Looking for a job, internship, or research experience and don’t know where to start? Believe it or not, recruitment for Summer 2022 has already begun! But right now is the perfect time to start preparing to land the perfect opportunity for you. Here is a step-by-step guide for how to get the experience you need to succeed:

Step 1: Know your resources – and use them!

USG has its very own Career & Internship Services Center that offers small group career coaching as well as a variety of online resources. Your home institution’s career center will also have tons of appointment types and free resources to help you explore your options and prepare your career readiness toolbelt. These offices exist solely to help you land the job, so don’t be afraid to use their help during every step of this process!

Step 2: Polish your documents.

Your professional documents – resume, cover letter, portfolio, etc. – are your frontline allies to getting you a summer experience. These documents are your first impression, and can make or break your chances. Here are some great online resources for getting started:

How to Write a Resume Employers Will Notice – from Indeed

7 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter with No Experience – from Firsthand

Step 3: Start Networking.

What does networking even mean anyway? As a college student, how are you supposed to know who to connect with, or how to do it? This is where those resources I mentioned come in handy. The USG Career & Internship Center as well as your home institution’s career centers will have many events that allow you to connect with employers. Go to these events early and often, create an amazing “Elevator Pitch“, get active on LinkedIn, and keep their contact information – that will help with the next step…

How Do I Create a Good LinkedIn Profile? – from LinkedIn Help

Step 4: Follow-up and prepare for an interview.

Once you’ve started growing your network, don’t be shy! You can call, email, or send a message on LinkedIn thanking recruiters for their time and asking about opportunities for an Informational Interview, or even a job interview. If you get an interview – congratulations! A few big tips for a job interview:

• Do your research on the organization so you know exactly what’s important to them.
• Bring copies of your resume so you can easily remember your skills and experiences.
• Follow-up AGAIN after the interview thanking them and restating your interest.

If you thoroughly follow all of these steps, you should be well on your way to finding a fantastic summer experience to help you continue to succeed in the future. Good luck!