before you apply. It gives you an edge over other candidates because you’ll be all-ready organized when most of them scramble to create a portfolio.

It pays to master this habit, whether or not your prospective job position requires a portfolio or not. Most talent searchers are often impressed when they deal with such a candidate. It signals your dedication to get the job.

3. Don’t Merely Apply, Do It Smartly

When you think of applying for a job, remember that quality overcomes quantity. Applying for many jobs hoping that someone will hire you will never yield the desired results. Instead, focus on a handful of job vacancies that you want and the ones that will likely to require your skills.

The secret is to do your homework. Find out what your prospective employer is looking for in their ideal candidate. Additionally, understand the company’s mission, objectives and core values. Albeit that might take a considerable time, it pays in the long run. A resume that resonates with an organization’s requirements captures the recruitment team.

4. Align Your Costs and Expenses

Once you complete school, you are responsible for your finances, and it’s one thing you need to be excited and cautious about. Some costs such as rent, monthly bills, and loan payments will be shouldered on you.

Let’s face it; saving money is challenging in a world that requires hard cash. For college students who have difficulty managing their finances, there are several online tools you can use for that. They include Manilla, HomeBudget, Mvelopes. They can also help you set practical financial goals.

5. Have a Positive Attitude

Trying to maneuver the transition from college to independence can be confusing and stressful. However, with the right attitude, you will make significant progress in your budding career to capture the attention of some of your industry’s coveted employers.

According to several studies, welcoming happiness and positivity is better than harboring negative thoughts. Perform a self-evaluation and determine what your interests are. If it is hanging out with friends, painting, ort listening to music, embrace it. It will enhance your progress in other aspects of life.