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Dealing with graduation anxiety

Veronica C. — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:31:07 +0000

Dealing with graduation anxiety

Remember how difficult those first weeks of college could be? Once the excitement and shock of the new wore off and you realized you were in a strange place, far from home? Well now that strange place is your home, and you’re about to have to leave it – again. No one can blame you for a little graduation anxiety. Looking for ways to deal? Consider these ideas.

Get away from it all
The weeks before graduation are going to consist of party upon party, which can be fun but provide plenty of stress, especially for those who still have finals or papers to wrap up. Take some time to yourself and relax at a movie or taking a long walk.

Groom your resume
Sometimes it can help you feel more secure in your future by examining your past. Look over your resume and take pride in your accomplishments but also note where you need to improve and write out a plan for how you intend to do so. Even the act of planning can alleviate the fear of leaving college.

Secure an internship
The job market is not the best it’s ever been, so if you can find cheap housing, it may be to your advantage to score a really great internship with little to no compensation rather than work a 9-5 with no prospect for job growth.

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Study abroad checklist for England

Veronica C. — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:36:55 +0000

England study abroad checklist

So you’re thinking of studying abroad? It’s a great way to help your resume when it comes to internship or job searching you’re sure to be doing in the coming years. And it’s also a fantastic opportunity to open your horizons and meet new people. But where you study abroad is also key, and the same locales aren’t going to be ideal for everyone.

England is a tempting option for many college students looking to study abroad. But is it right for you? Consider this checklist to help you make up your mind.

1. No language barrier! (But plenty of them nearby)
The English do share a language with us Americans (thus its name), and with the exception of a few key Britishisms, you’ll have a very easy time getting around and communicating over the pond. Best of all, if you should want to test out your francophonic skills, Paris is only a train ride or flight away – not to mention Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal and all of Europe!

2. You love Shakespeare
Or if not Shakespeare, Thomas Hardy, Charles Dickens, Jane Austen or any number of others. England is famous for its literature, and you’re sure to be taking a course or two on the British novel during your time over there. That or you could head to Dickens’ World, the theme park based around the works of the Great Expectations and Oliver Twist author.

3. You’re seeking diversity
England – and especially London – is a true melting pot. Recognized for its tradition of tolerance, England has long been home to citizens with roots around the world. Explore a wide range of cultures and traditions in the U.K.!

Three tips for beginning your post-grad job search

Veronica C. — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:31:46 +0000

Three tips for beginning your post-grad job search

If you recently graduated from college, you’ve no doubt begun thinking about applying for an entry level job or internship this summer. While you may have a general idea of what the job search has in store for you, the reality of post-grad unemployment is something few college students are prepared for. Here are some tips to help begin your application process.

Don’t limit yourself
One of the biggest beginner mistakes that you can make in your job search is limiting yourself to those “perfect” job descriptions. Regardless of your desired career path, only applying to positions that you might describe as “dream jobs” means that you’re probably ignoring dozens of other opportunities that are more realistic as a recent college graduate. Make sure you pursue an even mix of ideal and realistic positions – you never know what might work out.

Apply every day
In today’s economy, finding your first job out of college is largely a numbers game – the more applications you send, the better your chances. While it’s fine to take a break every once in a while, you should be applying to a least a handful of positions every day. Don’t wait to hear back from employers before sending more applications, either – you can’t consider your search over until you have a real job.

Network
If you’re only sending out cold applications to employers through job boards or company websites, you’re ignoring the personal aspect of today’s job market. More often than not, your best chances at landing a job will come from networking with a friend, relative or professional contact who can recommend or introduce you to a hiring manager at an organization.

Four ways to personalize your desk at a new job

Veronica C. — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 14:32:13 +0000

Four ways to personalize your desk at a new job

Since you’ve landed an entry level job, you’re probably aware that it doesn’t come replete with a sunlight-filled corner office. Considering that you won’t be able to pick out your own custom-made leather chair or mahogany shelves, what can you do to make your utilitarian desk feel a bit more personalized? Consider these four tips.

1. A favorite coffee mug
A favorite coffee mug is like a best friend – its presence is comforting, casual and makes those anxiety-ridden first few days at work a whole lot smoother. And what more could you ask from a good friend than to help make sure you get your morning cup of java?

