UCS B
C a r r Ma n ua l 201 7 – 201 8
grad.calpoly.edu
ENHANCE YOUR CAREER WITH A GRADUATE DEGREE FROM
WHY CHOOSE US?
LEARN BY DOING
50+ PROGRAMS
DISTINGUISHED FACULTY
APPLIED RESEARCH
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Industrial Engineering
Psychology
ime.calpoly.edu
psycd.calpoly.edu
The Master of Science in Industrial Engineering is designed to prepare students for a successful career in the industry. Students sharpen both technical knowledge and non‑technical skills, such as project management and communication—the key to success in any professional field. Students may also choose to specialize in Integrated Technology Management which blends engineering with a solid business background.
The Master of Science in Psychology fulfills, through comprehensive and broad study of the field of Psychology, the educational requirements for the state of California’s Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) license. The program’s mission is to provide the State of California with highly competent master-level clinicians trained to counsel individuals, couples, families, and groups in a multicultural society.
Nutrition fsn.calpoly.edu The Master of Science in Nutrition is designed to prepare graduates for advancement, specialization, and leadership in nutrition or healthcare careers. Students may work with faculty from several departments and choose a research topic from a broad range of themes including human nutrition, animal nutrition, kinesiology, public health, business, or social sciences.
Business Analytics cob.calpoly.edu The Master of Science in Business Analytics is an interdisciplinary business degree program that encompasses economics, finance, accounting, marketing, and information systems. It offers a holistic approach to data analytics, combining qualitative reasoning with quantitative tools to identify key business problems and translate data analytics into decisions that improve business performance. Students will acquire broad training in all aspects of business analytics with a particular emphasis on industry projects, statistical modeling and communication.
Fire Protection Engineering fpe.calpoly.edu Cal Poly offers a Master of Science degree and two Graduate Certificate Programs in Fire Protection Engineering (FPE). This program will prepare students to become licensed professionals in Fire Protection Engineering. Fire protection engineers work with architects and other engineers, state and local building officials and local fire departments to build and maintain fire safe communities.
2017–2018 Career Manual Palmer
Our Mission
To educate and empower all students and recent graduates to prepare for and pursue success.
Our Vision
To inspire students to explore and gain knowledge of their occupational goals, to attain competencies and relevant experiences, to develop professional relationships, and to apply their education and unique attributes to address the needs and challenges of the world through their work.
Putting Scholarship, Leadership, and Citizenship to Work Career Services is located across from Storke Tower and adjacent to HSSB UCSB Career Services, Bldg. 599 University of California, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, California 93106-7140 Monday–Friday; 8:30am–4:30pm Break and holiday hours vary 805-893-4412, Fax: 805-893-8023 career.sa.ucsb.edu
We dedicate this year’s Career Manual to our Career Peers For over 30 years, Career Services has been supported by the great work of student
employees, our Career Peer Advisors. Although their roles have changed over the last few decades, their impact has remained the same. Career Peers remind us why we do this rewarding work and encourage us to constantly innovate our programming and services to reach newer generations. The dedication, loyalty, brainpower, support, creativity, humor, and encouragement that Career Peers provide UCSB’s Career Services is immeasurable and unparalleled. Although many peers thank us for providing them employment, career opportunities, and a supportive place to work, it is Career Services that ultimately receives the most benefit from such an amazing group of UCSB students.
Editorial Staff
Erin Ryan
Editor
Lilly Erickson
Marketing Intern
Contributing Writers
Amanda Asquith Monica Ballón-Kalinowski Leticia Cardenas Lori Cooper John Coate Kathy Dunson Lilly Erickson Maddie Foster Ignacio Gallardo
Micael Kemp Lily Maestas Brittany Manzer Bridget Mastopietro Emmie Matsuno Caroline Mecartea Derek Musashe Dave Palmer Michael Rogers
Erin Ryan Robert Sams Maya Salmon Teresa Stankis Molly Steen Jo Ann Villanueva-Salvador Emily White
Cover background taken by Matt Perko Additional staff photographs, photographic illustrations, and design by Palmer and Erin Ryan The University of California in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in any of its policies, procedures, or practices; nor does the University discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. This nondiscrimination policy covers admission and access to, and treatment and employment in, University programs and activities, including but not limited to, academic admissions, financial aid, educational services, and student employment. Inquiries regarding the University’s equal opportunity policies may be directed to Raymond Huerta, Affirmative Action Officer, (805) 893-3089. A UCSB Career Services publication, 2017–2018 All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Introduction 4 Career Exploration 8
Getting Started Worksheet Choosing and Using Your Major Career Assessments Career Resources Informational Interviews Sample Informational Interview Questions
Table of Contents
9 10 12 14 15 17
Get Experience 18
19 Benefits of Experience 19 Types of Experience 20 Internship Application Process 21 Internship Toolkit 22 Programs with Internships and Professional Preparation 23 Maximizing Your Study/Travel Abroad Experience 23 GoinGlobal 24 International Opportunities 25 Post-BA Internship and Volunteer Resources
Job Search Strategies 26
27 Job Search Methods 28 Employer Research 28 Employment Agencies 29 Career Fair Success 30 Transferable Skills 32 Networking 33 Online Search 34 Identity Management 36 On-Campus Interviews 37 Be Careful Out There 38 Build Your Personal Brand 40 On the Web 42 Your LinkedIn Profile
Check out our brand new online job board!
Job Search Tools 43
44 46 48 49 50 52 75 76 78 79 80 85 86 88 90 91 93 94 96 97
Gaucho Paths to Success (GPS) Resume Writing Action Verbs/Skill Sets Resume Outline Example Job Opening Sample Resumes Curriculum Vitae Undergraduate CV Sample Cover Letters Made Easy Cover Letter Outline Sample Cover Letters Following Up After Applying Sample Reference Page Interviewing for the Job Behavior-Based Interview Sample Interview Questions & Answers Closing the Interview Interview Dress Negotiating the Offer Handling Job/Internship Offers
UCSB 2017-2018
Career Manual
Graduate and Professional Schools 98 99 99 100 101 104 105 106 107 108
Is Graduate School For Me? Types of Graduate and Professional Schools Graduate School Timeline Building Qualifications How Do I Pick a Grad School Graduate School Exams Grad School Application Process 3 Ps of Grad School Interviews Choosing Among Offers
Diversity Matters 110 Veterans 116 Life After Graduation 117
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Leadership Team
Introduction
Counseling Amanda Asquith Career Counselor Student Experience Coordinator
About us... Ignacio Gallardo Director
Emily White Associate Director
John Coate Assistant Director Monica Ballon-Kalinowski Career Counselor
Maddie Foster STEM Career Counselor
Derek Musashe STEM Career Counselor
Maya Salmon Career Counselor CRR Coordinator
Lana Smith-Hale Career Counselor
Molly Steen Career Counselor
Jo Ann Villanueva-Salvador Career Counselor
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Eric Wilder Career Counselor
Career Counseling
Our career counselors provide the full range of career development services through appointments and drop-in advising.
Career Assessment
Career assessments, such as the Myer's Briggs, Strong Interest Inventory, and Cliffton Strengths are available for students seeking to identify their career interests, personalities, and strengths to help with career decision-making.
Workshops and Info Sessions
We put on over 20 workshops per quarter and 20–30 information sessions on different companies, graduate and professional schools, and gap year experiences.
Get Experience
We serve as a clearinghouse for information on local, state, national and international internships and provide access to many opportunities through Handshake, our online job listing service.
Graduate Student Services
Career Services is a key resource and trusted ally to UCSB graduate students in regards to all aspects of their career development. We work closely with PhD and masters students in successfully navigating and achieving their career aspirations, whether within or beyond the halls of academia - including counseling/coaching, career assessment, career planning, CV/resume consultation, and graduate student specific workshops and events. Because of the unique nature of career development needs for graduate students, Career Services has developed a Graduate Student Career Guide containing targeted material specific to the needs to graduate students. Some resources in the guide include career exploration tips, job search advice and resources, non-academic CV, resume, and cover letter samples, and interview strategies. Hard copies of the guide are available at Career Services and the Graduate Student Resource Center, or it can be accessed on our website at career.sa.ucsb.edu.
...Career Serv ices Overv iew We value each individual as unique and part of a diverse and inclusive community.
Leticia Cardenas Employment Services Specialist
We provide undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates with caring, customized service, individualized to meet the changing needs of students and the job market.
We participate in a wide range of partnerships with employers, campus
and local communities, and academic and administrative departments to enhance the development of students.
Kathy Dunson Career Employment Specialist
Introduction
Principles of Services
Administration
We employ the best tools – both in person and online – to maximize the accessibility and effectiveness of our services.
We maintain a collection of carefully selected resources both in our
Stacey Flores Events Coordinator
Career Resource Room (CRR) and online.
Online Resources
[Labs, Website, Choices, etc.] Career.sa.ucsb.edu is one of the best college websites in the country. We also have a computer lab accessible to students with software that assists with career and graduate school decisions.
Job Search
We connect students to employment through campus interviews, quarterly career fairs, and Handshake, our online job listing service.
Graduate School Application Help We assist with graduate and professional school selection and applications, including statement of purpose critiques.
Career Resource Room (CRR)
The crown jewel of our services. This analog and digital library holds worlds of information: choosing a major, career planning, graduate school applications, the job search process, and information for graduate students.
Dear Student, I am happy to present you with the 2017–2018 UCSB Career Manual. Many incredible people worked very hard to create such an outstanding publication, including those on these pages. This year we are very excited to welcome you all to Handshake, our brand new online job board (replacing GauchoLink). Come into Career to learn how to use this helpful new tool! The Graduate Student Career Guide is also ready. This is a completely separate guide specifically geared toward this population and can be picked up at Career Services and the Graduate Student Resource Center (GSRC) in the SRB.
Cristal Garcia Events Assistant
Suzi Heidner Administrative Assistant
Bridget Mastopietro Acting Business Officer
Erin Ryan Marketing Coordinator
Robert Sams Technology Coordinator
Here's to an amazing year, Erin Diana Seder Employer Outreach Manager
Teresa Stankis Administrative Assistant
5
Introduction
T
2017/2018 Career Partners
here’s nothing like having a partner who believes in you. At Career Services, we know how powerful it is to open our doors to friends from outside of our academic circle. We know there is much more to the corporate world than company logos and formality. Our partners are great friends who care about the success of Gauchos as much as we do. These friends play a critical role in building and continuing the career development and employment services we deliver. Just as students come to us for our services and support, our Career Partners also advocate for their success with carefully allocated community budgets. We thank them.
