Getting that Resume Together!
10/19/2014
Two of the best investments I have made this semester are taking COAS Q400 Job Search Strategies and reaching out to Liz Ferris the Experiential Learning Coordinator at Indiana University East.Job Search strategies came with two required books, both of which I have read cover to cover (even the chapters that were not assigned). These books explain the ins and outs of getting "The Job." The books are titled You Majored in What?: Mapping Your Path from Chaos to Career by Katharine Brooks and Getting from College to Career: Your Essential Guide to Succeeding in the Real World by Lindsey Pollak. The course is taught by, Katie Chaney, Academic and Career Advising Coordinator for the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. She's worked really hard to get us prepared for the real world. Last week she held a mini simulated interview for us that we had to do in front of the class. Don't let that scare you! My classmates along with my professor had very helpful critiques. Katie gave us beautiful leather portfolios with the school of Humanities and Social Science and Indiana University inscribed on it. We are to bring them to the networking brunch she has put together for us...
The networking brunch was incredible! I was happier than a kid on Christmas day!!! Katie had a professional for each of the students to have a one-on-one interaction with. Katie found a Law Enforcement Officer that specialized in my interest field (sex crimes). I was able to talk with him for a little over an hour, gladly absorbing all the information and advice he had to offer. He was very encouraging and was an incredible resource! He offered to look over my resume and critiqued it for me, he gave me a list of resourceful books to read as well as offered for me to ride along with him!!! I have learned from Job Search Strategies that I need to start networking now and reaching out for experience opportunities. I recommend everyone take this course! Spring registration is just around the corner *hint hint*
Liz Ferris is another wonderful resource that students on campus can utilize. Liz spent three one hour sessions with me helping me to perfect my resume. My resume now looks incredible! And a well groomed resume is extraordinarily important in any job search! It's never too early to start preparing :)
I'll end with a quote that hangs in my apartment "By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail."
