Job Search Support Services for College Graduates
For many recent graduates, the transition from college to the workforce can be daunting. The process of securing that first full-time job often comes with its unique set of challenges and uncertainties. Isabella Herdliska, a communication studies graduate from December 2024, shared her personal struggles with the job search journey. She highlighted a common issue faced by many young professionals – the paradox of entry-level positions requiring several years of experience. “The biggest struggle I found is that when it says entry level, it’s still asking for three to five years of experience,” Herdliska expressed. “With it being entry-level and right out of college, it’s difficult to have that much experience.”
Expert Insights on Navigating the Job Market
In the quest to assist students in navigating the competitive job market, ISU’s Career Services play a crucial role. Jessica Martin, a career coordinator for business career services, emphasized the importance of students applying for jobs even if they don’t meet all the listed requirements. She noted that many students often disqualify themselves prematurely based on the perceived lack of experience. “A lot of students I meet with will see that three to five years are preferred or required, and then immediately say, ‘Oh, well, I’m out of that. I can’t apply,’” Martin explained. “You might be surprised by the amount of things that you have that can be transferable.”
Building a Strong Foundation for Success
Martin further stressed the significance of building a robust resume through campus involvement. Encouraging students to engage in extracurricular activities, major-related clubs, and class projects, she highlighted the value of showcasing diverse experiences on a resume. According to Martin, completing internships is a key factor that employers look for in potential candidates. She advised students to pursue internships during their academic tenure to gain valuable skills and hands-on experience.
Herdliska’s Experience with Career Preparation
In her final semester at ISU, Herdliska enrolled in Professional Career Preparation, a course designed to equip students with essential career-building tools. Reflecting on the course’s impact, she expressed, “It teaches you a bunch of different things about resumes, cover letters and LinkedIn.” Herdliska added, “I wish I knew about it when I was in my freshman or sophomore years because then I’d be able to prepare myself, but it was still helpful to learn about all of those different things.”
Empowering Graduates for Success
The Business Career Services Annual Report for the 2023-24 academic year revealed that 95% of undergraduate students were professionally engaged within six months of graduation. This statistic underscores the importance of early career planning and proactive engagement with resources offered by Career Services. Martin encouraged students to persevere through the job search process, acknowledging the inevitable challenges that come with it. “You’re gonna have to do a lot of work, and it is going to feel like no reward,” Martin empathized. “But that’s just statistically how it works out. So stay in touch with it, keep going and stay persistent.”
Accessing Post-Graduation Support
For ISU graduates, the support system provided by CyHire extends beyond graduation day. Alumni can utilize CyHire with their Net-ID for up to six months post-graduation to explore job opportunities posted by companies specifically seeking ISU graduates. Additionally, Career Services remain accessible to all alumni, offering assistance with job searches, resume building, and career guidance. Martin emphasized the ongoing support available to graduates, regardless of when they completed their studies.
Navigating Career Services Resources
Each college at ISU houses its own career services department, tailored to meet the unique needs of students from different academic disciplines. To learn more about the range of resources available and to connect with a specific department, visit the Career Services website for detailed information and contact details.
In conclusion, as college graduates embark on their professional journeys, leveraging the support and guidance provided by Career Services can significantly enhance their job search experience and increase their chances of securing rewarding opportunities in their chosen fields. Remember, the path to success may be challenging, but with perseverance and proactive engagement, graduates can navigate the job market with confidence and determination.