Diamond Circle PROCORE US MARINE CORPS YARDI
Platinum Level APPFOLIO CITY YEAR CONTINENTAL ENTERPRISE FORESTERS FINANCIAL PAY JUNCTION
Gold Level
NORTHROP GRUMMAN PEACE CORPS TEACH FOR AMERICA
6
Career Peer Advisors are comprised of enthusiastic, dedicated students who are employed by Career Services to assist in your career development. You can find them in the Career Resource Room. Career Peer Advisors serve a variety of important functions, including the following:
• Maintain and locate career materials in our career library • Help you register for and navigate through Handshake (UCSB’s job/internship database) • Sign you up for the career assessment program • Assist in finding internship and study abroad opportunities. • Conduct outreach workshops and serve as student ambassadors for Career Services • Provide tours of Career Services • Give referrals to advisors, counselors, or other campus agencies
Introduction
Career Peer Advisors
Apply to be a Career Peer Advisor
If you have a particular interest in career development or want to help empower your fellow students, we encourage you to apply for a Career Peer Advisor position! Career Peers are employed for 10 hours per week and need to commit for the entire academic year. Applications are available during the Winter quarter for the next school year, and can be accessed on Handshake. You can find more information on the employment section of our website: career.sa.ucsb.edu/work-career-services/career-services-peer-advisor
What Past Peers Have To Say... Being a Career Peer is truly the best job on campus because we are constantly learning and figuring out our own career paths through working with students. Working here is a great balance between getting exposure to the real world and having fun. –Alexa Dickinson Being a Career Peer has been an amazing experience. I have learned more about myself than I thought possible. From learning how to manage my time to figuring out different career paths I can take. The resources and support I have received at Career Services have helped me in my personal, academic, and professional journey. –Regina Ramirez Being a Career Peer is one of the best opportunities on campus to help fellow students formulate and reach their particular career goals, while also honing your own skills to be better prepared for and competitive in getting dream jobs and internships. If you care about your future, UCSB Career Services is the place to be! –Jacob Houchen
Don’t hesitate to ask one of our Career Peers to help you with your job search inquiries.
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Career Exploration
Career Exploration Career exploration helps you determine
what career options might be the best fit for you. We begin career exploration by engaging in an exploration process of self and occupations. Gain a better understanding of yourself by enrolling in career planning courses or taking career assessments. Access our vast library of occupational resources by spending time at the Career Resource Room. Use the “Getting Started Worksheet� to launch your career exploration process.
Getting Started Worksheet Choosing and Using Your Major Career Assessments Career Resources Informational Interviews Sample Informational Interview Questions
8
1
Self Exploration
Career Exploration
Getting Started Worksheet
Find out more about yourself and what you want in a job.
Take the Strong Interest Inventory Take the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Take Cliffton Strengths for Students Take Focus 2 Read the Career Manual Use assessment exercises in career books Sign up for Handshake (UCSB’s online job/internship database) at career.sa.ucsb.edu
Career Focus
Get internship experience Do volunteer work Get part-time/seasonal/full-time work Go on company visits Study abroad Research graduate programs, if necessary for your interests Use Handshake to find internships, part-time or seasonal employment
Job Search
Investigate possible occupations and compare them to the results of your self exploration. Review books in the career library Conduct informational interviews Attend lectures by guest speakers Talk to your professors Explore career information at www.bls.gov/ooh Read books and journals in your field Talk to friends and family Attend our LinkedIn workshops
3
Explore your choices, determine the fields that are the best fit for you and the world of work, and acquire resume-enhancing experience.
Make a successful transition from school to work.
2
Occupational Exploration
4
Attend our career fairs Attend our Job & Internship Search workshops Get job interviews through On-Campus Interviews Write a resume and cover letter Get your resume critiqued by a counselor during drop-in Find full-time job listings using Handshake Apply for post-B.A. internships Create a budget to identify the minimum amount of money with which you can get by Research possible employers using the internet, Chambers of Commerce, etc. Visit employers Network with friends, family members, professors, current or past employers, etc.
9
Choosing and Using Your Major
Career Exploration
Choosing Your Major
A common question asked is, “How do I choose a major?” The best major meets two requirements: 1. Choose what you are good at 2. Choose what you are interested in
Try to determine where your interests lie and identify majors that match those interests. For more specific recommendations, come to the Career Resource Room to obtain the GPS Career & Major Exploration handout. Additionally, check out Career's "Choosing a Major" page, which includes a comprehensive list of UCSB majors, resources, and career options.
Declaring Your Major
Talk to either an undergraduate advisor in the department or with an academic advisor in the College of Letters and Science or College of Engineering for declaring a specific major.
Myths About Majors
1. My major will determine my career. FALSE. More than ½ of all college graduates pursue careers that are not directly related to their major.
2. Most college students choose their
majors based on how much money they can make.
FALSE. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ Graduating Student & Alumni Survey, 67% of students chose their major because they liked the kind of work it will allow them to do. Only 6% chose their major based upon how much money they would make.
3. Double majors do not necessarily make you more marketable.
TRUE. Unless passionate about two subject areas, seeking a minor in writing or another language may be a more effective method to complement your educational and career goals.
ALUMNI ADVICE Not everyone comes into college knowing what they want to do in life. College is hard, but it is also a time in your life when you grow and find yourself. Think about things you are interested in, look for new opportunities (classes or not), try it out, and maybe with luck, you’ll find your inspiration to succeed on your first try. Being passionate and inspired by what you are doing or studying is the first step in your path to success. —Rafael Aguilar
4. The earlier you choose a major the better.
FALSE. More than ½ of UCSB students change majors at least twice before they graduate. However, one strong recommendation is if you are considering a major in science, you need to declare this from the start of your program, since a lot of courses are offered in a particular sequence. Otherwise, not knowing this from the beginning may result in delaying your graduation date beyond four years.
Diversity Matters Diversity as Strength
10
The cultural landscape of the workforce is becoming more diversified as people identify with a multitude of cultural identities, such as their ethnic and linguistic backgrounds and sexual orientation. In addition, traditional identities, such as gender, are being transformed and given new meaning in the world of work. The staff at Career Services view diversity as a strength, as it offers multiple perspectives and novel solutions towards addressing issues within the workforce. See our Diversity Matters section on pg. 110 for more information.
Double Majors
Minors
Besides double majoring, pursuing a minor is another possible route to consider. However, it is important to keep in mind UCSB’s 200 unit limit rule. If you truly find that you have a keen interest in a secondary subject area, select a minor that is slightly different from your major. But remember: earning a minor does not equate to making you more marketable in the eyes of a future employer.
Certificates
There are a number of professional certificates you can receive while at UCSB. Some are offered through UCSB, UCSB Extension, and the Exercise and Sports Studies Department. Come into the CRR to learn more!
Using Your Major
There is a major misconception that choosing a major equates to choosing your career. This is not true for most students. More than ½ of college graduates pursue careers that are not directly related to their major. Your major at UCSB will give you expertise in an academic discipline but does not necessarily prepare you for a particular career path. On the other hand, there are a few majors that are exceptions to the rule, such as Engineering or Accounting. These majors should prepare you for a career since they provide specialized training and knowledge to work in these professions. However, in most cases, especially for those graduating with a liberal arts degree, it is important to learn how to assess your strengths and market yourself effectively in the job market.
Diversity Matters Women For information on the resources available for women and the support available as they seek higher education and successful careers. See our Diversity Matters section on pg. 110.
College of Letters and Science Minors
American Indian and Indigenous Studies Anthropology Art History Asian American Studies Astronomy and Planetary Science Black Studies Chemistry Chinese Classics Comparative Literature English Feminist Studies French Geological Sciences German Studies Global Peace and Security History Italian Studies Japanese Jewish Studies Labor Studies Latin American and Iberian Studies Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Studies Linguistics Mathematics Mathematics for High School Teaching Music Philosophy Physics Portuguese Professional Writing with tracks in: Professional Editing Writing and Civic Engagement Multimedia Communication Business Communication Science Communication Russian Sociocultural Linguistics Spanish Speech and Hearing Sciences Statistical Science Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Women, Culture, and Development Check our website for info on each!
Career Exploration
Double majoring is a good idea if you love two subjects and can’t choose between them. However, it’s not a good idea if your motive is to impress. For the most part, neither employers nor graduate programs are particularly awed by double majors. The exception is if one major is in arts, humanities, or social sciences and the other is in math, hard science, or engineering. If you can demonstrate both quantitative and qualitative skills, you’ll be in high demand.
Gervitz School of Education Minors
Education with tracks in: Educational Studies Teacher Preparation Applied Psychology Science and Mathematics Education
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Career Exploration
Career Assessments Most people have three to five careers in their lifetime. We recommend that you engage in self-assessment periodically throughout your professional development rather than viewing it as a one-time event. Come into the Career Resource Room and talk to a Peer about which assessments are best for you!
FOCUS 2
This self-directed program enables you to take up to five assessments to help you identify career interests. After you have taken the assessments, select “Narrow and Refine Your Results” to see a report of recommended occupations to research. This assessment is great for first and second year students wondering about what to major in.
Strong Interest Inventory®
This assessment evaluates your career interests and matches them to the six Holland occupational themes. You can see how your interests compare to people in over 100 different occupations.
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator®
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator tells you about your personal style in relation to the workplace. Use this assessment to identify characteristics of your ideal career and understand what careers are popular with people who share your personality type.
Cliffton Strengths for Students
Cliffton Strengths will help you better understand your range of talents and develop your Top 5 strengths. Finding a career that is a good fit for your talents is a key element of the career exploration process. Cliffton Strengths relates to positive psychology and theories of student development to help you gain insight in areas of potential interest and reflect on the things you naturally do best. This is the time to discover, develop, and apply your strengths. Doing so will help you get ahead in your career goals and to help you find meaning and success by using your strengths in leadership, life, academics, and the workplace.
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Assessments Information
Assessments are free of charge to registered students and graduates within the one year grace period. Whether you need help choosing a major or are contemplating a career change, assessments are a valuable tool for decision-making. You will be provided with a report and a consultation with a career counselor. In order to get your test results, you must attend an interpretation with a career counselor. This will help you get the most out of your tests, and provide you with valuable information from experienced professionals. Learn more: career.sa.ucsb.edu/students/careerplanning/assess-yourself
Career Exploration
ADVANCE YOUR CAREER WITH PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES Program areas include:
§ HR Management § Marketing § Paralegal Studies § Accounting § Project § Applied Behavior Management Analysis § Business Leadership § Strategic Business § Technology § Child Life Management
GRADUATE ON TIME WITH OPEN UNIVERSITY This is a way for graduating seniors to save money while taking their last few UCSB classes. Available fall, winter, and spring quarters. Contact your academic advisor to see if Open University is right for you.
805.893.4200 | extension.ucsb.edu/career 13
Career Resources
This is the central hub of our department. Take advantage and check out all the valuable resources we have to offer, from signing up for an assessment to picking up a career handout. We feature hundreds of books across numerous disciplines including access to an online career library: career.sa.ucsb.edu/careerresources/online-career-library. If you need additional assistance, don’t hesitate to stop by and see a peer advisor or counselor during drop-in hours Monday to Friday; 11am–4pm.
Holland Occupational Themes
sa.ucsb.edu/career-resources/ online-career-library. Click
on your preferred section to find majors, minors and career options that suit your interests.
ENTERPRISING
The Holland Codes organize your career interests IO and occupations into six broad categories. Two T N or three Holland Codes dominate each E V person. You can find out your N Holland Code by taking the O C Strong Interest Inventory assessment. You can conduct your research online using the occupational profiles in our online library, career.
L A N
Prefer direct service or helping opportunities involving advising, counseling, coaching, mentoring, teaching, or group discussion. Drawn to humanistic or social causes. S
O
CI A
L
RE AL IS TI C Prefer to solve abstract problems involving science or engineering related subjects. Curious about the physical world and why and how it works. Enjoy intellectual challenges and original or unconventional attitudes.
