How To Build Your Resume While Still in School

By Kathleen Herring on April 16, 2012

In my most recent article, “College Graduate’ Just Doesn’t Cut It Anymore”, I outlined the tough job market facing today’s college graduates and the realistic expectations of finding a job in one’s field of study.  I want to apologize if my writing seemed overly pessimistic, because in truth there are many things students can do to increase their job skills and marketability before graduation.  Here are some examples:

  1. Get a part-time job while you’re still in school.  Even if you don’t necessarily need the money, the sense of accomplishment from having spending money you earned on your own is well worth the effort.  If you can manage to find a job related to your field, either on campus or in the surrounding areas, it will really pump up your resume and add dimension to your studies, as well as providing some insight into the types of jobs you want to research and apply for once you do graduate.
  2. Even if you can’t get a job in your field, the fact that you found the time and discipline to work at all while studying and going to class will make you look better on future applications.  There are plenty of companies in Harrisonburg that exclusively hire JMU students during the school year, and several on-campus opportunities such as the library, dining halls, coffee shop and JMU Bookstore that provide employment even if you lack independent transportation (i.e. walking, biking, or bus-accessible).
  3. If you still have too much free time, or if you decide that working is not an option for you, make sure to join at least one club or organization that you’re interested in.  The school has a “Student Organizations Night” at the beginning of every semester, where you can find out about all the different groups on campus, talk to current members and get information on when and where they meet.  Especially if you’re new or looking to meet new people, don’t feel shy about dropping in on a couple of different clubs just to see what their meetings are like – they always welcome newcomers!
  4. When you find something you’re passionate about – get involved!  Make friends in the club or bring along a friend to a meeting.  Run for election as an officer or offer to help organize campus events or performances.  Attend off-campus or evening activities sponsored by your club and bring a friend along!  Besides being a lot of fun, this is a great way to meet people, make connections and show leadership skills, which are also a valuable commodity on any resume.

    Get Involved!

Some of my suggestions may seem like common sense, but believe me – college is one of the best times in your life to try out a lot of new experiences and activities and get to know a lot of different people.  Once you’re out in the “Real World”, those experiences will definitely come in handy in forming relationships, finding activities to participate in to enhance your social life, and of course, building up your resume so you can try for the job of your dreams.  Good luck, and don’t forget to have some fun!

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