By Angel Roggie
Associate Editor
Between the stress of capstone projects and classes, the fun of 100 Days and checking off items on Bona’s bucket lists, some seniors have a lot to think about in their final semester at St. Bonaventure – including finding a job.
Many seniors have begun the laborious and nerve-wracking process of applying for jobs and trying to secure one for after graduation. However, according to Angie Wolfe, assistant director of the Career and Professional Readiness Center (CPRC), the process does not have to be so intense and seniors can find more effective ways to tackle the job market.
Wolfe said there are many things a student can do to get ready for the job world. She suggests developing an organized plan, polishing your personal brand, creating a LinkedIn profile, keeping in touch with positive references and tailoring each résumé and cover letter you write to custom fit the positions you are applying for.
According to Wolfe, in addition to these basic tenants of job searching, students should also take further steps to set themselves apart.
“Develop a target list of employers based on research and conduct informational interviews,” Wolfe said. “Build a network and a portfolio of skills and job experience by volunteering for non-profits in appropriate positions. Be flexible, willing to explore alternatives and tenacious – never stop following up.”
She recommended that students join appropriate LinkedIn Groups as well, including SBU alumni groups and relevant field-specific groups. Wolfe said they help a job seeker meet other members, learn about certain industry issues, get an insiders view of companies and build alliances outside of the Bona Bubble.
Wolfe also pointed out most seniors make the mistake of only applying for jobs online and concentrating on one’s online visibility, instead of growing one’s personal brand and making important contacts.
“It is so much easier to search on the internet for jobs, submit résumés and electronic applications and feel like one is doing a lot in their search,” she said. “However, the problem is that most available positions go unposted, and the best way to find and secure opportunities is through networking.”
Senior marketing major Sarah Gaulin, is in the process of looking for jobs. She agrees with Wolfe that networking is the key to getting the job you want.
“I have been actively working with a board of trustee member, the Career and Professional Readiness Center and alumni services to make alumni connections to better my chance of getting a job upon graduation,” Gaulin said.
Besides networking, senior bioinformatics major Katrina Teeter said job seekers should also be diligent and have a fully rounded résumé filled with activities.
“Work hard and sell yourself,” Teeter said. “The more you are involved, the more the companies will see you are outgoing, work well with others and are passionate about your work and life.”
Senior English and journalism and mass communication major Tim Crino said he believes a well-written résumé and cover letter can help a student land that first interview.
“I structure my résumé so that my related experience is at the top,” Crino said. “If a cover letter is required, I try to show a strong interest in both the field and the company itself.”
Seniors seeking jobs each have their own career path to follow, and Gaulin said she believes that Bonaventure and the CPRC have helped her on her job journey.
“I think Bonaventure has definitely prepared me for the application and interview process, as well as getting me ready to join the workforce in just a couple months,” Gaulin said.
Wolfe said the CPRC is glad to help every student in securing a job in their field and has a number of services to assist seniors, including résumé writing and critiques, cover letter and personal statement reviews, LinkedIn profile creation and review sessions and internship and job postings via the College Central network. She also mentioned the interactive and social ways the CPRC helps students prepare for the career world, including alumni networking events, etiquette dinners, practice interviews, career fairs and conversations with field professionals.
Wolfe encouraged all students to check out the CPRC’s events calendar to see what they have to offer.
“Maximize your engagement with free services on campus while you can,” Wolfe said.