A
I T R
I T S
I N V E S T I G AT I V E
Career Exploration
Career Resource Room (CRR)
C
Employers Rate The Skills/Qualities In New College Hires Skills/Quality
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Importance Rating
Ability to make decisions and solve problems
4.7
Ability to verbally communicate with persons inside and outside the organization
4.6
Ability to obtain and process information
4.6
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work
4.5
Ability to analyze quantitative data
4.4
Technical knowledge related to the job
4.2
Proficiency with computer software programs
4.1
Ability to create and/or edit written reports
3.7
Ability to sell or influence others
3.6
Weighted average. Based on a 5-point scale where 1=Not at all important; 2=Not very important; 3=Somewhat important; 4=Very important; 5= Extremely important. Source: Job Outlook 2014 Spring Update, National Association of Colleges and Employers
To get the best overview of a career, talk with several people in the careers you are exploring. Conducting informational interviews is most effective after you do initial research in the Career Resource Room and have a general idea of the occupation you are interested in.
Network
TAs, SUPERVISORS, FRIENDS, AND RELATIVES: These people may be invaluable sources of contacts for potential interviews you may want to conduct while in school or when you return home during school breaks. Use your personal network and develop LinkedIn connections.
Career Exploration
Informational Interviews
PROFESSIONAL OR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS: Call the Chapter President for referrals to professionals in their organization who might be willing to speak to you about their positions. Many organizations have formal mentorship programs that are designed ALUMNI ADVICE just for this purpose. To find associations in your area of interest, see: LinkedIn and Online Career Library Career Binders. I visited schools that offered GOOGLE: For example, do you want to interview an architect? Use courses in publishing (and the internet to find a few that you could talk to in your area. Or find a ultimately spent a summer at firm to call explaining to the receptionist that you want to interview an NYU learning about my chosen architect, and ask him/her who might be willing to give you a half hour. industry), I investigated entry You can then speak with the person and explain your request. level jobs and learned about the leading companies. I used Call or email for an appointment Here is a great example of how you can ask for an informational interview: Career to find internships and “Hello. My name is Sue and I am a student at UCSB. I was hoping you opportunities in Santa Barbara. might be able to give me some advice. I saw your ad online and thought Employers want to see that you your firm might be a good place to start. I am doing some research on have the job skills they need the field of city planning. Do you think anyone in your firm might be and that you got them through able to meet with me for 15 or 20 minutes to answer some questions I’ve applicable experience outside written up about work in the field? When would be a good time to call of your standard education. her about an appointment?” Once you know what you Prepare for the appointment want to do, become as familiar DRESS APPROPRIATELY: You want to give a good first impression. as possible with everything Although this is just an informational interview, you may have the related to that job through opportunity later to ask about referrals for job openings, or to help you personal research and targeted network into the profession. experience. CONFIRM YOUR APPOINTMENT: Call or email on the day before —Kalie Koscielak you meet. Arrive early. CLARIFY YOUR PURPOSE: A good opening might be: “I am not here to ask for a job. What I really want are your opinions and advice about your field and what I need to do to prepare myself if I decide to enter this profession.” TAKE THE INITIATIVE: Remember you are the interviewer. You provide the structure for your meeting. When you introduce yourself, you may want to chat briefly about yourself so that the interviewee can get a sense of who you are and why you are interested in exploring this field. ASK FOR REFERRALS: Ask for additional people who may be able to assist you. Interviewing more than one person in the field will give you a broader sense of the field and more information to consider. PREPARE QUESTIONS: Make a list of questions to ask during the interview. Refer to pg. 17 for suggestions.
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Follow-up
Career Exploration
SEND A THANK-YOU LETTER: Write to your interviewee within a few days to express your appreciation for the information and courtesy extended to you. DROP A NOTE: If you were given a referral which turned out to be a “gold mine” of information, drop a note to the person who made the referral. People appreciate knowing when they have been helpful. FOLLOW UP: Later, when you do enter the field and accept a promising position, a followup thank you would be polite. For tips on responding to emails or judging job offers come into the CRR and talk to our Peers!
1234 Sabado Tarde Goleta, CA 93117 March 6, 20xx Ms. Felicia Cortez ABS Company 1234 Company Road Santa Barbara, CA 93106
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Informational interviews aren’t only about gathering information—they are also about making valuable contacts. One student interested in event planning lined up a series of informational interviews with professionals in the Santa Barbara area. During one of the interviews, she indicated that she was interested in relocating to San Diego, and the professional was able to give her the name and number of a colleague working there. The student conducted an informational interview with an event planner in San Diego, and was amazed to receive a phone call from her a week later offering her a job! The student accepted and is now happily employed in her field of choice.
Dear Ms. Cortez: Thank you so much for meeting with me yesterday afternoon. I greatly appreciate you taking time out of your schedule to answer my questions. You helped me tremendously both with the information you provided and with your excellent advice. I will go to the meeting you recommended to me, and contact the Association President to find out the time and location. I hope to see you there. I will keep you posted on my progress. Thank you again. Sincerely,
Jonathan Coronado Jonathan Coronado
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Job Description
◆◆What exactly is your job title? Describe a typical work week. ◆◆What are some of the problems/decisions you face? What skills are required for handling them? ◆◆What are the most satisfying aspects of your work? Most frustrating? ◆◆Would you trace your own career path for me? What might a beginner expect? ◆◆What is the typical salary range for a beginner in this field? For an experienced person?
Career Exploration
Sample Informational Interview Questions Impact on Lifestyle, Rewards, & Demands ◆◆Are there deadline pressures? Is overtime common? How flexible is your schedule? ◆◆How much travel is there in this occupation? ◆◆How does this occupation affect your social and/or family life?
Professional Development, Preparation, & Advancement ◆◆What professional associations do you belong to and why? Which ones should I join? ◆◆What are the trends and developments in the field that are affecting entry-level people now? ◆◆What education/degrees/training/licenses are needed? If not mandatory, recommended? ◆◆What university courses do you recommend for an undergraduate as preparation? ◆◆What is the effect of an advanced degree or specific training? ◆◆What are the best schools in your field?
Job Search Advice & Referrals ◆◆What kinds of entry-level jobs do you think are good training grounds for a person entering this field now? ◆◆What are some of the criteria that a new entrant should use when considering a specific position? ◆◆Where are the types of jobs advertised? ◆◆What qualities make for a successful candidate? ◆◆What other people would you suggest I speak to about this career field? Do you have their email or phone numbers? May I use your name? ◆◆REMEMBER: Do not ask for a job, this is purely to get information.
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Talk To Campus Experts PROFESSORS... While professors are generally interested more in research than in applications in their fields, they can still hold a wealth of information. They may be able to tell you what types of entry level positions exist in careers in their fields. Depending on the types of research they conduct and the methods they employ, they may even know people in their fields you could talk to. Professors can be VERY helpful in discussing graduate education required for careers in their field and which schools and programs are best.
CAREER COUNSELORS... Stop by the Career Resource Room or front desk for suggestions on which career counselors to see in an individual appointment based on your specific educational goals or career area of interests. While all of us have a general knowledge of most industries and career fields, some of us will also have specific suggestions for how to best direct your career or job search for particular career areas.
CAREER CONFERENCES, JOB FAIRS & SPEAKERS... There are a number of conferences, workshops and colloquia held every year by a variety of departments, clubs, and associations that can help you learn about specific careers and employment options. Career Services often organizes panels of career incumbents to talk with students about their careers. Watch for our printed quarterly Workshop & Event Calendar and our online calendar for times and places of these events.
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Get Experience
Get Experience! Internships & Beyond
Learning should go beyond the classroom. It’s important to get experience that will help you become familiar with the world of work and prepare you for jobs, graduate school, and other professional post-graduation goals. Internships might be the most common type of experience you will hear of, helping to get you from college to career, but other professional opportunities can also provide the necessary hands-on experience and important skills needed to qualify you for employment and graduate school. These include volunteering, research, studying abroad, working part-time, getting involved in student organizations, and other careerrelated training experiences. The goal: get experience through opportunities offering a chance to explore a particular industry, gain job function skills, provide training with a professional supervisor, and give you the extra edge to complement your academic learning.
Benefits of Experience Types of Experience Internship Application Process Internship Toolkit Programs with Internships and Professional Preparation Maximizing Study Abroad/Travel Abroad Experience GoinGlobal International & Gap Year Opportunities Post-BA Internship & Volunteer Resources
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Benefits of Experience Increased Experience and Confidence
Landing an internship or other experiential learning opportunity is a chance to apply your knowledge in a real world situation that gives you a taste for an industry you may be interested in pursuing after graduation. Studying a major is one thing, applying that knowledge to “real world” situations is entirely different.
impression during internships and other experiential learning opportunities and cultivate your relationships with supervisors and colleagues. These relationships make a difference!
Future Job Offers
Contacts and Networking
Tap into a network of professionals that can offer references, advice, and information about new job opportunities. It’s very important to make a strong
Check our calendar for activities and workshops to prepare you for internship searches and networking with employers. Come by Career to have your application materials reviewed.
Get Experience
According to a recent survey by the National Association for Colleges and Employers, 75% of employers prefer to hire applicants with relevant Resume Builder work experience. Where can you get relevant Relevant experience is the first thing employers look experience? Internships and beyond! For example, for when recruiting. Experiences such as internships many companies use internship programs for their can be paid or unpaid and you can seek opportunities recruitment efforts. Working with interns gives them locally, nationally, and internationally. Internships and the chance to try out motivated, ambitious students other experiential learning opportunities are a great before employing them. If the intern makes the grade, way to develop skills outside of the classroom. the company may make a permanent job offer.
What is Experiential Learning? Experiential learning is essentially learning by doing. This is where students can apply knowledge and concepts learned in the classroom to real-world settings by taking part in internships, research, and other types of co-curricular opportunities. Gaining hands-on experience is essential for deepening an understanding of coursework and also developing competencies needed to be successful in the world of work. Experiential learning complements academic preparation so that students can become more confident and competitive for full-time jobs, graduate school, and other post-graduation goals.
Types of Experience There are many ways that students can gain relevant experience outside of the classroom while here at UCSB. Consider opportunities such as internships, research, study abroad, volunteer opportunities, and other hands-on positions that allow students to develop skills and test-drive careers. Leadership positions and involvement in industry-related student orgs can also provide relevant experience to build your resume.
Get involved early on in your college career. It can be beneficial to join student orgs, work part-time, or volunteer during your first year or two in order to build experience when applying to internships a little farther down the road. There are many types of student orgs to join on campus and many ways to volunteer in our local community. Once you have established yourself in these organizations, take on leadership opportunities. When you move further into your college career, definitely consider other great ways to build skills such as joining research and fieldwork experiences either on- or off-campus as well as studying abroad to gain a broader world view and take part in international research and internship opportunities. When looking to gain experience, it's important to research the preparation needed for a particular field.
Internships are one of the best ways to gain relevant experience. Find local, part-time, full-time, paid, or unpaid internships on Handshake. More than 200 different opportunities in non-profit, government, media, and business-related organizations can be found throughout the academic year. Don’t overlook on-campus peer advising, leadership, and student affairs internships that can offer valuable career-related skills as well.
