This week’s Ask SHUrly question: Jobs
“Hey SHUrly,
I’m graduating this May and I’m honestly stressing out so much about how I don’t have anything planned. I haven’t had time to apply for jobs because of work and school and I’m just scared that there isn’t going to be any good jobs for me. Any advice on what I should do?”
–N, senior
Dear N,
Just like me, we’re both graduating this May! A little pat on the back for both of us for making it so close to the end, we deserve it! But, this also means it’s time to start adulting in the real world and this harsh reality is finally approaching. I totally get where you’re coming from, being so close to graduating as well. Everything feels like it’s happening all at once and the most important things we want to get done end up getting pushed aside. This is such a common occurrence, not just for seniors, but for people in general who are scared and use other things as excuses for why they haven’t faced what’s really bugging them. I also completely understand the idea of being scared because there may not be many jobs for you when you graduate. I will be real with you—I have friends who have graduated and are still struggling to find jobs in their field. So, I’m going to tell you exactly what I tell them—DON’T GIVE UP. I can understand the frustration of applying nonstop and still not locking down a job months after graduation, but giving up won’t get you anywhere closer to where you want to be. You also haven’t started applying to jobs yet, so you haven’t even reached that point yet, but being aware of this possibility might even motivate you to get started right now.
In your particular case, I truly believe in the idea of making time for things. There’s really never going to be a better time than the present, especially when it comes to making decisions about your career. I suggest you start applying as soon as you can. Even finding a few minutes in a day to send in your resume. Luckily, there are job sites that make applying as easy as one click! You can upload your resume onto job sites like Indeed or LinkedIn and it makes applying to jobs even faster if you’re short on time. Also, take into consideration the type of job you’re seeking. My recent grad friends all tell me the same thing, which is DON’T BE TOO PICKY. Especially, if you’re straight out of college and you haven’t had much internship or job experience in your field of study. Entry-level positions are never as glamorous as we hope; but that’s why you have to work your way up because you’re still kind of new and gaining valuable experience.
It took some time, but eventually I got to a point where I knew I had to stop and get my priorities in check. I advise you to do the same. Prioritize finding a job because clearly, you seem like you don’t want to continue working at your current job since you’re looking elsewhere. If you’re really bent on securing a job post-grad, then start applying now. Apply everywhere and see where it takes you. Regardless of your major, every career field has competition. If you want to stand out and secure a job, then make an impression by asserting yourself, networking and APPLY, APPLY, APPLY! And start planning now! I find mind mapping helpful in the planning process. I lay out my most desired positions in my field and list out all of the steps needed to get there. It works for me, it might work for you, but no matter how you plan, it’s good to start somewhere and it will more than likely ease your worries.
Hope this helps, N.
Sincerely,
SHUrly
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