The Post-Grad Reality

    Our country has made it quite known that securing a job after graduation is one of the most difficult things we could possibly do in this economy. But do we really understand the reality of it? And do we know how to overcome it? Probably not, but let me help you get an idea of what to expect.

   Just the last few months have given me exactly what I expected: no luck and no job. This isn't uncommon amongst college grads, but it is frustrating. I've written countless cover letters and attended several career fairs. Sound familiar? I thought so. In the communications major, thousands of students will graduate in the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut). Sounds scary, but it's probably one of the more popular majors around and everyone wants to do it. So what happened to me?

  Having interned with several small businesses and two (2) non-profits, I have gained experience in different areas, allowing me to understand a business. But what I find interesting is that I have experience, but companies want their own unique type of experience. So...this has led me to pretty much checking Indeed.com almost every day. I've written probably over 100 e-mails and letters and what's the most time consuming is the waiting game. Tedious? Yes. Worth it? Totally.

  Now, some may wonder what I've been doing while waiting for callbacks. Simple: I applied to a store in the mall, Rue 21. I had my first day this past week and I love it. My goal is to work in fashion and beauty, and that's exactly what they're giving me the opportunity to do. Rue has amazing fragrances and they're only $9.99!! And instead of spraying multiple times a day, they are oil based and you may only have to spray a total of 2x depending on what you're doing. I sprayed Revert, a nice clean, refreshing, and eco-friendly fragrance, only once and it lasted me all day. And no, I'm not just saying that. But let's get back to the point: stay occupied!

 Whether you're interested in psychology, education, or communications (like me), keep yourself busy. By researching happenings in your field of choice and current events, you will become more aware and confident on any interviews you will go on. If I hadn't decided to apply to Rue, I would be stuck in my room looking for almost nothing. A start is a start and that's the reality of it.

  Tips For Staying Occupied Post-Graduation

• Apply, apply, apply!
• Network (Use LinkedIn to connect with Alumni and group members)
• Research and read
• Go on an informational interview
• Take up a hobby related to your field
• Work retail (you'll want extra $$ for the commute to interviews anyway)
• Ask Questions 
• Spruce up your resume
• Read All Work, No Pay
• Pre-order Welcome to the Real World