ALUMNI ADVICE Supervisors and colleagues from a part-time job or summer internship are excellent additions to your network, so do your best to make a positive impression with your work ethic and performance. When you conduct yourself professionally and go above and beyond what is expected of you, people will remember you favorably if they are contacted later to provide a reference. —Andrea Michaelian
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Internship Application Process
Get Experience
When & How to Apply for Internships
Students need to carefully follow the directions from Most internship programs are targeted to juniors and the company or organization website for internship seniors. However, focused, career-directed sophomores applications. Some prefer applications be submitted online through their websites, while others will accept may also be considered. Students seeking part-time, an email cover letter note and attached resume. Others local options can typically apply the quarter before they wish to begin. Apply early for a competitive edge. expect students to apply through Handshake where resumes and cover letters are first uploaded. Resume February through mid-March is a critical window and cover letter reviews are strongly encouraged for recruiting summer interns. The “Big Four” through our daily drop-in advising service in our CRR, accounting firms and certain larger technical firms Monday to Friday; 11am–4pm. typically screen for summer internships as part of OnCampus Interviews during fall quarter. Fall deadlines Typically, full-time, paid programs are used by are common with CIA, FBI, and the Department companies to recruit future employees. Therefore, they of State because they require a six-month security can be quite competitive. A cover letter and résumé are clearance. These programs and many others can be mandatory for all national internship programs. For combined with the popular University of California summer research positions, recommendation letters and Washington Program, also known as UCDC (www. a short essay may be required. See Hot Resources below duels.ucsb.edu/academics/ucdc/about). Deadlines are typically two quarters before start dates, and can be to explore these types of programs. found on the website. E x p e rt A d v i c e
Paid vs. Unpaid
Pay is important, but not the main goal. Internships with a salary are nice; however, don’t accept a mediocre internship just because it carries a stipend and the other does not. It is not uncommon that unpaid arrangements may result in compensation later. Many industries cannot afford to pay interns and yet traditionally employers use internships as a screening device-hoping to identify individuals who have the skills and attitudes they want in career employees. If you have questions about paid vs. unpaid internships, come speak to a career counselor!
HOT RESOURCES Handshake
career.sa.ucsb.edu/handshake
Best database for on-campus, local, and part-time internships year-round, including summer.
Way Up
www.wayup.com
This site has over 300,000 startups, local businesses, and Fortune 500s have hired through this website. Intern Bound
"Find An Experience"
career.sa.ucsb.edu/internships/opportunities
Find internship search engines and organizations to support your internship exploration. You can filter your search by interest, location, and opportunities related to your major in order to navigate this extensive list of resources.
Handout Hub
career.sa.ucsb.edu/resources/handout-hub
Visit the Handout Hub (online or in the Career Resource Room) for industry specific resources and links to assist in your search.
Internships.com
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www.internbound.com
Lists internships mainly in Northern and Southern California, and also in the Pacific Northwest. More than 90% of the internships on InternBound are paid. Any unpaid internships are quality positions in the corporate, government, or nonprofit world. Internship programs are year round and seasonal. Search by category, keyword and/or company. Internship Programs
www.internshipprograms.com
A very robust site to search for California internships. Additional sections help you evaluate the quality of opportunities, provide tips for the application process, and go-to advice to make the most of your internship experience. Idealist
www.idealist.org
www.internships.com This resource includes internship opportunities of 14,000 nonUse your UCSB umail address when setting up an account to profit or community organizations in 25 countries in addition to get access to the world's largest internship marketplace. public service information and volunteer positions.
Internship Toolkit
The Internship Toolkit is a new resource designed to help students and employers strengthen internship opportunities by providing best practices, UCSB campus resources, and fillable template forms to help record and formalize the learning components of the professional experience. The Toolkit can be used to:
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Talk To Campus Experts PROFESSORS...
Evercore Frank, Rimerman + Co. LLP Elliot Davis Decosimo Northwestern Mutual KPCB Brain & Company Capital One CapTech Nickelodeon Animation Studio Perella Weinberg Partners Source: Forbes, 2017
How to earn academic credit associated with an internship: Some students and/or employers may seek academic credit associated with an internship. In general, UCSB does not require student interns to receive academic credit related to an internship and the availability of earning credit related to internships varies in each academic department. Students interested in academic credit associated with internships should consider these items:
While professors are generally interested more in research than in applications in their fields, they can still hold a wealth of information. They may be able to tell you what kinds of entry level positions exist in careers in their fields. Depending on the types of research they conduct and the methods they employ, they may even know people in their fields you could talk to. Professors can be VERY helpful in discussing graduate education required for careers in their field and which schools and programs are best.
CAREER COUNSELORS...
Stop by the Career Resource Room or front desk for suggestions on which career counselors to see in an individual appointment based on your specific educational goals or career area of interests. While all of us have a general knowledge of most industries and career fields, some of us will also have specific suggestions for how to best direct your career or job search for particular career areas.
CAREER CONFERENCES, JOB FAIRS & SPEAKERS...
There are a number of conferences, workshops and colloquia held every year by a variety of departments, clubs and associations that can help you learn about specific careers and employment options. Career Services often organizes panels of career incumbents to talk with students about their careers. Watch for our printed quarterly Workshop & Event Calendar and our online calendar for times and places of these events; our weekly Gauchos Get Going email blast also offers a lot of great news for what's coming up at Career!
Get Experience
Plan internship details, establish agreed upon learning objectives with supervisors, and encourage regular feedback and future training Provide a framework for discussions with supervisors about recommendations and letters of reference, proposals for increased responsibility, or consideration for future employment Propose internship positions or projects to employers who may not have an active advertised internship description or posting Outline internship information using supplemental documentation that may help organize the pursuit of independent research/academic programs
Career encourages students and employers to collaborate and complete the Intake & Learning Objectives Form and the Feedback Form to better structure the internship. The Toolkit is available in the Resource Library which is accessed from your left toolbar when logged into Handshake.
Top Ten Internships for 2017
1. Students do not receive credit for an internship alone, and campus availability for coursework associated with internships varies across departments and majors. Students should first consult academic advisors and course catalogues about availability of courses or Independent Research. If an option is available, departments will require specific coursework, research, and prerequisites for courses associated with an internship in order to earn credit. Some students choose to pursue an course at another college. 2. Interns may consider providing proof of UCSB enrollment to employers if it will meet the internship hiring process for the specific company or program. Students should consult their internship supervisor first. Proof of UCSB enrollment can be requested through the UCSB Office of The Registrar or student GOLD account. 3. Career does not give academic credit and is not authorized to sign internship agreements. We can provide general guidance and referral to appropriate resources. Contact the Student Experience Coordinator: CareerInternships@sa.ucsb.edu
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Get Experience
Programs with Internships & Professional Preparation The following programs all have mandatory internships or other professional opportunities to better acquaint students with the real-life working world. You should start preparation early in your college career because there are often prerequisites. For more information check out the program websites.
Professional Writing Minor
The Minor in Professional Writing offers exposure to a range of communication practices in academic and professional communities through three prerequisite courses, two senior capstone courses, and an internship. You should think of the Minor in Professional Writing as an apprenticeship in the TMP world of professional writing, and not simply as a Technology Management Program set of courses in which someone will tell you what The Technology Management Program’s educational to do. For more information visit www.writing.ucsb. programs include classes in management, edu/academics/minor. entrepreneurship, new product development, marketing, and much more taught by world class scholars, highly successful business lecturers, and ALUMNI ADVICE entrepreneurs. In addition, the program includes networking with California’s top business and Were it not for the Professional Writing entrepreneurial leaders, a New Ventures Competition Minor, I would have felt completely that actually launches successful new ventures, lost after graduation. No other course student mentoring, an evening lecture series, and at UCSB helped prepare me for the endless ways for participants to develop and practice rigorous process of applying for jobs in their leadership skills. For more information visit the way this minor did. www.tmp.ucsb.edu/. —Kelly Jones
Education and Applied Psychology Minor
This minor is designed for students who want to work with research faculty and learn more about issues confronting education, for students preparing for a teaching career in elementary or secondary education, and for students exploring a career in counseling, clinical, or school psychology. Students choose to follow one of three tracks: Applied Psychology, Educational Studies, or Teacher Preparation. For information visit: www.education.ucsb.edu/academic-programs.
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Department ListServs Contact your academic department advisors to be added to listservs to receive emails about opportunities for internships, volunteering, and community events related to your field. NOTE: You can be added to a listserv outside of one's major.
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Examples : Handshake for industry and major specific Care Mail Environmental Studies Health Professions
Film and Media Studies Career Connections for Econ majors Psychology Communication
UCSB Extension
As the continuing education division of UC Santa Barbara, UCSB Extension (extension.ucsb.edu/ index.jsp) is open to anyone seeking professional and personal development. Areas of study often have specific certificates and include (but are not limited to): Accounting: Business & Professional Business Leadership Child Life Gifted & Talented Education Marketing Paralegal Studies Strategic Business Technology Management
Maximizing Your Study/ Travel Abroad Experience 1.
2.
Prepare before you go so you can make the most of your stay. Make friends with an international student from the country you hope to visit. Research and prepare a quick country reference guide. Besides your English resume, consider preparing a resume in the language of the country you plan on visiting. Bring at least one business-attire outfit to wear for possible interviews and fill in with additional clothing from the local area as needed. Research your country of interest and opportunities through GoinGlobal on our website.
3.
Volunteer in your particular discipline (i.e., accounting, marketing, web design) for a local NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) as part of a work-based project that you can use as a future resume builder. Check out organizations by going to www.idealist.org or GoinGlobal.
4.
Meet professionals in your field of interest while overseas. Network for possible jobs. Befriend the local expatriates while there. Attend conferences in your field of interest. Research U.S. companies doing business in the overseas city nearest you. Conduct informational interviews with those you meet to get more information on a field of interest.
5.
Move beyond your comfort zone. Consider a home-stay arrangement. Join student clubs where the majority of members are local students (i.e., AIESEC, Model UN). Join a multicultural student work team as part of your assigned classroom projects. Check out International Jobs and Internships at www.ihipo.com/
Get Experience
Check the UC EAP (Education Abroad Program) website for internships, field-based research projects, and/or volunteer opportunities at your study abroad destination. Talk with other students to get ideas of learning experiences that they have taken part in while abroad. Start your quest for internships before you leave and continue the moment you arrive: www.eap.ucsb.edu/
6.
Travel regionally. Secure a flexible ticket to allow for this. Take advantage of nearby weekend travel discounts. Befriend local area students and families. Get invited to join excursions and holiday travels. Broaden your horizons.
7.
Talk about your travels while applying to jobs back home. Abroad experiences are valuable to many employers, so consider mentioning them in your resume, cover letter, and interview.
GoinGlobal Jobs here, there, everywhere
Expert advice for finding jobs at home and abroad. Available from within Career's website, GoinGlobal Country Career Guides are the ultimate jobseeker’s tool for finding employment at home and abroad! Packed with country-specific career information, each guide has been developed by a local career specialist, updated annually, and features recommended websites and detailed resource descriptions for such vital employment topics as: Job search resources: general and specialized job sites, job fairs, newspapers that publish job ads, government employment offices, executive search firms, and temporary staffing agencies Country employment outlook and key industry trends all over the world Resume/CV writing guidelines and examples Interview advice Cultural advice
The USA and Canadian City Career Guides fast track finding employment opportunities within the largest and most dynamic metropolitan areas in North America Top company listings: corporate profiles of the largest employers including NAICS descriptions, revenue and full contact information Industry-specific trade and professional organization info: issues of special concern for foreign professionals, education requirements, trade associations and industry websites Business resources: trade councils, chambers of commerce, and other professional and social networking groups Work permit and visa regulations Finance and compensation information: taxes, housing, transportation, cost of living, medical insurance, vacation/leave, pensions, social security, and more
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International Opportunities Interested in an international internship, career, or post-BA experience? It is critical to identify your reasons for searching abroad and focus your goals. Consider the following questions to help focus your international and national search: Decide: Answer the question, “What is the focus of my search?”
