Nothing says “Homecoming” like unsolicited advice from your esteemed alumni. Fortunately for you, I’ve only been out of school for a year, so my advice is limited. But if I were to impart one nugget of wisdom, it would be this: do an internship, or better yet, do several internships.
I did three. I’m not saying everyone has to do three, but I am well on my way to fame and fortune, so it’s highly recommended. Not really, but my resume looks pretty decent for a 22-year-old who otherwise would have been including skills like “pancake connoisseur.”
For me, internships have been like dating, but for my career. People invest a lot in dating, often with hopes of finding that person who brings out the best in them and is into all the same TV shows.
If you wouldn’t settle when choosing a significant other, why would you settle when choosing your career?
Instead of taking up a routine job this summer, start reaching out to organizations now to get to know your future career. Here are a few tips to help in your search for true (career) love:
No. 1: Don’t expect to meet in all the typical places.
People often connect through mutual friends, school or online. This is also often true for finding employment, but don’t be discouraged if you can’t find it in all the usual places. Just because a job isn’t posted doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist — which leads me to:
No. 2: Put yourself out there.
Be a go-getter. While it would be great to live in a world where people can read minds and pick up hints, that’s not always realistic. Sometimes you have to say, “Hello. I am kind of a catch.” Reach out to interesting organizations, let them know you have skills and see what happens.
No. 3: Don’t act too cool.
Even if you are a catch, there’s a line between confidence and arrogance. Keep your resume refined and accurate. Be yourself, but definitely be the humble, kind, well-dressed, punctual version as much as possible.
No. 4: Care about what they’re interested in.
No employer wants to hire you because of how it might benefit you. They may care about your success, but that won’t be the reason they hire you. Be clear on how you can help them achieve their goals before pursuing your own.
No. 5: Realize what you’re looking for — or not.
Some people end up with the first person they go out with, which is great and fortunate. However, sometimes you date and realize it isn’t a good match. The same goes for your career. I quickly learned in my internships what I was interested in, and what kind of work environments I preferred.
One of my internships paid well, but it wasn’t an enjoyable experience. Another internship paid little, but I loved the work and the people.
A final piece of advice: as true with your career as it is for your personal life — never marry for money.
