Advice for College Students: How to Start Your Career Before You Graduate

As a 23-year-old recent graduate, I am proud of what I have accomplished thus far in my career. I currently manage a variety of departments at a growing startup in downtown San Francisco. Instead of giving you the “All you need to do is work hard” speech, I’ll actually break it down into steps:

1. Find your motivation.

This could mean wanting more money, wanting to impress your family, wanting to make an impact, etc. As soon as you find that motivation, you’re already halfway there. Many college students these days lack the motivation to move forward in their careers. The reasons range from their parents still supporting them, to not knowing what they want to do. It is your responsibility to find out what drives you and to hit the ground running. I am in no way saying to rush finding this motivation- I took five years to finish college because I switched my major four times! The remainder of this article is mostly aimed towards those who have figured out what interests them.

2. Never stop working & start if you haven’t.

Clubs on campus and fraternity work can be great for your resume, but finding and keeping a paid job is key to developing and demonstrating work ethic. I really stuck out from other candidates my age when I was interviewing because I worked full-time during school and took night classes to finish my coursework. Half of my jobs in college required a Bachelor’s Degree, but I managed to get around that requirement because the hiring manager could tell that I am a hard worker by my job history. You should always be asking yourself, “Does this activity benefit my resume more than another?” It may be one of the hardest times of your life, but in the end your hard work will pay off.

3. Get an internship or four.

Internships are a great way to figure out what skills you want to be utilizing during your career. They usually do not require that many hours per week (compared to a full-time job) and there are some internships that you can do on the weekends and weeknights. Employers are typically required to introduce you to a variety of skills related to your discipline, and it is a great way to find out if you want to keep heading in that direction. Internships are a great way to build your network and can possibly turn into your first job if the circumstances are right.

4. Network. Network. Network.

I would be nowhere near where I am in my career today if I hadn't networked. Fun fact: I’ve never written a cover letter due to this. Networking doesn’t mean going out and making a bunch of friends at the bar; networking entails presenting yourself professionally to an acquaintance and eventually working your goals into the conversation. I remember letting one of my friends know that I wanted a job as a technical recruiter, and it turned out that he used to be one! The next day I had an interview at a company where I eventually landed the job. It really does pay to know people! Not only is networking beneficial, but it is also fun to take a break from your studying and work routine.

5. Start low and work your way up.

Pick a company where there is an opportunity for growth, not just for the base salary. It is important to be able to afford rent and groceries, but if taking the pay cut means learning a variety of skills at an entry-level job, then do it! It will benefit you, in the long run, to pick a job where there is an opportunity for growth over a job that has a decent base salary with little to no growth.

6. Apply to everything.

It is better to have a lot of options than to have no one respond to you. Don’t be picky in the start of your career- you may end up loving a job that you wouldn’t have even considered while applying. Find out what really interests you while you are young.

7. Be confident & optimistic.

Everyone has started out in your position- this is the time to work your tail off if you want to reach your goals. My independence, optimism, and confidence in myself have been key factors in getting me to where I am today.

I hope this helps and good luck!