Network, Create, and Conquer: 3 Tips for Landing a Full-Time Job
Job hunting as a student can feel like a full-time job in itself, and between classes, extracurriculars, and a bustling social life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I’m currently in the midst of looking for a full-time job, but I remember my first internship search. It was a roller coaster of excitement, stress, and countless resume tweaks. But trust me, with the right approach and a bit of persistence, you can totally nail it. I’ve learned a few things, so I’m sharing my top three tips to help you land a job that fits your busy college lifestyle while still making time for fun and growth.
1. Take Advantage of DePaul’s Career Center
The Career Center is seriously a lifesaver. It’s loaded with resources that are super helpful, from resume workshops to mock interviews that make you feel way more prepared for the real deal. I always check out campus job fairs and on-campus recruiting events because employers who specifically target DePaul students know exactly what skills we bring to the table. Don’t just rely on online job boards like Handshake or LinkedIn. Make an appointment for one-on-one career counseling. It’s like having a personal coach who can help you fine-tune your resume and give you the inside scoop on how to stand out in interviews. Below is their Instagram page, which is how I learn about their events and other tips.
2. Network Like It’s Your Full-Time Job
Networking might sound intimidating (it was for me at first), but it’s honestly one of the best ways to get your foot in the door. Beyond the events hosted by the Career Center and major-specific departments, I say get involved in clubs, attend city-wide mixers, and connect with DePaul alumni on LinkedIn. I personally landed my current internship at a digital media agency by networking with my professors and keeping up with the marketing department website & LinkedIn page. These are gold mines for hearing about the latest job openings and internship opportunities—sometimes even before they’re officially posted on a company’s site! Remember, it’s not just about collecting contacts—it’s about building genuine relationships that can last throughout your career.
3. Build a Killer Online Presence and Creative Portfolio
These days, your online presence can really make or break your job search. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, professional, and reflective of your skills and experiences. I made sure that my headline is easy to read and shows my top skills/what kind of roles I’m looking for. For those interested in social media marketing like me, building a creative portfolio is essential. I spent time curating my work by showcasing social media campaigns, creative content, and digital projects that highlight my ability to strategize and design engaging content. I’ve used both Google Slides and Canva, and I think Canva is much more user-friendly and aesthetic. You can see my portfolio below and how I organized my slides with some examples of past work. This portfolio not only boosted my confidence but also helped me stand out to potential employers. Any internships, part-time gigs, and even volunteer work can seriously boost your resume/portfolio. Even if it’s not your dream job right away, every bit of hands-on experience counts and can lead to better opportunities down the road.
Job searching can be stressful, but with these tips, you’re well on your way to landing a job that’s a great fit for you. Start early, stay persistent, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!
– Saira