Get Experience
Region of World: Where do you want to go? Language: Do you want to go where they speak a language you already know, or do you want to learn a new language? Professional Focus: What type of work experience do you seek? Do you want the opportunity to work in a specific industry, population, or practice a particular skill? Academic Major: Where can you go to gain relevant experience for your studies? If you’re interested in art, perhaps you could consider Madrid. If you are interested in automotive engineering, perhaps Germany would be a viable destination. Use GoinGlobal to research industry trends in specific countries. Desired Objective: Do you want to immerse yourself in a completely foreign culture? Are you looking for an alternative “gap year” option after graduation? Is your goal to gain particular experience in an industry? Would you like to help fight for a cause internationally? Use GoinGlobal, which is available on our website. GoinGlobal is our featured tool for your international internship and job search, and city-specific search in the U.S. and Canada: career.sa.ucsb.edu/students/job-search/goinglobal Visit our International Opportunities page for websites and resources that provide information on a variety of abroad experiences, travel information, and teaching programs. For more opportunities, check out: career.sa.ucsb. edu/students/job-search/international-opportunities
Why Teach Abroad?
Many students seek a way to finance their travel while practicing their foreign language skills in areas of the world they have yet to explore. Without language fluency and a high demand of technical skill, options can appear limited with only a few exceptions. One of these exceptions involves teaching conversational English to those who seek to learn English, especially given today’s global marketplace and areas of diplomacy. Keep in mind, for many teaching abroad opportunities, applications open about a year in advance so plan accordingly. Check out these handouts on our Handout Hub: Internships With A Global Focus Teaching English Abroad
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Post-BA Internship & Volunteer Resources
Surf the Web...
Volunteer for Peace
Transitions Abroad
www.vfp.org
www.transitionsabroad.com
Organizes, promotes, and supports voluntary service opportunities in the US and abroad as an effective means of intercultural education, service learning, and community development.
A great resource for working, living, volunteering, and studying abroad.
GoAbroad.com Search opportunities by your desired country and field of interest.
Take a hands-on approach to making a difference around the world. Attend one of their Info Sessions during the year at Career, check our online calendar for details!
BUNAC
JET Programme
www.bunac.org
www.jetprogramusa.org
Find opportunities to work, intern, or volunteer abroad.
The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program offers a great opportunity to teach in Japan.
www.goabroad.com/
Hostelling International USA www.hiusa.org
Get connected to different parts of the country through more than 50 hostels.
Peace Corps www.peacecorps.gov
Get Experience
INTERNATIONAL POST-BA OPPORTUNITIES
WorldTeach www.worldteach.org
Become a volunteer teach in developing countries.
NATIONAL POST-BA OPPORTUNITIES City Year
AmeriCorps
www.cityyear.org
www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps
Teach in high-poverty communities, and make a difference in young students' lives. Attend one of their Info Sessions during the year at Career, check our online calendar for details!
Provide service to non-profits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the US.
Green Corps
Receive training and support to teach in high-need communities and bolster education equality. Attend one of their Info Sessions during the year at Career, check our online calendar for details!
www.greencorps.org
Receive the training you need to start a career in environmental organizing.
Teach for America www.teachforamerica.org/
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Facts About International Careers Work permits for career positions are difficult to obtain from a foreign-based company. 85% of all international entry-level positions are based with U.S. Organizations (i.e., U.S. Firms with international contracts, U.S./NGOs, U.S./government agencies with work overseas). 50% of these international jobs are located inside the U.S. Most disciplines, ranging from accounting, finance, human resources, law, to marketing/sales, have an international dimension. Multinationals rarely send staff abroad, and if they do, they send senior or longterm employees. Overseas entry level positions are best found with small and medium size international consulting firms in the industry and fields of interest. Focus on your particular skill set versus a specific country.
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Job Search Strategies Determining your career objective involves researching the occupations and industries that match your interests and abilities. Successful
Job Search Strategies
career consumers diversify their approach, having multiple search strategies operating simultaneously. Some job search methods are more effective than others, but regardless of the strategies used, the best results are achieved by job seekers who actively work their plan!
Job Search Methods Employer Research Employment Agencies Career Fair Success Transferable Skills Networking Online Search Identity Management On-Campus Interviews Be Careful Out There Build Your Personal Brand On The Web Your LinkedIn Profile
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Job Search Methods
There are many ways of looking for a job and each method has its pros and cons. Presented below are some of the most popular job search techniques.
Methods
PROS
CONS
HINTS
Opportunity to try out a career and develop jobrelated skills. Increase your employment marketability and job prospects while expanding your networking contact list.
Create “saved searches� in Handshake to receive Requires time commitment automatic notification on with possibly no pay new job postings. Consider and may not lead to a approaching a targeted permanent job offer. company and creating your own internship.
CAREER FAIRS Research participating employers and their recruiting positions from the Career Services website prior to attending the fair. Be prepared to communicate about yourself, your skills and interests, and what you have to offer.
Easy access to companies targeting college students for employment. A terrific opportunity to gather information about companies, find internship and job openings, and network with company representatives.
There may be fewer companies looking for non-technical and nonbusiness candidates.
Focus your time on employers that match your career goals. Prepare several targeted resumes for specific fields or areas of interests.
NETWORKING Talk to everyone you know to develop a list of possible contacts. Ask for information on jobs/companies and circulate your resume.
May learn of unadvertised openings that could result in a courtesy interview. Often results in a job that closely matches your interests.
A contact in itself is not enough to get you a job. You may exhaust all leads without landing a job. It can be quite time consuming.
Follow through on all leads and keep broadening your network of contacts.
EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES Respond to employment agency ads in newspapers and online.
Paid jobs for graduates with marketable experience.
You need to prepare. Be ready to articulate your job-related skills and experience.
Identify agencies that specialize in your field. Make frequent contact with a counselor to obtain better service.
ONLINE SEARCH Scan job vacancies and want ads on hundreds of databases. Email cover letter and resume tailored to jobs.
Find actual job openings. Many employers use a wide variety of job listing services and are free to low-cost to access. Worldwide geographic reach.
Very competitive due to the number of job seekers viewing websites. Least effective in times of economic downturn.
Use the web frequently as information and sites change quickly. Try to get your materials in as early as possible.
ON-CAMPUS INTERVIEWS (OCI) Attend OCI orientation meeting; register with Career Services. Monitor job postings daily.
One of the primary ways in which companies recruit for technical and business positions.
Tends to favor larger companies with resources set aside for college recruiting.
Check postings each week for interviewing opportunities. Use postings as a way to identify possible employers.
TARGETED MAILING Develop a good cover letter tailored to a specific type of job and the needs of the company. Send letter with resume to selected companies.
Better approach than the mass mailing method. Investment of time and effort should merit stronger responses from employers.
Requires a significant investment of time in researching companies and writing cover letters as well as following up with contacts.
Find out who is in charge of the area in which you want to work; send your materials to that person. Great method when used in conjunction with networking.
IN-PERSON VISIT Visit many companies. Ask to see person in specific department. Submit resume and application, if possible.
Resume and application are on file with the company.
Requires a great deal of time to make a relatively small number of contacts.
Research the companies prior to your visit. Ask for a specific person or ask about a specific type of job.
Job Search Strategies
INTERNSHIPS Register for Handshake and search for internship opportunities. Talk to a career counselor and/or conduct online research to develop targeted internship opportunities.
Source: MBNA Career Service Center, www.studentaffairs.psu.edu/career/, with modifications by UCSB Career Services.
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Employer Research Researching employers helps you identify who is hiring, which positions are available in your field of interest, and what qualifications are needed to apply for openings. In addition, employer research helps when you interview for a position, since employers want to know about your knowledge of the company as well as your reasons for choosing the company. Here are three useful tips for researching employers:
1. Gather information about companies by
accessing directories. See the "Surf the Web..." box on pg. 32 of Public and Private Sector Job Listings for websites that contain lists of employers.
3.
Contact past or current employees and ask them about their experiences working for the company. Family, friends, and the UCSB Alumni Association are great resources to obtain referrals to company employees. If you cannot find a referral, try contacting the employer directly to see if there is anyone willing to speak with you. Here is your chance to get the inside scoop!
4. Research company profiles on Handshake career.sa.ucsb.edu/students/handshake
Job Search Strategies
2. Use your favorite search engine to find official
employer websites. Check if the websites have an employment section that describes which positions are available and what qualifications are required.
Employment Agencies
An employment agency matches job seekers with open jobs. Most agencies charge the employer for the service, but a few agencies charge the job seeker. Clarify the fee policy before accessing an agency’s services. For the new college graduate, there is one thing to keep in mind before you go to an agency: they are looking for specific skills, they are not looking for someone with a well-rounded education and a lot of potential. What they need is someone who can step into a job and do a specific task almost immediately. Computer skills, typing speed, filing, good telephone manners, and customer service are the kind of skills they seek. The technical skills of engineering, computer science, and accounting are also in high demand.
Diversity Matters Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/ Transgender/Queer
For a list of resources, see our Diversity Matters section on pg. 110.
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Surf the Web... EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES Accountemps
www.accountemps.com
Accountemps is the world’s first and largest specialized financial temporary staffing firm for accounting and financial professionals.
Select Staffing www.selectstaffing.com
In addition to a wealth of career services and resources, Select Staffing provides opportunities for you to post an online résumé and apply immediately.
Culver Careers www.culvercareers.com
CulverCareers is a must for students seeking employment in the sales, marketing, and advertising fields.
On Assignment Lab Support www.oalabsupport.com
The sole focus of On Assignment Lab Support is to place scientific professionals in contract, contractto-hire and direct hire positions. These are just a few of the many agencies out there. Use Google to find agencies specializing in your geographical area or career.
Career Fair Success Career fairs are a great way to gather information about companies, find internships and job opportunities, and network with company representatives. Attend as many as possible. Successfully maneuver your way through a career fair by following these tips:
2016-2017 Career Events On-Campus Job & Internship Fair – Sept. 26, 2017 Fall Career & Internship Fair – Oct. 19, 2017
1.
Graduate & Professional School Day – Nov. 2, 2017
Here’s an example: “Hi, I’m Joe Gaucho and I will be completing my second year in Economics after this quarter. I am particularly interested in learning more about your investment banking position.”
Spring Career & Internship Fair – Apr. 19, 2018
Be prepared to answer questions about yourself
2.
Be curious
Based on your employer research, form questions about the company. In a pinch, observe the employer table for a few minutes in order to generate a couple of questions to ask the recruiter.
4. Ask about internship or summer employment opportunities
Most organizations have some type of internship or summer employment program. Find out details about job requirements, number of openings, application procedures and deadlines, and position responsibilities.
5. Inquire about entry-level
career opportunities
“What entry level positions does your organization have available? What are the qualifications you require for these types of positions? What types of onthe-job training are offered?”
6. Leave a resume
Some employers collect resumes during the career fair, so bring hard copies of your resume to hand out. Others may prefer that you email your resume later when you apply for a position.
Please consult our website for more information.
7. Seek out advice and/or referrals
Preview the list of companies and organizations on the Career Services website before the career fair. Prioritize and visit those organizations that fall into professional or industry groups that best match your interests.
3.
Last Chance Job Fair – May 16, 2018
“Do you have any particular advice you could give me given my interests and background?” “Are there any future steps you think I need to take to better prepare me for this field (e.g., professional associations, trade journals, or contacts)?”
