Just this week, I began my newest job position: Communications Intern for the Office of Technology Management. On my first day, as I grabbed a collection of notebooks and pencils from my book bag, climbed three flights of stairs to my new office, and learned about the duties of my position, my jitters dissolved. I realized that this job would help me harness and utilize the skills I learned inside the classroom.

For college students, jobs and internships are invaluable experiences. Some let students do work that directly applies to their major, while other entry-level positions simply build time management and communications skills. While students learn those important skills, however, their jobs can also help fill their wallets.

But when you’re new on campus, it’s hard to know where to look for jobs.

Befriend professors

When in doubt, ask your professors. This advice is applicable for every question you have throughout your experience in college: never underestimate the value of your professors. I discovered my previous jobs through correspondence with the journalism department. Your professors are there to help you succeed and learn. They want you to be the best that you can be. When you take the time build a relationship with them, most will love to help you.

Befriend your career services staff

The College of Media Career Services also helped me throughout my job search. They not only knew about opportunities, but they helped me craft, revise and improve my resume; they read draft-after-draft of my cover letter, and they even showed me how to be successful in an interview. Never be afraid to approach your major’s career services department or even the University’s general Career Center. Their job is to literally help you find a job. But like your professors, you must take the first step and seek them out.

Use I-Link

The Career Center on campus sponsors a website called I-Link, which displays hundreds of jobs and opportunities both on and off campus. It’s accessible and easy-to-use. It allows you to upload and send your resume to employers directly through the site. It has a helpful advanced search tab, where you can find positions based on your major, interests and skillsets.

The University’s Virtual Job Board

The University has a specific webpage dedicated to helping its students find part-time employment. These positions are all diverse — everything from research assistants and clerical work, to long-term and seasonal commitment. Just plug in the type of job you want and hit submit — it’s as easy as that. Students can even use the board as a way to discover jobs off campus and in the C-U community, like retail work at the Market Place Shopping Center, for example. Students can find exactly what works for them when they are in need of extra monetary support throughout their college experience.

Networking

Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out to people. The worst they can say is no. I found a freelance position simply by emailing an editor and asking about an opportunity to write for their magazine. Reaching out to people in your field, or even asking your friend who works at McDonald’s to put in a good word for you when you apply, can make a big difference. Once people know your name and face, you will stand out from the crowd. They will realize how much you care and point or even offer jobs your way.

Sarah is a sophomore in Media. 
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