The Employment Report

How to Transition from Student to Professional

“If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.”

- Lewis Carroll

After four long years of college– parties, seven day weekends and part time jobs– it’s time to join the professional workforce. You walk across the stage, shake some hands, throw your hat in the air and begin thinking of ways to spend the graduation money that is flooding in from your relatives. Everyone gushes over how much potential you have while you picture that cushy office job with the fat salary. As excited as you may be, there is good chance that you’re not prepared for what’s ahead.

Graduation seems to come so quickly because, though you’ve been dreaming of the day, you haven’t been preparing for it. Remember when you were waking up at noon and sharing a keg with your friends? That time could have been spent looking for a job and saving that gifted money from the family. If you had done these things, you could be at the bank, proudly depositing your first paycheck. Instead, you’re waiting tables and searching between your car seats for change.

Growing up is never easy, but there are a few things you can do to help yourself. So, put down the beer and pay attention (you haven’t opened a textbook in years– you might as well read something). There are some important tips that can help you feel more prepared before the higher education clock runs out.

Tip 1: Start early and set goals. 

You should start thinking about life after graduation by the beginning of your last semester, at the latest. Many students put off the job search, thinking it will be quick and easy. Some students are so anxious at the thought of the “real world” that they completely ignore the situation. Though these options are much less stressful than looking for a job, they will soon leave you aimless and penniless.

Choose a date a few months in the future on which you will start applying. Also, pick a date that is your deadline for employment. Keep in mind, this is a soft date and won’t be met exactly, but it is necessary to have a specific time frame. Having a timeline in mind provides a good gauge of progress you should make and whether your job hunt needs to be accelerated.

Also, remember to set other goals, such as learning something you’ve always wanted to know how to do. Develop other parts of your life along with your career. By cultivating a well-rounded life, you can avoid putting too much emphasis on a job search. Graduation should be a fun time. Use it to discover more about yourself than how to write a decent résumé.