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Preparing for Graduation
Graduation time is quickly approaching and many students are anxiously awaiting their graduation walk or the parties that follow. However, there is still some time to do some very important things before you leave your college behind you. Here are some advice and preparation tips for students that are soon to graduate.
Connect with Professors
Believe it or not, your professors are professionals in the fields you are about to enter into. They have connections with other professionals in the working world. Therefore, if you have not already, you will want to talk with and connect to your professors. They may even be able to help you get interviews with companies that would not usually look at a newly graduated student. Also, connect with them on LinkedIn. If you do not have a LinkedIn, I suggest you get one. It is the social network for working professionals.
Ask for a Recommendation
This is important because employers will want to talk to people (not family or friends) for references. They may even want to see a letter of recommendation. If you are planning on attending a graduate school, then you are going to need letters of recommendation for your application. Most ask for about three, but it would not hurt to have more. Don’t hold this off until after graduation. Ask your professors if you can use them as a reference and/or if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation while you are still fresh in their memory, not six months down the road.
Attend a Career Fair
Most colleges have career/job fairs. This is a great way to start looking for a career, since it may take a while. On average it takes a college graduate three to nine month to get a job. This is also a great way to ‘put-a-face-to-a-name’ for the companies attending. Also, don’t forget to take advantage of your university’s career center. They usually will have counseling, job listings or other resources that could help you land a job.
Start Thinking About What Happens Next
College graduation is a huge life event. The majority of students are coming out with college debt from student loans and are having to think about finances. Many will return home to live with their parents. If this is you, then you are probably thinking about what all you need to do to move. Luckily, there are options to make that easier and more affordable. For instance, eShipNOW can help you ship your personal belongings back home at discounted shipping rates. If you don’t plan on renting a trailer or driving back home it is a great option that can help.
Relax
This is another important one and one I am sure most of you will enjoy. Relax! You have just completed years of college education and probably are suffering from senioritis. You are almost done! Midterms are over and the only other thing you need to worry about are finals. Take a break and enjoy the last remaining weeks of college life!
By: Ashleigh Cue
