UVM Career Services Blog

Savvy Seniors: Networking Advice from a Recent Grad

Posted on November 15, 2012 with No Comments

Trisha Hlastawa, ’12,  graduated with a degree in Community Entrepreneurship and Public Communication. She currently works at Healthy Living in South Burlington as a Customer Service Supervisor and Community Outreach team member.

What role has networking played in your career exploration and job search?

Networking has played a key role. I found out about a job at Healthy Living from a Career Counselor who knew my interests. I got the job and have worked in many different positions at the store since. Previous to this position, I used networking as a way to find jobs as needed.

Networking can be a bit intimidating to some, what’s been your experience?

I have found networking to be intimidating when I don’t know anything about the person I am interacting with. The key thing is to find something to talk about that is familiar to the person and myself and that we can both relate to. Once a conversation is sparked, it can lead in many different directions. Overall, networking has been rewarding to me. As many people say, it is a small world. The more people I meet, I find people who know people I know and vice versa. We are all ultimately connected in some way.

How do you recommend students get started with networking?

I recommend students start networking with people they know. Express interest in meeting new people to your relatives or friends; this can spark their interest in helping you to make more connections. It’s also really important to put yourself out there and get involved in on-campus activities or part-time jobs. Sometimes you just have to take chances and see what happens.  Establishing relationships with people who know what you are interested in and want to see you succeed can make a big difference when you are looking for a job.

For more information on Networking see the Career Services website.

Also, don’t miss this great workshop!

Savvy Seniors: Networking Workshop Wed. Nov 28th, 4:15pm, L&L E-166

Make the Most Out of Your Internship Experience

Posted on November 13, 2012 with No Comments

So you’ve landed an internship—great! But what can you do to make this a valuable, learning experience? Here are a couple of tips to consider:

1) Ask questions.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially when you are confused about a task you were given or if you are merely curious about the culture of the organization. Asking questions will enhance your experience at an internship and will allow you to learn more about the company. Not only that, but maintaining a curious mind will also allow your supervisor to realize your interest and potential within the business beyond your internship program.

2) Connect with your coworkers and boss.
Have conversations with the people you work with—it’s a great way to learn more about the company you are interning at and also a great opportunity for you to network and make connections! Ask them about their college experience, career path, hobbies, job search process, tips and advice they may have for you—anything you deem being worthwhile and beneficial to your own, personal growth and career path. Along with that, share your own passions, experiences, and dreams with them. Let them get a glimpse of who you are as an individual and form those relationships.

3) Get excited and have fun!
Get excited, be motivated, and stay hungry for more knowledge and assignments! Also make sure to have fun while you’re at it!

With all these in mind, remember to make the most out of your internship experience!

~Michelle, Career Peer Advisor

After the Job Fair

Posted on October 18, 2012 with No Comments

You came to the Job Fair, talked to employers, dropped off resumes and collected some business cards. Now what?

• Follow up! Let employers know that you appreciated meeting them and express interest in their organization’s opportunities.
• Learn more! Explore the company’s website, follow the company on Linked-In and evaluate fit with your interests.
• Prepare for an Interview!

Still looking?

Catamount Job Link

Part Time Jobs & Internships

Information for Specific Career Fields

Internship Hop: Thursday, October 31^st 1:30-4pm, L/L E-Building (Career Services)

The I-Hop is a Resource Fair to help you identify opportunities!

We’re here to support you:
Drop-ins: L/L E140, Monday – Thursday: 1-4pm
Davis Center Drop-ins: Rosa Parks Room, Tuesdays: 11am-1pm

~Kala

What Employers Want

Posted on October 11, 2012 with No Comments

So you want a job or an internship.  You have worked hard, polished your resume and ironed your job fair shirt.  So now what? What is the secret to what employers really want?

Keep to the basics.  Employers seek people who present themselves well, are well informed and are interested in being actively involved.

Here are a few strategies on sending the right message at the fair and afterwards:

Prepare: Know who is coming and with whom you want to talk and share your resume & skills.

Dress: to signal you want to work and be taken seriously.

Practice: introducing yourself, your skills and interests.

Positive & Personable: Remember employers are people. Start a conversation and show your interest in what they do for a living.

Follow Through: Persistence pays.  Collect business cards and follow up via email or LinkedIn.

It is all in the conversation!  Keep learning, practicing and exploring the avenues for your job journey.

~Holly

Savvy Seniors: What’s Your Plan?

Posted on April 12, 2012 with No Comments

Commencement is just six weeks away!  If you don’t already know what you are doing and how to get there, here are some tips and advice to get you going.

Not Sure what you Want to Do?
You’re not alone!

• Assess and Prioritize
  • Savvy Seniors gets you started.
  • The Senior Check-list has activities to help you articulate your values, strengths and interests.

• Explore Career Paths
  • What jobs are out there?
  • Savvy Seniors: Explore Options

What can you do today to prepare for tomorrow?

Take one small step towards your goals!

• Polish your Resume
  • Stop by Drop-Ins for feedback: M-TH: 1-4pm (L&L140), Davis Center Drop Ins: T: 11am-1pm (Rosa Parks).
  • Or submit through Catamount Job Link for a brief review.
  • Savvy Seniors: Polish your Resume & Professional Presentation

• Get Started on Linked In
  • Create a Linked In profile: Tips for a Professional Student Profile.
  • Explore the Student User Guide.
  • Identify potential contacts. Join the University of Vermont Alumni Group and the University of Vermont Career Connection Group.

• Network!
  • Get started today by simply talking to people and developing relationships.
  • Savvy Seniors: Networking with Professionals in your Field
  • Networking is everywhere; it begins wherever you are. Look around you!

• Prepare for Interviews
  • It’s time to articulate your assets and accomplishments!
  • Savvy Seniors: Interviewing

More Great Advice!
100 Blog Posts Every College Senior Should Read
Quint Careers: Job Search Advice for College Seniors: Job Hunting in Times of Uncertainty
Linked In Founder Shares Advice: Take Intelligent Risks
6 Tips for Success all College Seniors Should Know

~Kala