2. Some tasty herbal tea
Of course, too much coffee is liable to give you the jitters. After a cup or two, switch to a soothing tea. The colorful box is sure to bring a little life to your desk space.

3. A friendly plant
Plants? Friendly? Believe it or not, plenty of people think of their house plants as a pet, and while most of us would probably prefer to have a dog or cat we could chill with at the office, you’ve got to work with what you’ve got. Plus, plants keep air fresh.

4. A photo or two
Someday when you’re CEO, you can have a wall full of these (and a personal oil portrait of yourself), but for now be content with a few framed photographs so you can show off your significant other and/or family.

Easy and cheap ways to stay social while interning in a city

Veronica C. — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:32:34 +0000

Easy and cheap ways to stay social while interning in a city

Money and college students are hardly synonymous, but plenty of cash is exactly what city-living requires if you want to stay social. When it comes to internships, most opportunities are going to be in metropolitan areas, so how do you mitigate not going over budget and not living as a hermit when it comes to your free time? Consider a few of these options.

Party in
A six pack of beers is only a bit more than a single drink in a New York City bar, so why not invite some friends over for an evening in. Scrounge up some old board games and split a pizza. At the end of the night, you’ll have spent about the amount you would have going out on tips alone.

Go to college-organized social gatheringsIf your school encourages internships during summer or winter break, they’ll probably also organize social gatherings in major cities during these times. Stop by for free appetizers and catch up with your friends and alumni.

Find free housing
Want to save big on money? Live with a friend who’s already got a place in the city. It’s not conducive to privacy, but you’ll always have a friend nearby.

Five tips for getting through a terrible internship

Veronica C. — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:32:44 +0000

Five tips for getting through a terrible internship

We’ve all been there – you’ve signed on for what looks like a really sweet internship gig, arrive on your first day and soon realize you’ve actually wandered into Dante’s final circle of Hell. From raging bosses to terrible co-workers and impossible office environments, here’s a quick guide to getting through it all.

1. Don’t panic
First thing’s first – you will survive, but it will not be fun. Go through whatever stages of grieving you need to that first day, then prepare yourself.

2. Maintain equilibrium and don’t lose your temper
Don’t ever lose your cool on the job. No matter how draconian your employer or how obstinate the copying machine, let yourself seem peeved at the worst – and never for long.

3. Start marking the days on your calendar
Sometimes, to get through difficult times, we need a physical representation of what we’re dealing with. Grab yourself a calendar and start marking off each day with a giant red X.

4. Pick your battles and know when to just power through
If someone is being outrageously unfair or seems to have it out for you, don’t remain submissive. But pick your battles, and while you deserve respect, don’t do anything to jeopardize your standing in the company or with your coworkers. Stay calm, cool and sensible.

5. Learn from your experience
Perhaps most importantly, take a look at how you ended up at such a terrible internship. Were there any warning signs? Should you have looked longer? Requested more help? Consider all of these and you’re sure to have more luck the next time around.

Workplace romances – DOs and DON’Ts

Veronica C. — Thu, 30 May 2013 14:48:33 +0000

Workplace romances - DOs and DON'Ts

Rather than getting into jokes about mixing business with pleasure, the first thing you want to do when considering a workplace romance is take a step back and evaluate the situation. Remember when you were in college and the idea of dating someone in or near your dorm seemed a little claustrophobic (but also kind of exciting)? Imagine that, to the degree of sitting in the same office space! Consider this list of DOs and DON’Ts before you let your heart run away with you.

DO double check with someone you trust about office rules and regulations about relationships. Human Resources can be tricky about these sorts of things and sometimes require that you disclose your relationship!

DON’T rush into a supervisor and subordinate relationship. Dating your boss is one of the messiest situations you can get into – even if you’re just an intern.

DO seek out dates in other departments, if at all. Mingling love interests with your professional ego can lead to tricky situations.

DON’T neglect to consider how a breakup might affect your job. Will you still want to work at that office? Will you be nearly as productive? Will you be happy? These are all essential questions to ask yourself.

DO have fun. Remember, despite all these warnings, that you’re both young and pursuing your very first careers. Don’t be afraid to go out with coworkers after office hours and grab a drink or even hang out on the weekends.

