Tips to prepare for summer jobs

by Sheldon Bloom

Searching for summer jobs and internships can be daunting, but students can equip themselves by preparing for their search and interview ahead of time.

Troy University Career Services offers many resources for students to practice for interviews, locate interested employers, and fine-tune their resumes.

According to Career Services, students often wait too long to begin looking for summer jobs. 

“Students should start looking just after the first of the year to actually apply,” said Lauren Cole, director of Troy University Career Services. “However, the most effective way to find an internship or job is by networking, so it’s never too early to build relationships. 

“Try to start meeting people as early as possible by targeting employers you are particularly interested in.”

Cole said students should also practice for their interview, as they’ll only have one chance to leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

“Soft skills are things like communicating effectively and sharing stories through life experience,” Cole said. “At Career Services, we offer mock interviewing in our office, as well as through our webpage using a software called Big Interview, which offers immediate feedback. 

“The software offers students interview scenarios for a variety of different majors and job types, and students can even adjust the difficulty level.”

Students should also make sure their resumes are tailored to the specific needs of their potential employer, Cole said.

“We like for students to use our website resources to build their resume,” Cole continued. “For undergrad students, one page is usually sufficient, but never more than two. 

“Try to make it concise; not too wordy. Tell the employer the most you can in the least number of words.”

Lastly, Cole said it’s important to dress appropriately when making first impressions, as professionalism is often the first thing an employer notices.

To aid in professional appearance, Career Services maintains a Career Closet where  students may select three pieces of clothing for free each semester. 

To find out when the Career Closet will be open, schedule a mock interview, or get help with resumes and job searches, visit @troyucareer on Instagram or email troycareer@troy.edu.