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I Need a Job Before Graduation - Making the Most of Your Last Months at Cal
February 29, 2008
Spring Break is coming soon and before you know it, you'll be a brand new college graduate. With congratulations comes the inevitable three letters: J-O-B. Not sure where to start? Here are some tips to maximize your remaining months as a Cal student and make the most of Spring Break.

Make an appointment with a career counselor to figure out your search strategy.
Career counselors are here to assist you with every step of the job search process, including helping you decide what you'd like to do after graduation, exploring career fields, and discussing what job search strategies and resources are best for you. Making an appointment with a career counselor is now easier than ever with our new system that allows you to schedule an appointment online, 24/7.

Do your research using the Vault and Wetfeet Guides, Info Lab, and Internet.
After deciding what you would like to do, you'll also need to think about who you want to work for and where you want to work. With finals fast approaching, it makes sense to utilize your time to the fullest by focusing on companies that really interest you. To develop a list of target companies, browse through our free, downloadable Vault Guides of top employers in a variety of industries. Look through our Books of Lists and JobBank books in the Info Lab to locate top companies in the areas that interest you. Are you attracted to smaller companies? Check out the "Build a list" feature on Hoovers.com (the subscription can be accessed from anywhere on campus), CareerSearch; or do a Google or Open Directory Project search by career field and location and carefully assess your goals along the way.

Get your resume and cover letters critiqued at a 15-minute mini-appointment.
Career Counselors and peer advisors are available to critique your resume and cover letter every day of the week in a variety of locations during 15 minute mini-appointments and drop-in sessions.

Make connections on-campus in person. Plan to attend the Just in Time Job Fair, April 23-24, 2008.
Networking is often the single most effective job search strategy and there are still many ways to make connections while still at Cal. The Just in Time Job Fair, our last fair of the year, sells out annually with over 150 employers coming to meet potential candidates over two days (April 23-24), many still actively recruiting May grads.

Also, be sure to view our Events Calendar to stay up to date about other career related events that are happening on campus.

Make even more connections off-campus by utilizing the @cal Career Network. Schedule Spring Break information interviews now.
Login to the @cal Career Network to view a directory of alumni who have volunteered to give career advice to Cal students based on their experiences. Set up a meeting with them in person or on the phone (this is what's called an informational interview). Also, check out networking websites such as LinkedIn, Ryze, and Alumwire which are designed to help you develop your professional network further.

Check out CalJobs and other job listing sites
CalJobs currently has over 3,800 listings that are often posted exclusively for Cal students.

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The key to a successful job search is using a diversified approach (making connections, using CalJobs, targeting your own companies, etc.) and being proactive - taking the initiative to find job opportunities. Make it a point to let people know you are currently looking for a job, and follow up with contacts you are really excited about. Remember, the Career Center is here to help you, so make an appointment if you are feeling stuck at any point in your search.

 
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This page last updated 2/26/2008 (ag/ps)