Job Search Strategies
Focus your time on employers that match your interests
Winter Career & Internship Fair – Jan. 24 & 25, 2018
8. Be sure to ask for a business card
Drop a personal thank you note in the mail or via email later that week if you think this is a place you might like to work. Let the person know that his/her advice was really helpful, and the steps you will be taking. Wish them well, and stay in touch periodically as appropriate. Ask to see if a followup, on-site informational meeting and tour might be possible. E x p e rt A d v i c e
Early Student Admission
Most of our professional fairs have an “Early Student Admission" hour. This is the first hour of the fair, so you have the first shot at impressing the recruiters. Our recruiters love this hour-they feel that the students who attend are highly motivated and prepared to take advantage of the job opportunities in front of them. There are three requirements for attending Early Student Admission: 1. Dress professionally. 2. Bring a resume that was approved by a career counselor through drop-in hours, an individual appointment, or resume+ ! 3. Check out the event website ahead of time to see who is coming and what positions they are offering. NOTE: You must get a pass from Career Services to gain entrance to Early Student Admission.
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Transferable Skills
“You are defined not by your job title, but by the skills that you possess, which are transferable from, and to, any occupation you may happen to be involved in at the moment.” – Richard Bolles E x p e rt A d v i c e
Give Context to Your Transferable Skills When you communicate your transferable skills to future employees, make sure you place your transferable skills in context. In other words, be able to give descriptive examples of when, where, why, with whom, and how you’ve developed and implemented these skills in your life. This is important because anyone can “claim” to have skills. However, when you give concrete examples, your skills will come across as much more credible. Here are some examples…
Job Search Strategies
Transferable Skill: Organizing Tasks Description: Organized a group of five classmates and delegated tasks for a laboratory experiment in an advanced Chemistry course. Transferable Skill: Professional Writing Description: Published several news articles on the dangers of global warming in a student-run university newspaper.
A question students frequently ask is: How do I find a job without previous work experience? This is a fair question. Most students don’t have a catalogue of past work experiences because being a student is a full-time endeavor. However, you can still market yourself by effectively communicating your transferable skills.
In the words of job search guru Richard Bolles, transferable skills Transferable Skill: Willingness to Learn are “skills we take from Description: Learned how to utilize financial software by actively seeking advice job to job.” In other from a certified public accountant while interning at a large accounting firm. words, transferable skills are non-specific skills that can be applied to different jobs. You learn these skills from everyday activities, such as classes, hobbies, sports, group projects, volunteering, and internships. Being able to communicate your transferable skills is an effective way of enhancing your cover letters, resumes, and interviews.
Matching Skills with Job Requirements
Keep in mind that the primary goal of employers is to find applicants whose skills match the requirements of a particular job. Therefore, it is important that E x p e rt A d v i c e you clearly understand the tasks that are expected of you. There are several ways Identifying Job Skills to obtain this information: The U.S. Department of Labor offers an excellent database, called O*Net, which contains descrip Asking employers directly tions of required skills for nearly every occupation. For example, if you ever wanted to know what an Contacting Human Resources (if available) audiologist does, here is what you’ll find on O*Net: Conducting informational interviews Reading job postings Accessing O*Net database
TITLE(s): AUDIOLOGIST (medical service) Assess and treat persons with hearing and related disorders. May fit hearing aids and provide auditory training. May perform research related to hearing problems. And this is just the first three phrases of the report – take a look to gain an indepth understanding of the occupation: www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-1181.00
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O*Net is available at: www.onetonline.org/
Skill Sets The following is far from an exhaustive list of transferable skills. We encourage you to brainstorm skills that are relevant to your experiences.
Analytical/Research üü Analyzing data üü Assessing problems üü Conceptualizing a study üü Gathering information üü Identifying trends üü Managing a database üü Writing technical reports üü Writing literature review
Communication
Creative
üü Creating images üü Creative writing üü Dancing üü Designing üü Playing instrument üü Graphics software (specify)
Financial/Quantitative
üü Accounting üü Appraising value üü Budgeting üü Calculating üü Cashiering üü Creating spreadsheets üü Keeping financial records üü Financial software üü Forecasting üü Mathematics (specify)
Interpersonal
üü Asserting üü Building rapport üü Cooperating üü Counseling üü Empowering üü Handling complaints üü Managing conflict üü Respecting üü Satisfying customers üü Self-aware üü Supportive üü Team Player
Motivation
üü Accepting responsibility üü Facing obstacles üü Hard working üü Resilient üü Responsible üü Self-evaluating üü Self-initiating üü Willingness to learn
Organization/Admin.
üü Attention to details üü Developing a plan üü Filing üü Keeping inventory üü Managing time üü Meeting deadlines üü Organizing tasks üü Scheduling üü Setting goals
Technical
üü Assembling üü Building or crafting üü Computer software (specify) üü Operating machinery üü Reading blueprints üü Repairing üü Troubleshooting
The assessment should provide you a more realistic picture of your qualifications for a particular position. You can also use the responses in a variety of ways. To indicate a good match, the required skills that you already possess can be highlighted in your cover letter, resume, and/or interview responses. Tasks you are unable to fulfill may direct you to skills that you can work towards developing.
Job Search Strategies
üü Active listening üü Editing üü Facilitating discussion üü Fluent in a second language üü Interviewing üü Negotiating üü Providing feedback üü Public speaking üü Sign language üü Writing (specify)
Leadership
üü Advising üü Coaching üü Coordinating üü Consulting üü Hiring üü Enforcing policy üü Making decisions üü Mentoring üü Supervising üü Training üü Teaching
The next step is to assess whether your current skills match the job requirements. A useful exercise is to complete the transferable skills worksheet below. After researching a job of interest, write the task requirements in the left column. In the right column, write down skill(s) that are needed to fulfill this task.
Use this list of skill sets and the worksheet below to identify and match your transferable skills with your job of interest.
Sample Transferable Skills Worksheet Job: Computer Technical Support Specialist
Tasks*
Transferable Skills
Provide technical support to workers in information processing departments.
Able to set-up and troubleshoot servers, networks, and other computer devices.
Assign and coordinate work projects, such as converting to new hardware or software.
Install new hardware and program existing software to adapt to client needs.
Designate staff assignments, establish work priorities, and evaluate cost and time requirements.
Train and supervise staff, schedule, delegate tasks and conduct cost/benefit analysis.
*Task descriptions for “Technical Support Specialist” taken from the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (U.S. Department of Labor).
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Networking: the Hidden Job Market What is Networking?
Perhaps you are familiar with the old adage, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” Looking deeper into this phrase reveals the importance of establishing relationships with people who can help you move forward with your career. It’s about connecting with individuals and developing a relationship from which you can seek advice and request referrals to get your foot in the door.
Job Search Strategies
Why is Networking Important?
One of the most important advantages of networking is that it provides access to jobs which are never listed. An astonishing 75-95% of job vacancies are never broadly advertised. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Department, 48% of jobs are obtained by referrals from friends and relatives. One of the important by-products of networking is gaining an insight into the inner work culture and the hiring process of the company/industry of interest. E x p e rt A d v i c e
Career Growth
Begin by making a thorough list of possible contacts who might be able to help you get a job. Expand this list by asking each contact for additional possible contacts. Your contact list includes people in the career field you are aiming for, faculty advisors, past supervisors, people in related fields, other job seekers, prominent and not-so-prominent people.
Scan professional journals, trade publications and employer directories. Attend campus workshops, conduct informational interviews, consult/join organizations, and attend conferences. Use online social networking sites, like LinkedIn. With your list in hand, begin contacting your networking connections first by email, followed by a phone call.
When do I Network?
For the successful career consumers, the short answer is that networking is an on-going process, even after you’ve landed your job. Ideally networking should begin and gain momentum from your freshman year in college and onward.
A good career consumer can decide while reviewing a want ad whether the position offers room for growth by using the following criteria:
üüYou should be able to perform 50% of the job requirements on the first day of employment without any hesitation and How do I Network? with confidence. üü30% of the job you should be able to do within six months of acquiring the position given appropriate training, orientation and mentoring by your new employer. üü20% of the job function should be unknown to you when you apply, allowing room for learning and increasing your skill sets.
By looking at a potential job in this way you eliminate the risk of being overqualified and underpaid on your first job because you are applying for a position you are already 100% qualified for. Once you have reached 100% proficiency in this position you have some decisions to make about your career:
üüDo I stay and continue what I am doing even though I may
be overqualified and underpaid? üüDo I seek other employment elsewhere that I can once again employ the 50/30/20 approach to seeking employment? üüDo I look within my current organization for additional opportunities to build skill and move up in the organization?
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The decision is yours to make because you have chosen a career technique that ensures your continued career growth through your commitment to “skills acquisition.”
Surf the Web...
PRIVATE SECTOR JOB LISTINGS
Career Builder
www.CareerBuilder.com
Monster
www.monster.com
Glassdoor
www.glassdoor.com
PUBLIC SECTOR JOB LISTINGS
America’s Job Bank www.jobbankinfo.org
Idealist.org
www.idealist.org
USA Jobs
www.usajobs.gov
JOB SEARCH BY LOCATION
SimplyHired
www.simplyhired.com
Chamber of Commerce
www.chamberofcommerce.com
indeed
www.indeed.com
Online Search Use the Web
Looking for job listings on the web is just like looking at a newspaper—the pool of applicants is huge and you’ll need to make a good impression if you want the employer to notice your application in the stack. Always start with Handshake, UCSB's job/internship database! (career.sa.ucsb.edu/students/handshake). LinkedIn is also a great place to search for jobs.
Search By Major
Resume Databases
There are also hundreds of services that will post an electronic version of your resume for potential jobs. Be aware that your resume has your phone number and address listed and that there is a potential for hundreds of people to have that information once you submit.
Search By Industry
If you have an idea of your career path, you can search for jobs based on occupational or industry types.
Search By City
Some job searches are dictated by location. Reasons may include being close to family or friends, liking the local weather, or because you root for that city’s sports team. Websites for online Chamber of Commerce, and Craig’s List are great sites to search for jobs by location. E x p e rt A d v i c e
Top 5 Common Job Search Mistakes 1. Foregoing the exploration of what you really want out of a job 2. Relying exclusively on one method of job search 3. Neglecting to do research on jobs, companies, and industries prior to writing resumes or going on interviews 4. Creating only one resume and cover letter for all job applications 5. Assuming that an interview is the same as a job offer
Job Search Strategies
One of the most frequently asked questions we get is for lists of job openings categorized by college major. Find jobs that most closely connect with our college majors through the Career Services website: career. sa.ucsb.edu/students/career-planning/choosing-major then explore Careers By Major. Information is available on professional associations and job listings for your field.
You might want to carefully screen services to be sure that the one you choose will be both productive and safe for you to use.
Source: Taunee Besson, www.careerdimensions-dfw.com
INTRODUCING Handshake is Career Service’s BRAND NEW platform connecting YOU to internships, jobs, employers, and events tailored to YOU. You can easily find the best internships and jobs, and show off your best self to employers. The best part: Handshake continually personalizes career recommendations based on YOUR interests. For more information go to: career.sa.ucsb.edu/career-resources/ handshake-information. If you experience any problems signing in, come to the Career Peer desk in the Career Resource Room.
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Identity Management With advances in online technology, people are able to make their identity more accessible to the public. People can now make customized personal websites and blogs or maintain elaborate profiles on social networking sites. Now that every cell phone seems to support video and audio, it is common to see college students at play on YouTube and related sites.
Diversity Matters International Students
NAFSA’s latest analysis finds that the 974,926 international students studying at U.S. colleges and universities contributed $30.5 billion and supported more than 373,000 jobs to the U.S. economy during the 2014–2015 academic year.
