Advice for college of Human Ecology students
I’m Mary Ellen Barkley, the Career & Employment Services Liasion to the College of Human Ecology, and am happy to help you with your job search. Feel free to call my office and make an appointment if you need help, or email me if that works better for you. I’d be glad to review your resume, discuss ways to effectively look for a job or internship, and talk about how to brush up on your interview skills.
Favorite Job Search Sites
View my favorite sites for Human Ecology majors (PDF). Be sure to utilize multiple methods of searching.
Prepare Yourself
If you’re not getting interviews, it’s time to evaluate why. Could be the job market, or it could be that your resume doesn’t effectively reflect your skills. Don’t wonder-- make an appointment, or email me for a resume review.
While we’re on the topic of preparation—are you ready for an interview? Watch this video and find out. And read our Interview Guide. You can even set up a mock interview with a CES advisor. Because people who practice, do better. Really.
How Networking Works
You’ve heard it before—“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” At least part of that is true—you do know people. And they may know someone who knows something about your next job. So let people know you’re looking. Better yet, become an expert at using the hidden job market in your job search (PDF).
Be Flexible
Consider an internship following graduation. It’s a great way to gain related experience, make contacts in your field, and can even lead to a full-time position down the road.
You might also think about taking a "bridge" job in an industry outside of your chosen field. Try and keep your hand in professionally, even if it means volunteering in organizations while working elsewhere. Want to make a difference and gain new skills? Consider working directly for a service based organization like Americorps or City Year.
Stay Positive
It’s been 20 years since Bobby McFerrin won a Grammy for “Don’t Worry be Happy.” He's got a point, but sometimes it can be challenging. So here are some tips for staying positive in the job search, and why it matters.
Worth Reading
Strengths Quest: Discover and Develop Your Strengths in Academics, Career & Beyond, Clifton, Anderson and Schreiner.