One of the most common phrases in business is, "It's all about who you know."
This rings true as I have gotten an on-campus job along with an internship and contacts in the industry I major in, and that started with going to a club meeting.
1. Put yourself out there
At the beginning of my second semester as a freshman, I passed a poster for the advertising club. I had just declared an advertising minor, so I figured this would be perfect.
When I went to the meeting, they said they needed a treasurer. When no one stood up with a prepared speech, I decided I should be the treasurer.
2. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself
I was sitting there, thinking, "Well, that would look good on a resume, and I am a Finance major (that changed, but still), so if I don't, someone else will" and I raised my hand.
The President, now a personal friend of mine, invited me to the front where I introduced myself and told some facts about myself, proving I was perfect for the position. I ran unopposed and was soon managing $200 for a small club on campus. Little did I know this day that I was creating a positive domino effect.
3. Seize opportunities
Because I was a board member, when a speaker came, I got to come early and leave late, putting myself into valuable situations where I could learn about future jobs and talk to real professionals.
4. Make new connections
There were four other students on the board, all at least one year older than me. This helped me in branching out, meeting new people, and making more friends.
4. Always inquire
Now comes to the important part: getting a job. You see, the President had one of the most coveted jobs on campus--one where you make copies and assist professors on projects--and I was searching for an on-campus job. They're hard to come by unless you're on work study or know someone.
However, I know the President was graduating a semester early, in December of my sophomore year. He was ALWAYS in the Communications Building due to his major, so one day, I got the courage up to ask him about his on-campus job--what it entails, how I apply, etc. He told me he'd put in a good word for me and that I should totally apply. I sent in my resume, he put a good word in for me, and I ended up getting the job! It was phenomenal.
5. Asking for help is OK
Once I had the job, I was set. I had a set number of hours every week, it fit around my schedule, and I could even come in extra if I had the time, plus my bosses are so nice. I loved it, and it even gave me an in with teachers as they saw me every day in the office. This includes the internship coordinator, who helped me get a summer internship this year, one I would NOT have had without him and the effort I put in.
In the end, it was because of me and my actions that landed me the job, internship, and friends. Be driven, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
