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How Do I Get A Job Or Internship?

By Casey Rooney ’18

This question comes up often in the Center for Career Development by students in all class years. The trick is that there is no one path for every student to take in order to secure a job or internship. While each path is different, here are some guidelines to help you with your search!

  1. Networking. Having a strong network is one of the most important tools when searching for a position. You must build this network over time by attending alumni events, creating a LinkedIn profile, and engaging with employers. When the time comes leverage this network! 
  2. Search and Apply. Be on the lookout for internship and job deadlines throughout the semester! Use Crusader Connections as well as other search engines to find the position that is right for you. Come by Hogan 203 to get your resume and cover letter looked at before submitting! 
  3. Interview. If invited for an interview do your research! Know about the company and the individuals that will be interviewing you. Schedule a mock interview with Career Development to help prepare. 
  4. Thank you. Be sure to send a thank you note or email to anyone you met with within 24 hours of the interview! This important step can set you apart from the other candidates. 
  5. Negotiation. If offered the position be prepared to negotiate benefits and salary. Stop by the Career Development Center and talk to a counselor for guidance!
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8 Tip for Creating Your Resume

By Casey Rooney ’18

Writing a resume, especially for that position you really (REALLY!) want can be a very difficult task! The Center for Career Development is always willing to help, no matter what stage you are at in the writing process. Here are 8 tips to consider while you are staring at your computer screen drafting your resume.

Keep the resume to one page

A resume is defined as a one-page summary of your academic, employment, and co-curricular experiences. It is important to get all the necessary information onto your resume, but the length should not exceed one page.

Keep the formatting simple and consistent

A messy resume may cause distraction to the employer and hurt your chances of being considered for the position.

Reread you resume

Grammar or spelling mistakes could be a make or break!

Use strong action verbs

In your descriptions, be sure to use powerful verbs that describe what your previous activity/position entailed.

Highlight your leadership positions

Employers love to see what leadership experience you have so make sure you make it clear!

Have your contact information at the top of the page, and make sure it is current

Give the correct information so the employer can contact you!

Avoid using acronyms or Holy Cross specific jargon

If you are a member of SGA, be sure to describe it as employers may not know what you are referring to.

Get your resume approved by the Center for Career Development

Stop by the Career Center during drop-in hours to get your resume approved in order to apply for jobs and internships on Crusader Connections.

What are drop-in hours? Watch this video to find out.

Looking for an example of a resume? Log in to Crusader Connections and navigate to the Resources tab and search for “Resume Handout”. There you will find more tips, an example resume, and a list of action verbs.
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Maximize your Fall Break

FALL BREAK is finally upon us! While we would never dream of undermining the importance of sleeping, watching re-runs of Law & Order SVU and mulling over this year’s Halloween costume options, we know Fall Break also provides the opportunity to maximize your internship & career search. Here are some quick tips for you to tackle over break:

  • Research: Whether you are applying for an internship or full-time position, researching companies before you apply is essential. Many corporate websites feature a “Career” section, so take a look at what kind of positions are available and what qualifications they require. Also, check out our very own Crusader Connections to see what positions are available to you. (We post A LOT of jobs/internships for you!)
  • It’s October, Buy a Costume: No we don’t mean for Halloween…yet… Rather, invest in some staple business outfits so you are ready to roll for upcoming interviews or networking events.
  • Seniors –Apply! Those words may have left a bad taste in your mouth that even apple cider can’t fix, but it’s finally time to start applying. Many employers (especially in finance or other companies with training programs) set their deadlines in early October! So keep searching and sending out your resumes & cover letters! P.S. You’ve got this.
  • Polish: One can never proofread their resume too many times. Bonus: If you’ve had prior professional experience, develop a portfolio of work you’ve done to bring to interviews.

…..Alright, break open the bag of Candy Corn. You deserve it.