For a list of job search strategies for International Current trends show that employers scour Students and a list of resources, see our Diversity the Internet for information about you Matters section on pg. 110. when you apply for jobs. You can use your online identity to help your chances of getting your dream job. Follow these tips to improve your online, professional image:
Job Search Strategies
1. Know that whatever you upload, type, or comment
on will last forever on the Internet. It is not the personal world that you might think it is.
2. Know that employers read profiles. According to
more than one survey, as well as first-hand examples from our own colleagues, your profile on Facebook is very likely to be viewed by a selection team member when you begin interviewing for a job. Employers can’t resist. If your profile picture displays you doing a keg stand, you might not get into your favorite graduate program.
3. Lock down your privacy settings. If you can’t help
yourself and need to post personal things about your life, make sure you adjust your privacy settings. This will give you a small amount of protection. But it won’t prevent a “friend” from taking a screen picture and then passing that along.
4. Use your social network accounts to build
your professionalism. List books and hobbies that demonstrate that you are well-read, well-rounded, and ready to take on the world. It’s OK to have some fun things on there too, but watch out for anything that might look like you’re a Gaucho-gone-wild.
5. Consider asking a cousin, friend, or even a parent
to look at your site every month or so and ask them to alert you if there’s anything posted that might hurt your chances at making the next, important career step.
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Mismanagement of your online identity can gravely hurt your chances. More often than not, students post inappropriate images of themselves on the internet that raise red flags for employers.
Job Search Strategies
FEW CAN BE MARINES. EVEN FEWER CAN LEAD THEM. COLLEGE FRESHMEN THROUGH GRADUATES ARE ELIGIBLE TO ENROLL IN PROGRAMS TO BECOME A MARINE CORPS OFFICER. TRAINING IS IN THE SUMMER. AVIATION GUARANTEED • TUITION ASSISTANCE • NO OBLIGATION DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR CONTACT THE U.S. MARINE CORPS OFFICER SELECTION TEAM: 7127 HOLLISTER AVE., SUITE 22, GOLETA, CA 93117 • 805-685-1305
UCSB_Officer_Ad_7.25x9.75.indd 1
5/25/16 2:14 PM
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On-Campus Interviews What are On-Campus Interviews?
Over 100 employers, from companies and organizations big and small, travel to UCSB to hire Gauchos. The jobs they offer are predominantly entry-level positions that do not require experience.
You must be a currently enrolled student to participate.
1. Dress Professionally! (see pgs. 94 & 95) 2. Go directly to the waiting room at least ten minutes before your interview time. 3. Have a seat in the waiting room and wait to be called.
How to Get an On-Campus Interview
Employer Information Sessions
Who can Use On-Campus Interviews?
On-Campus Interviews can be managed via Handshake, make sure to login often to check out all of the employers who will be participating. We also have a special drop-in area staffed with career counselors and peers who can help you through the process. Once you have been through the process once, you will find it easy to navigate.
Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
Job Search Strategies
The Day of Your Interview
Use our services to research employers, prepare your cover letters and resumes, and develop your interviewing skills. How much time should you spend preparing for an interview? If you are accepted to interview with a company that makes your personal top-five list, spend as much time studying for the interview as you would for a difficult midterm or a final exam. If this seems extreme, just think about that report card that will show up again and again as you get paid to do what you love.
Check on Handshake to see if your employer is doing an information meeting. If yes, plan to attend and RSVP. To impress the employer, submit your resume prior to the session. And remember...
Dress Professionally.
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Mock Interviews Some students in the past have used OnCampus Interviews as an arena for practicing their interview skills. We strongly discourage this and suggest that the best way to build interview skills is for students to ask anyone at Career Services about interview strategies and resources and/or schedule a Mock Interview with a counselor. Employers spend a lot of money to meet with students who are motivated to join their companies. Students who exploit our prized employers for interview practice can tarnish the reputation of our fine campus. Mock interview questions may be in reference to: creative thinking, flexibility/ adaptability, interpersonal effectiveness, organizational stewardship, personal mastery, systems thinking, and/or customer service. Just one example of a possible question is: "Describe a situation where you felt you have not communicated well. How did you correct the situation?"
No-Show Penalty
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Don’t use a real employer to practice your interviewing skills
Signing up for an interview and failing to show up or cancel 24-hours in advance will suspend your eligibility for interviews until a letter of apology has been written to the interviewer and a copy of the letter brought in for clearance by a staff member. A second “no-show” will disqualify you from participating in the program.
Be Careful Out There Handshake and other online job systems have made it easier for you as job seekers to find positions. Unfortunately, the same technology makes it easier for scammers to create fraudulent positions to take advantage of you. While Career Services does not knowingly accept fraudulent postings, false jobs may appear from time to time. It is very important that you, as a job seeker, exercise common sense and caution. You need to read position descriptions carefully and research companies thoroughly before applying!
Job Scams & Safety Tips
Research Each Company
When applying for any position it is important that you research the company thoroughly before releasing any of your personal information. Review the company’s website Google the company name followed by words such as, “fraud,” “scam,” “reviews,” and “complaints.”
Job Search Strategies
If a position or job offer seems to be too good to be true, if you feel uncomfortable with some of the information requested, or something just doesn't seem right – either back off or proceed with extreme caution. Even if the original position description seems valid, if you receive follow-up emails, phone calls, texts, or job offers that seem unusual, you need to proceed cautiously.
Be Aware of Red Flags
You are hired without ever interviewing or meeting your potential employer. There are multiple misspellings in the job description and in your correspondence with the employer. At the time of hire, the employer tells you they are travelling internationally and needs you to be their assistant or run errands for them. You are asked to give credit card, bank, or PayPal account numbers and/or you are asked to send a payment by wire service or courier. You are offered a large payment or reward in exchange for allowing the use of your bank account - often for depositing checks or transferring money. You receive an unexpectedly large check. You are promised a salary that is way out of range for an entry level position, part-time job, or internship. You are asked for personal information such as your Social Security Number, to complete a background check, or for a photo copy of your ID before being considered for the position. The posting appears to come from a legitimate company or organization, but the contact's email address doesn't match the company's website domain. The position requires up-front fees.
Because it’s important... Résumé Papers Career Guides Thank You Notes Imprinted Accessories
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Build Your Personal Brand What makes consumers buy one thing over another? The answer is marketing, but more specifically it is the power of branding. And branding is not just for products anymore! Just as Microsoft, Disney, and Starbucks use their brand to become first choice companies for consumers, defining your personal brand can make you the first choice candidate for employers.
Job Search Strategies
Make the Investment
Look at your personal brand as an investment because it has the potential to last longer than your own lifespan. While an internship might end or a project might get shut down, your personal brand will live on and (hopefully) retain and expand its value. People can begin to develop a connection with your brand and may follow it from project to project or company to company. Your personal brand is the foundation of your career. Once it has been created, you must maintain it. A strong foundation will allow you to build your resume exponentially. No matter what happens on the top, you will always have your foundation to fall back on. When launching new projects, your personal brand has the potential to guarantee you never have to start over again.
Gain Experience, Track Accomplishments
can keep a company productive and successful while maintaining order among employees. If your brand is built around this, all experience, education, and activities on your resume should back it up. Update your online profiles to emphasize the organizational skills you have obtained through various jobs, internships, college courses, and extracurricular activities. You should also develop a strategy for gaining experience in areas of your brand in which you are weak. If you are lacking experience, look into internships offered on or around campus. For more information on internships, please look to our earlier Get Experience section (pg. 18). Once you have obtained an internship or job in your field, push yourself to ask for new and challenging assignments that will build your brand’s emphasized quality.
Me, Inc. Promote Yourself
You can have an amazing brand, but if no one knows about it, you are not going to have much success with your career development. One of the oldest Before you seek out new work, take the time to promotional tools for job-seekers is the resume. This plan and focus on what you want your brand to includes not only your print resume (the one you stand for. Think about the key ideas you would bring to an interview or mail to employers), but also want people to associate with you. Do you your online resume. Look to the Resume section for have an exceptional amount of experience due more information on tailoring your resume. to internships and jobs in your field? Are you You should not stop with a resume! Begin proficient in multiple software programs? Do you developing two career portfolios—a print one have strong organizational or leadership skills? You and an online one. Let the world read all about can easily begin to build your brand around any of the benefits of your brand. Your portfolio these qualities. should include all important brand artifacts: For example, if you have great organizational skills, resume(s), mission statement, a detailed list of you can market yourself as a planner, a leader who accomplishments, samples of work, articles and working papers, speech E x p e rt A d v i c e transcripts, awards and honors, testimonials, and anything else “Regardless of age, regardless of position, regardless of the business we that shows why you would happen to be in, all of us need to understand the importance of branding. make an amazing employee! We are the CEOs of our own companies: Me, Inc.”
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~ Tom Peters, author of The Brand You: 50 Ways to Transform Yourself from an ‘Employee’ into a Brand That Shouts Distinction, Commitment, and Passion!
Keep Your Brand Updated
The Personal Touch
Job Search Strategies
Think of your personal brand as a new house. It Think about your personal brand each time you is great when you move in, but as time passes, its interact with someone. What impression are you decor becomes outdated, appliances break down, leaving them with? If you cannot (or do not want) and the paint begins to chip. The great news is that to spend time responding to tweets and emails, you still have a strong foundation to rebuild upon, you should make this part of your personal brand making your remodeling process much E x p e rt A d v i c e easier. Your personal brand needs this type of regular remodeling. Luckily, you already Building Your Brand’s Reputation have a steady foundation and all you need to do is update it! Branding is best defined as a promise. This promise includes a Your original content may be great, but confirmation of the value of the product, a guarantee that the it may seem stale and repetitive if you do product is better than all its competitors, and an understanding not add new elements. Remember: you that the product will be successful. To build your own unique cannot ride one idea forever, so you must brand, you must develop a complete and impressive image and keep adding new layers to show what your deliver results to match. brand represents. By continuing to upgrade your knowledge, so that people do not expect differently. If you you will be able to retain your expertise. If you only have the time to answer half of the emails were to stop learning and challenging yourself, you receive, mention this (with apologies) on your your brand would not hold the same weight it Contact page. If you make it clear that you intend used to. Write on topics within your field where to behave in a certain way people have little right to you have something new to say or some more be disappointed when you do so. value to add. This shows colleagues or potential employers that you are invested in expanding your Try to build relationships with as many people as possible. Get to know their real names and remember knowledge (and resume!). details about them. This is fun E x p e rt A d v i c e (and good manners), but it also leaves a strong impression Link Everything on the people with whom you If someone is fortunate enough to find your blog, web page, interact. These people may feel a LinkedIn page, etc., make it easy for them to get to all your connection to you and will talk relevant media places. Use quick links and easy to access icons about you to others, building to facilitate the effort. The more time they spend with you, the your reputation and your brand. better your chances of a positive outcome; the more chances Build name recognition with your branding efforts will pay off. powerful people within your field. ~Palmer These are the type of people who are already connected to those you want to reach. Comment on their writing, keep track of them on social media, help them when they ask for it. There is plenty to learn from these kind of people. They can also give you a killer testimonial when you launch a new product, tweet your links to thousands of followers, or even share great opportunities with you. Remember not to pester them, or ask for more favors than you give them. If you are useful and not overbearing, these people will remember you. View this as a long-term process (remember, your brand is an investment!). You cannot expect to become friends with these people in a week. It can take months, but hard workers tend to notice and appreciate others with the same work ethic!