How to break the ice with the job interviewer

Veronica C. — Tue, 28 May 2013 14:34:49 +0000

How to break the ice with the job interviewer

There may be nothing more nerve wracking than walking into your first interview for a job or internship and being faced with the prospect of having to make small talk. Don’t go into cold sweats over the prospect though! Rather than worry yourself, sick, consider how these three tips can help you avoid awkward silences or stalled conversation, even in the most intense of interviews.

Note small things
Stay attentive to everything during your job interview. Note things like worker dress code, the office environment, posters and certificates on the walls or even more general things, like the surrounding area or the building itself. Any of these are sure to show that you’re an observant individual and are great launching points for conversation.

Know how to talk about yourself
Remember that this sort of casual conversation is also an opportunity for your potential employer to learn a bit about you, so make sure you know how to talk about yourself – not just as a potential employee, but casually as well. Don’t go on for too long, but be open and honest. Humor also helps!

Don’t be afraid of talking about the weather
It may be the classic stereotype of awkward conversation topics, but frankly, it’s almost impossible that a comment about the weather won’t lead into new areas of conversation. Rather than let silence dangle, bring up how much it’s supposed to snow, that you’re looking forward to a sunny weekend or that hopefully the rain lets up soon. It’s not ideal, but it’s a good place to start!

Three areas it’s imperative to keep clean in every office

Veronica C. — Tue, 28 May 2013 12:59:37 +0000

Cleanliness is tough when you're running a tight ship around the office. From newsrooms to law firms, ad agencies and everything in between, sometimes there's just no time during the day to throw out all your coffee cups. And frankly, by the time those 5 o'clock chimes sound and you're headed out the door, who can blame you for not tossing them in the trash. There's always tomorrow morning after all.

Potential hires could blame you. While clients are sure to make the occasional office visit, new hires and potential employees coming in for interviews are also folks to consider. A very promising new employee can almost immediately be put off by the state of the toaster in the break room – and while people aren't likely to leave their internships or premium entry level jobs over coffee stains or moldy fridge refuse, it doesn't sweeten the deal for them. Keep these areas clean in your office!

1. Break rooms
Throw out the trash, wipe down the counters, clean out the fridge at least once a week and every so often take a Brillo pad and sponge to the toaster and microwave.

2. Lobby
This is the first thing new hires or interviewees are going to see, so make sure it's looking clean and organized – but also add a little decorative flair to liven up the space and give it more energy.

3. Bathrooms
Sure the building's staff takes care of the bathrooms on a nightly basis, but that doesn't say much about their state around the middle or end of day. While you can't head in there with a toilet scrub brush yourself, be sure to remind employees of their responsibility to the state of the bathroom.

Getting the most out of your morning commute

Veronica C. — Thu, 23 May 2013 14:12:56 +0000

Getting the most out of your morning commute

While landing that dream job is a great experience, it comes with plenty of new challenges. For a start, there’s getting to know your new coworkers – although that’s always easier than it seems. On the other hand, getting used to your new morning commute can be more difficult than you first realize. Looking to make the most of those few hours on the train, bus or in your car? Consider these options.

Do what you can to shorten it
With the right tips and tricks, you can shorten your commute by quite a bit. One of the biggest advantages is seeing if you can avoid rush hour. Find out whether office hours are flexible or try arriving early close to work and killing time in the morning by heading to a nearby gym! Small things, like getting a toll pass in the car or finding alternate train and bus routes could also help you out.

Listen to a book
If you’ve yet to discover the magic of audiobooks, now’s the time. Watch even the most congested train ride or worst traffic disappear as you’re wrapped up in the plot and characters of a classic or the latest best sellers. Best of all, an entire library can fit on a smartphone!

Try pedal power
Why not forget the car or public transit and make the most of your commute by turning it into a workout that’s sure to have you energized and revved up for a day at the office? Just don’t forget your helmet.

Why a jog the morning before your interview could land you the job

Veronica C. — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:19:11 +0000

Why a jog the morning before your interview could land you the job

The benefits of exercise on the brain have long been documented, but you probably don’t need a litany of scientific reports to back up that information. Just think about how great you felt after your last workout! Along with that satisfying soreness in the muscles, you’re suddenly alert, ready for anything, feeling invincible! Not a bad way to walk into a job or internship interview.

