Many college and university students find themselves learning online or indulging in a bit of Netflix.
While many students are enjoying a small break between the first and second semester, students are encouraged to make good use of their time. According to Boston Media House public relations lecturer and managing director of Alerting Media Claire Jackson-Bernardo, this could most probably be one of the last opportunities that students will get to ‘get their life in order’ before the final stretch and the ‘inevitable CV-sending’.
“Preparation is key and time is of the essence. Covid-19 has affected everyone but don’t let it be too much of an excuse for not being ready for your future,” she said.
Jackson-Bernardo shares seven easy steps that will help students prepare for the end of their final year of studies:
- Final CV updates: In addition to the list of subjects you studied, show what skills you learned while studying and how these skills can benefit your employer. “You may also need specific CVs for different fields you hope to enter, now is the time to have everything ready to send out at a moment’s notice,” said Jackson-Bernardo.
- Get your driver’s or learner’s license: Students who dream of owning a car one day should begin preparing for it now. “When you start a job you won’t have time to leave the office for lessons or tests so try to schedule as much as possible now; this also includes updated IDs and passports.”
- Volunteer: According to Jackson-Bernardo, volunteering is a great way to meet new people and learn a new skill. There are also an abundance of organisations out there that are in desperate need of an extra pair of hands. “It shows us what kind of person you are and that you are willing to spend a few hours a week helping someone in need.”
- Watch webinars: Students are encouraged to take up the opportunity to engage with the many discussions happening online. Jackson-Bernardo noted that webinars provide a convenient space for individuals to open their minds and broaden their skill set.
- Clean up your social media: Have a look at your past posts and pictures over the years and ask yourself what do they say? What would a potential employer think about you based on what you say and do online?”As it gets proven time and time again, your online past can come back to haunt you.”
- Read everything: Jackson-Bernardo noted that many professionals use their time to write excellent opinion pieces about the future of the industries that they are in. Students should take up this opportunity to read what these professionals have to say.” You can also sign up for industry newsletters and updates to make sure that you are totally up to speed with what is going on in your chosen industry.”
- Follow the people you want to work for: “If you have an agency, a person, or a brand you want to work for, you should be stalking them online. Not in a creepy way, [but] in an educational way,” said Jackson-Bernardo.
This will provide students with insight into the role or business that they are interviewing for and allow them to ask relevant questions based on what they have learnt.
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