Transitioning From College To The Workforce By Vincent Adeyemi
Transitioning from college into a career is a challenging period for most students. This is a period where many students are making life changing decisions on their own.
One of the mistakes most students make is waiting for their senior year of college before they start planning for a career. Here are some tips that will help you plan and prepare for life after college.
Get an Internship before Your Senior Year of College
An internship in a field you like can go a long way in your career and it’s obviously a good experience to have. Have you ever wondered why most jobs require a minimum of 1 year of related experience for an entry level position? Most companies look for students with internship experience to fill entry level positions. Therefore, as a student you don’t want to wait until l your senior year of college before getting an internship. Most students get an internship in their junior year and they keep working as an intern until their senior year. There are lots of benefits that comes with an internship. You gain professional experience, you learn more about real world problems in your field, you get the opportunity to connect and network with industry experts and professionals and you are considered as a priority candidate for a permanent position in the company. An internship from your sophomore year until your senior year can serve as two years of work experience.
Have a Career Mentor and Grow your Network
One of the mistakes most students make when transitioning into a career is not having a mentor. If you get an internship, utilize your relationship with your boss or one of the leaders in the company. Ask him/her to be your mentor. If you are unable to get an internship, connect and network with professionals on LinkedIn, alumni organizations, honor societies and sororities and seek mentors from any of these platforms. Your mentors will help you grow as a professional, advise and guide you in your chosen career. Mentors are always looking for people who are eager to learn and are dedicated. You must show them these qualities before they can agree to be your mentor. Do you have a LinkedIn account? If you don’t create an account, connect with professionals in your field. Update your profile by adding relevant information such as your education, course work, school projects and volunteer activities. This information increases your chances of getting connected with professionals on LinkedIn
Be Proactive and Eager to Learn
One of the things employers look out for is how you think as an employee. You will not be told what to do. You must be proactive either during your internship or when you get a permanent position. Show that you are willing to take on new tasks and learn new skills. Even when you have free time, request for new tasks and offer your assistance to senior coworkers.
Take Initiative
No matter what kind of position it is, either internship or permanent position, be ready to do more than what is expected of you. This will give you an advantage to be considered for promotion or new opportunities. It can also help you get recommendations from your boss or coworkers.
Career Progression
As your career grows and you gain experience, lookout for full-time opportunities and promotions. If you’re a good worker and have shown great attitude, most companies will see you as a great asset and want to keep you on board.
It is also much easier for companies to transition someone from part-time employee or internship status than to hire someone brand new, since you already have experience with the company.
Remember that networking is the key in terms of looking for permanent job opportunities. Make good use of your network and connections to grow your career.
(5 Ways to Ease the Transition from College to a Career, n.d.)