WELCOME... COLLEGE FRESHMAN POST-GRAD TECHNICAL/TRADE STUDENTS (AI-Approved!)

It's never too early to job-prepare for your next diploma/certificate.

The most effective way for freshmen/trade students to prepare for the post-graduate job market is to self-assess and explore career interests. Focus on not only completing course requirements, but understanding and using your innate skills to help you excel. Gain experience outside the class, find a mentor and develop in-demand soft skills--you can build on.

• Explore interests and skills: Your freshman/first post-grad year is the perfect time to understand your strengths, weaknesses, passions, and values. Use this self-awareness to make informed career decisions that align with your personality.

• Choose a relevant major: Select a major that aligns with your career aspirations and the future job. market. Taking a double-major is wise--one can be your passion and the second could involve tech or business to give you a great foundation.

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  companies and industries: Start looking into companies and fields that interest you. Learn about their values, culture, and skills they demand. This research will help you tailor your resume and determine if a company is a good fit. 

• Develop your soft skills: critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. This will give you an edge in the workforce.

  

Gain real-world experience

• Pursue part-time jobs and internships: Even paid or unpaid opportunities can provide invaluable experience and transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and time management. Internships can also help you explore career paths and determine what you like.

• Start a side business: Use college as a low-risk environment to test your entrepreneurial ideas. This demonstrates ambition and gives you hands-on business experience that is valuable to any employer.

• Volunteer: Community service is an excellent way to gain practical experience, develop interpersonal skills, and give back. Look for local organizations or campus groups that align with your interests or career goals.

• Engage in extracurriculars: Join student organizations, clubs, and sports teams to gain leadership experience, build teamwork skills, and demonstrate your initiative. Leadership roles in particular can make you stand out to employers. 

Start building your professional brand

• Build your resume: It's never too early to start. List your academic achievements, part-time jobs, and extracurriculars to start a draft. A functional resume, which emphasizes skills over work history, is a great option for freshmen.

• Create a professional online presence: Clean up your personal social media and create a professional LinkedIn profile. Use a professional headshot, highlight your education and projects, and start connecting with alumni, professors, and professionals in your field.

• Attend career fairs and events: Go to campus events early in your college career to meet recruiters and learn what employers are seeking. Use these opportunities to practice your "elevator pitch" and build confidence.

• EDITOR'S NOTE--Also, enjoy the day-to-day experience. As many alumni can tell you, it goes by too fast. While you're doing the above tips, also spend some time with positive college experiences.