Graduating unemployed

Many graduating seniors are getting fearful and nervous as the end of the semester approaches, realizing they've yet to land their dream job.

The end of a student's college career can cause a lot of anxiety. Losing the student identity and joining the work force, finding the right job that satisfies their interests and transitioning from dependant to independent are the things that college grads have to face.

The list induces higher stress levels, concerns about money and struggles to meet parental expectations; however, there are ways to reduce this overwhelming stress and focus more on the road ahead.

"An effective job search can take up to 6 to 9 months," said Laura Johnson, a counselor at Career Services. "Consider an internship, temp work or volunteering while conducting your job search to gain experience."

Redefining the career search to specifically desirable positions can help make the job search routine less tedious.

"Develop a clear job objective and action plan, organize yourself, create a support group and try to maintain a positive attitude," Johnson said. "Make sure you have a well-crafted resume and cover sheet and work on sharpening your interview skills."

Keeping a balance and making sure that frustration does not win the battle is very important during a job search. It is common to hold a temporary job, sustaining a comfortable life until the right job comes along.

Using the Web to peruse different job search engines has become a widely accepted method, but a thorough hunt should go beyond the Internet. Grads should look for jobs through networking and connecting with people in the field they wish to eventually occupy, Johnson said.

"Networking through friends and family should be first then branch out," Johnson said. "Networking by mail by using professional format and writing thank you letters and e-mail contacts can help."

Many available jobs are not listed on a search engine or anywhere online, which means that grads need to get creative and use the people they know and their experiences to get ahead in their field, according to Johnson. Not getting that first big job is not the end of the world.

"Stay focused and do not let rejection discourage you," Johnson said. "Do not give up on the chosen industry, do not let the economy dictate your job choice and do not stay in your comfort zone."

Researching employers is another way to get ahead. Potential employees should know all there is to know about the company they wish to work for, because it shows dedication and interest, Johnson said.

"Make a plan and schedule your time," Johnson said. "If you want a job you have to work for it so make the job search your number one priority. Follow through and think outside the box in order to stand out."

Preparation is key. Graduates, present and future, need to stay on track and remain dedicated in their search for career opportunities. Earning a degree is only step one; step two is doing something with that degree.

"Stay focused and do not let rejection discourage you," Johnson said. "Do not give up on the chosen industry, do not let the economy dictate your job choice and do not stay in your comfort zone."

Earning a degree is only step one; step two is doing something with that degree.