I finished the several-essay-long application for thesis funding this week, only to realize that job applications are just around the corner. These next few weeks are going to be very difficult as I try to balance my schoolwork, job search, and senior thesis. However, with the help of Career Services and TigerTracks, I plan to tackle the employment hunt one-step at a time.
I begin my job search with a simple assessment of what jobs are available in the various fields in which I am interested. There are several ways to keep informed both online and in person. For one, career fairs are a good way to talk to employers one-on-one and get individualized feedback on the application process and the entry-level job descriptions. In addition, on-campus information sessions are also a way of determining which companies are hiring for relevant positions and how they operate on a corporate level. (To see a list of upcoming information sessions, click on “Information Session” in the calendar section of TigerTracks). The most direct method, of course, is doing a job search via TigerTracks targeting specific “Employer Industries” and “Job Functions.” By combining all three approaches, I will have a thorough understanding of the jobs not only available, but also best suited for my skill set and interests.
My second move will be to organize all of my applications by deadline. It is important to remember that particular jobs and industries have earlier deadlines than others, and that in order to keep options open, everyone should plan to send in applications based on deadline and not preference.
The third step will be to update my resume and draft a cover lever for each company. I have used the templates on the Career Services website with success before and will model my materials based on the examples provided (http://www.princeton.edu/career/undergrads/resumes/). During this stage, I will also make sure to have any other materials that an employer may need, such as writing samples, list of references, and a transcript.
Finally, once I submit my resume, I will schedule an appointment with a Career Services employee to practice interviewing skills. As a senior, the most convenient time to do so would be October 13th, during the “Ask Career Services for Seniors” event at Room B in 36 University Place. If I happen to miss this event due to a pressing application deadline, I always have the option of scheduling an appointment with a staff member on another day, during Career Service’s business hours (8:45-5:00).
Hopefully, completing these steps will prepare me for several interviews with employers. And, even more hopefully, I will end the school year with an offer from a company for which I would like to work.
In my opinion, separating the job search into a few, easy steps, is less daunting. The idea of trying to find a job is scary, especially with all of the activities around campus. If I complete one of these steps every few nights, I could be done with the whole process in a reasonable timeframe. Staying organized and committed is key.