Message to Recent College Grads

Did you graduate college last spring and still are not working? Have you focused on finding that perfect dream job and found interviews are nearly impossible to obtain? Are your parents getting on your case to find something, anything at all? If so, you are definitely not alone!

When I worked for a trade school, we classified jobs as directly related to your training, closely related, somewhat relate, unrelated. The current economy makes the first option is a real challenge but the second and third might be reachable.

Let us assume for a minute that you have a degree in Elementary Education. If you happen to live in NJ, a man they are touting as one of the greatest governors of all time, took away your chance of a directly related job this year. Closely related is still a possibility as I see postings all the time from learning centers, such as Sylvan and smaller privately owned groups, looking for qualified teachers to teach basic skills, SAT prep, etc. Certainly, this is not an awful alternative. Somewhat related jobs would include working in a before or after care program providing homework assistance or getting a job in a religious school teaching youngsters. At the minimum, the alternative jobs put some money in your pocket and give you something for your resume.

This process applies to any educational path you have just completed. Contact me if you want some ideas and directions!

Advice to College Seniors

March 1 will be here tomorrow. Most college seniors will be done with their studies in 8-12 weeks. If you are not heading off to graduate school, I hope you are actively pursuing employment opportunities now! A few things to keep in mind include making sure your resume is ready to go (send me a copy if you wish), your references are aware that they are on your list, and that you have visited your school's Career Services office more than once and are keeping in constant contact with them. I worked in that field for many years and assure you that the students who kept most in touch with me were the ones most likely to find a job before graduation. There are jobs available to you but you will need all the help you can get to find the right one!