It might seem small and insignificant, but going for a jog or full-fledged run a little while before you interview for a job could have you revved and at the necessary level of self-assurance to pull off the best conversation of your professional life. But don’t stop there. Looking to feel good as you swagger into that conference room? Consider these other tips.

Eat well
If you’re full of bacon and pancakes as you sit at the front desk waiting for your interviewer to come grab you, that bloated feeling probably isn’t doing your stamina or mood any favors. Stick to something light and healthy instead, but don’t skimp on carbs – those are energy.

Dress well
While you can leave the tux at home, dress in your favorite jacket and tie or favorite skirt – the kind of look you’d take out on a (semi-formal) date.

Have a mantra
Keep yourself pumped and excited with a short mantra, just a few memorable words you can repeat to yourself when you need them most.

Study abroad checklist for England

Veronica C. — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:12:26 +0000

England is a tempting option for many college students looking to study abroad. But is it right for you? Consider this checklist to help you make up your mind.

Great internships for political science majors

Veronica C. — Tue, 14 May 2013 14:20:50 +0000

Great internships for political science majors

It’s been said that all political science majors daydream about changing the world. While some of them imagine grassroots movements that usher them into the White House, others just want to improve a community or the plight of others. Whatever your grand dreams, you’ll have to start small with an internship or two. Consider these great internships for political science majors.

Political campaign volunteer
During your four years of college, there will be at least one campaign for election. If you can get a gig volunteering for a party or candidate at any point, it could be a great opportunity. Campaigns are always recruiting college students.

Not-for-profit assistant
With so much good being done through the efforts of not-for-profit groups across the country, an understanding of how these organizations work can be very useful.

Law firm intern
Many poli sci students go on to law school. If you think this may be the route you want to take, consider interning at a law firm one summer. It will help you decide where to go next in your academic journey.

Getting To Know Your Coworkers 101

Veronica C. — Fri, 10 May 2013 14:33:37 +0000

Getting To Know Your Coworkers 101

As most of us know, making friends is tough, especially when you’re the new kid on the block. If you’re starting a new job, you may not be on the lookout for a plethora of best buds, but you certainly want to know your coworkers better and may even strike up some friendships in the process. Don’t fear though, with these tips you’re sure to be well on your way in no time.

Introduce yourself to everyone
Be the one to break the ice with an introduction. A simple handshake or hello can be all you need to begin an acquaintanceship with someone.

Remember names
It’s true of excellent politicians, and it’s sure to benefit you here. Do your best to remember the names of all the folks you meet. This can be hard to do with some people, so try using mnemonic devices or just quiz yourself every so often.

Share your lunch hour
Lunch hours – whether at a local spot or in the break room – are a great opportunity to chat with coworkers. Don’t be afraid to talk about the office at first, but moving onto non-corporate matter is sure to be welcome as well! If necessary, there’s no shame in talking about the weather.

Hit up the bar
It’s a rare office that doesn’t have groups gathering at a local watering hole at least once a week after work. Hang out with your coworkers and watch the stress melt away as everyone loosens the neckties and relaxes with a beer or two.

How college can help you build your resume

Veronica C. — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:29:41 +0000

How college can help you build your resume

While it may seem like your work experience isn’t likely to improve much until after college, you can add much more to your resume than simply a BA during your time in school. In fact, college is rife with opportunities to improve your standing with future employers. Consider these options for improving your prospects.

Campus job
Whether you’re working as a lab assistant or library clerk, holding a campus job for the majority of your time at school is sure to show employers your tenacity. Even the lowly dishwasher can show that she or he sacrificed non-academic hours to stay ahead financially. Plus, the extra cash during the school year itself doesn’t hurt either!

Internships
College students know more about internships than any other demographic. With many schools requiring that students seek out internship opportunities during winter or summer break, it’s no wonder that many students have served as interns three or four times by graduation. Internships are simply a great way to expose yourself to a variety of fields and better understand the world outside academics.

Professors
Besides offering excellent resume advice, your professors will be important personal references. It’s a great idea to get to know your professors during your four years of higher education, but stay in touch with them for as long as possible afterwards as well! They’re sure to be a valuable source when it comes to the job search.