As a second semester junior, my communication studies undergraduate experience is quickly coming to an end. I am currently trying to build myself up as much as I can so when I do graduate, my resume will be chock full of attractive attributes. This is because nowadays the majority of people have a bachelor's degree and most employers are looking for more than just a piece of paper. We all want to be confident when walking into an important interview. Here are some tips that I wish someone had told me when I first entered my freshman year of college.
1. Join clubs related to your major and make it a point to be heavily involved.
Let's say you're a bio major, try to get involved in your college's bio club. Work your way up and eventually become apart of the e-board of the club. You will learn even more about the subject you're interested in while also gaining experience of having a position on a club board. This shows that you can manage people and have a passion for the club.
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2. Internships, internships, internships.
Consider doing at least one internship (although I say more the merrier) over the course of your college career. This will show future employers that you have worked in a professional environment and succeeded. Another great thing about internships is that it can help you boil down what professions you like and dislike. Some internships are even paid and most you can get college credit for.
3. Consider being a TA (teacher's assistant).
Did you get an A in that computer art class you took last semester? Consider contacting your professor and ask if they need a TA for next semester's class. Being a TA is a great resume builder because it shows that you excelled in this subject. Hopefully after your experience you will have become even closer with your professor who may grant you with a letter of recommendation and/or give you tips regarding immersing yourself deeper into this field. Depending on your college it is possible to get college credit for being a TA.
4. Get to know your professors.
It is important that your professors know who you are. Go to their office hours, it will most likely help you understand the class material better and if you have questions regarding this field as a profession, most would be more then willing to answer any of your questions. And as I said before, you will be needing those letters of recommendation.
5. Apply for jobs that will enhance your resume.
Do you want to be a librarian when you get out of college? Apply to work at your school's library. Even if your job is just putting books on shelves, you're still seeing what happens in this environment and what happens behind the scenes.
6. Get involved on campus.
If you walk in with your diploma and nothing else, most companies will not be that impressed. Show them that you applied yourself outside of the classroom. This will give them the impression that you will treat your job as you treated college; you went above and beyond the bear minimum.
7. If you have room double major and/or declare a minor or two.
My major is only 36 credits. I still have a year and a half left of school and I am only one or two classes away from completing my major. If you have room, instead of just taking a bunch of random classes, declare another major, or a minor or two. People like to see that you have immense knowledge in more then just one subject.
