Gearing Up for the Job Search
What do you want?
Before you begin your job search, take time to consider the major factors that may contribute to your job search, including:
- What careers or organizations would you prefer?
- How does this fit into your long term career goals?
- Do you have geographic preferences?
- Do you have a partner who also needs to secure employment?
- When will you realistically be prepared to begin a full-time position?
- Are there expanded career options you would like to consider?
First steps
The job search is a large project. Before you start, take a minute to understand the big picture.
- Learn about the job search in your field. What application materials are commonly requested? When should you begin your search?
- Connect with people in your field of interest.
- Research relevant companies.
- If you are applying for faculty jobs, learn about academic institutions and related terminology.
- Identify people who are willing to serve as references.
- Familiarize yourself with the relevant degree deadlines and work with your adviser to create a graduation plan.
- If you are an international student looking for a job in the United States, contact ISSS to learn about your work authorization options.
Resources to support your search
Many resources are available to assist you during the job search process. Consider the following possibilities:
- Campus career offices including the Graduate College Career Services Office
- Campus career fairs
- Web resources and workshops
- Resources for women, underrepresented students and the LGBT community
- Your adviser or other faculty in your department
- Your personal network