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Job Search

Student Job Search Process

1. Make a Plan & Get Organized

• Define your career focus: roles, organizations, values and skills.
• Prepare a tailored résumé and cover letter for the specific jobs you are interested in.
• Set a timeline and use a tracking tool/spreadsheet to monitor applications, networking contacts, interviews and deadlines.

2. Do Your Research

• Create a list of organizations in your fields of interest and geographic area.
• Investigate companies/industries to understand culture, typical roles and employee experiences.

3. Network

• Let people in your network know you’re job searching and what kinds of opportunities you’re seeking.
• Utilize LinkedIn, the and career/networking events to connect with alumni and other professionals, expanding your network.

4. Apply Strategically

• Seek out opportunities through networking and online job boards.
• Tailor your résumé, cover letter and any required work samples for each position.
• Submit materials ahead of deadlines.

5. Follow Up

• Confirm receipt of your application when appropriate.
• Follow the organization’s preferred communication guidelines.

6. Prepare for Interviews

• Boost your confidence and professionalism by practicing common interview questions and thoughtful responses to each one.
• Review your research. This preparation will help you speak confidently about the organization during the interview.
• Schedule a mock interview via to simulate the experience and get feedback.

What If It Doesn’t Go to Plan?(Graduating or No Offer Yet)

• Early in spring: Focus on sharpening materials and networking while still on campus.
• Mid-year: Expand your search, make remote contacts and explore geographic options.
• After moving: Attend in-person networking, consider part-time or temporary work while searching and maintain momentum by setting daily outreach goals.

Helpful Resources & Tools

• Job boards and search tools (, etc.)
• Salary and cost-of-living information (e.g. , )
• Templates and

Gap Year Options

A gap year experience is intended to give graduates a purposeful full-time volunteer or paid opportunity to explore and gain life or work experience in a field before going into a full-time job, graduate/professional school. These programs provide exposure to meaningful and different types of work that allow graduates to gain valuable professional experience, develop and refine skills and clarify interests. The duration of a gap experience ranges from one to three years and examples include Peace Corps, Teach for America and AmeriCorps, yet there are many other options tied to a range of fields, including:

• Nonprofit
• Business
• Research
• Government
• Environment
• Adventure

Teaching Residency Programs

Teaching fellowships are available in many states and most major cities. Many lasting for more than a year, and some include a graduate degree in education as a part of the contract. Training is provided to obtain teacher certification, and many programs partner with universities to provide a master’s degree in education. Compensation is typically, but not always, at the same level as a beginning teacher’s salary.

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Overseas Work Authorization

• : Information and services for individuals looking for short-term (up to a year, depending on location) work abroad and gives profiles on individuals who have already gone overseas
• : Information and services for individuals looking for internships, teaching overseas and short-term work in Europe
• : Lists websites of U.S. embassies, consulates and diplomatic missions

How the Boerigter Center Can Help

• Schedule a one-on-one career coaching meeting via .
• Get feedback on your résumé, cover letter, and interview skills.
• Use campus events to network, practice, and explore opportunities.