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On the Web
It is essential for all job-seekers to understand and utilize the ever-evolving technologies. The internet has proven to be an extremely valuable tool, connecting you with businesses looking for employees and people looking to network. Your online presence can play a huge role in a potential employer’s perception of you, and it is in your best interest to avail yourself of these resources.
Not Just Social Networking: How to Utilize Social Sites for Professional Gain
Job Search Strategies
(re: www.gigaom.com/2007/07/24/12-ways-to-usefacebook-professionally/)
Social networking sites like Facebook provide an easy way for you to connect with people. While most consider these sites simply social, they also can be used as a professional platform. With a little work, you can transform your Facebook into an impressive and productive professional tool. Here are vital tips on how to treat Facebook—and other social networking sites—like your own personal networking channel: 1. Only Display On Your Profile What You Would Put On Your Desk In an office, a person’s desk can be a great way to understand the type of person they are. Their values, hobbies, and interests are on display for all to see, but you would be hard-pressed to find a professional desk with pictures or images containing activities inappropriate for work. When customizing your online profiles, ask yourself “Would I put this on my desk at work?” This rule does not apply exclusively to your pictures; think hard before joining groups, posting status updates or public messages to friends, and stating your political or religious affiliations. Remember, you do not have to connect your Facebook with your coworkers or with people in your field. If you want to keep Facebook purely social, make sure your profile can only be viewed by your friends. Check out privacy settings on every social networking site you use to see how to protect your personal information.
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2. Look for Coworkers, Current Connections, and Other Professionals in Your Field Let’s face it, nearly everyone uses Facebook. For this reason, Facebook can provide an easier way to connect with more individuals within your field.
Because of its relaxed setting, Facebook, and social networking sites like it, can keep you connected with important people without having to maintain extensive email conversations. You may also want to join groups that relate to your field, many groups provide threads or message boards to create and elongate discussions between members. Take a look at what your colleagues are talking about; everything from their opinions to the jargon they use can be valuable tools for you in the workplace. Examining the interests of those within your field can influence business opportunities and expand both your social and professional network. If you notice that someone within your field shares the same interests as you, think about extending your communication with them. You could be potentially meeting a future business partner! 3. Reinforce Your Brand! Many employers are “Googling” the names of prospective job-seekers and screening initial candidates. They are basing their decisions on both the number and quality of hits for each potential employee. Therefore, your brand needs to have a strong online presence! Your personal page, regardless of the website, is a great place to market yourself. While it is important to censor your page, it is also important to build on the information you post. Social networking sites allow you to share anything you want with potential employers and colleagues. When they access your public profile, you want them to develop a complete understanding of who you are as a person, and as an employee. This means choosing links and media in your news feed that add value to your brand. Keep your employment and educational information up-todate, identify your assets, and don't neglect your page.
Business Oriented Social Media Sites
It is critical to create and manage pages on networking sites that reflect your identity as a young professional. These sites can serve as online resumes, allowing potential employers or business partners to learn about you. Listed on the next page are some sites that can help you find jobs and connect with others in your field or industry. Some of these sites are strictly for professional networking, while others are used for more of a social purpose. Either way, these sites are great platforms for showcasing your knowledge, skills, and experience.
There is a reason LinkedIn’s slogan is “Relationships Matter.” The website’s main purpose is to allow users to maintain a list of contacts, or connections, of people they know and trust in business. Users can invite anyone (whether a user or not) to become a connection. LinkedIn can also be used by potential employees and employers to find jobs, people, and business opportunities. You can review the profiles of hiring managers and discover if you share any mutual contacts. In addition, you can follow different companies and get notifications about any new opportunities. LinkedIn is designed to look like a virtual resume, and includes sections for a professional photo, personal information, past and present experience, and education. See "Your LinkedIn Profile" on pg. 42 for help.
Twitter is a free social media site based on the creation and consumption of 140 character long posts called “tweets.” By following Twitter users, you can keep up-to-date on the opinions, stories, and news articles that interest you. Twitter can be used for networking, job seeking, connecting with businesses, receiving career advice, and discovering what is cutting edge in your field. Like Google+, Twitter is one-directional. The best way to utilize Twitter is to hit “reply” and become a part of the discussion. Follow people in your industry and join chats to engage even further. You can still enjoy Twitter without ever creating your own content by “retweeting” and replying to posts. These are crucial ways to build your brand.
Pinterest is used by people and companies, and allows users to post and arrange photos from web sites on “boards” that can be shared with other members. Create multiple boards and caption photos to reflect different interests. You can “like,” “re-pin,” and comment on others' individual pins or boards. Follow a particular board or all of the boards created by a single user. There are many ways to use Pinterest to help your career. Create a resume board with a copy of your resume and pictures related to your education and experiences. Develop portfolio boards with samples of previous projects. Pin photos from blog/news articles and other web pages where you learned something valuable. Pin personal, but appropriate, interests. Explore potential careers, employers, and industries and follow ones that are of interest. Remember, many career services offices are on Pinterest with great advice about job search strategies and more.
Instagram is an online mobile application that allows users to share photos and videos with their followers. Companies and individuals can use this app to promote themselves in creative ways. A great example of this is a graphic designer using the application in order to share his or her artwork with the public. Hashtags can also be used in the caption and comment section of Instagram. This feature enables people or companies to brand themselves with hashtags related to their work or target audience while also making it easier to spread their work and ideas around the social media world. The app provides users with the option of connecting their posts to other social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, allowing a larger number of people to see their content.
Your Blog
It may not be your first (or even second) priority, but it gives people a place to develop a stronger connection with you. Include a biographical blurb at the end of each post and put time and effort into your “About” page to paint a picture of your ideal personal brand. People will only remember a few things about you, so focus on telling the story that contributes the most to your brand. Use your personal story as the basis for your expertise. Try to be personally ubiquitous without over-stretching or over-exposing yourself. Wordpress and Posterous Spaces are free blog sites to check out.
Job Search Strategies
Your Personal Web Portfolio
Many job seekers are creating their own websites to communicate their qualifications to potential employers. These websites can showcase your resume, writing samples, biography, contact information, and much more! You can visit the computer labs in Phelps Hall for help in creating your own page. E x p e rt A d v i c e Content is King. It includes words, imagery, video, links; the full array of elements you use to make your point and presentation. Make it all count by editing carefully. Words: Be concise. Be readable (use a font and size that is legible). Have someone check your work. Imagery: Be concise. Use only your best work. Crop and edit pictures as if you were a photo editor. One great shot is better than 6 mediocre ones. Layout: Have a clear organized presentation and be as consistent as possible between your different locations ~Palmer
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Job Search Strategies
Your LinkedIn Profile LinkedIn launched in 2003 with the mission to connect the world’s professionals and college students. There are more than 300 million members on LinkedIn in over 200 countries and territories as of 2014. It is definitely the 800 pound gorilla and shouldn't be ignored as you search for and progress through a career. Many companies actually require that you apply for positions using your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn allows you to create a professional profile, which becomes your virtual resume and online portfolio to showcase your accomplishments. Your presence on LinkedIn allows you to connect with professionals, find opportunities, and be found by recruiters and hiring managers. A strong online presence can positively impact your career success. It is important to know where recruiters are looking for you on social media, and how you can appropriately incorporate social media into your internship and job search. LinkedIn is like
your professional version of Facebook, organizing your network of contacts which gives you an advantage during your education and career. We host quarterly workshops to help you utilize LinkedIn. You can also come to drop-in hours or schedule an appointment to have a LinkedIn profile critique. We have gathered our favorite LinkedIn tutorials and quick reference sheets for tips to get started.
LinkedIn Packet: Profile Checklist, Network, Find a Job, Alumni Tool career.sa.ucsb.edu/sites/career.sa.ucsb.edu/files/docs/ handouts/LinkedInPacket.pdf
LinkedIn for Students: More Quick Tip Sheets and Videos www.university.linkedin.com/linkedin-for-students.html
Profile Checklist: Career’s Top LinkedIn Tips
LinkedIn is your ultimate tool to build your personal brand, strengthen your online reputation, create a virtual portfolio, and connect with the world’s professionals. It also makes it easier to search for jobs, research companies, join professional groups, and explore universities.
❑❑ Create a profile that showcases your accomplishments, including samples of work. Have a good photo. Do not crop yourself out of a group. Keep the background simple. Crop ❑❑ close enough to see your face clearly. A professionally taken shot works best. Get a headshot at Career’s quarterly career fairs for your profile picture.
❑❑ Customize your LinkedIn public URL to share in your email signature and on your résumé. Build your network by connecting with coworkers, classmates, recent alumni, faculty, TAs, and ❑❑ your personal connections. ❑❑ Research top skills within industries and at specific companies. ❑❑ Explore graduate programs and see what their alumni currently do. ❑❑ Use the Alumni section to look at Gaucho career paths and get leads for internships and jobs. Join groups related to UCSB and your interests to connect with top people in industries and ❑❑ enhance your job search. 42
Take control in Privacy & Settings to manage how people find you, access to view your profile, ❑❑ and regulate your status updates and activity.
Job Search Tools In this section, we offer job search tools to help you
secure the job. Most employers require you to submit a resume and cover letter to apply for a position. We provide instructions for writing these documents, as well as several samples that you can use as templates for your letter may be the talk of the town, the job search process is not complete without a successful interview. Check out our tips for interviewing as well as sample interview questions and answers to help you practice. Finally, this
Job Search Strategies
own documents. Even though your resume and cover
chapter concludes with suggestions for negotiating the terms of your employment, in case you find yourself in the enviable position of securing your dream job.
Gaucho Paths to Success (GPS) Resume Writing Action Verbs/Skill Sets Resume Outline Example Job Opening Sample Resumes Curriculum Vitae Undergraduate CV Sample Cover Letters Made Easy Cover Letter Outline Sample Cover Letters Sample Reference Page Interviewing for the Job Behavior-Based Interviews Sample Interview Q & A Closing the Interview Interview Dress Negotiating the Offer Handling Job/Internship Offers
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Gaucho Paths to Success (GPS) UCSB Career Services is excited to launch an important initiative for students in regards to their career development. Gaucho Paths to Success (GPS) is a career education program offering a framework to effectively pursue various occupational areas, through optimizing academic, experiential, and career development preparation. With customized menus of services, programming, and resources, GPS helps you: Explore options and discover the best personal fit. Identify and secure relevant experience. Position yourself to achieve. There are eight GPS areas:
ARTS & MEDIA
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BUSINESS, FINANCE, & ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAREER & MAJOR EXPLORATION EDUCATION & HUMAN SERVICES ENGINEERING HEALTH PROFESSIONS LAW & PUBLIC SERVICE SCIENCE
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For more information, visit our website (career.sa.ucsb.edu/gps) or come to the Career Resource Room!
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We are hiring: www.continental-jobs.com
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Resume Writing
A resume is a concise method of introducing yourself to a potential employer. Rarely will it produce an immediate job offer. It is, however, commonly used by employers as a screening tool. The candidates with the best resumes (not necessarily the best candidates) will be given further consideration. Therefore, it is critically important to invest in its preparation. The following guidelines should help you put together a résumé.
Structure and Format
Resumes are organized in terms of category headings such as Objective, Education, Experience, Skills, Activities, Affiliations, Honors, and Interests. Many of these headings are optional. Choose categories that are appropriate for representing your background and qualifications. Important category headings include:
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1. Objective. This is the central element on
which the content of the resume is based. Because job titles vary from company to company, think of what you want to do (function), at what level (entry, trainee, middle management, etc.) and in what setting (financial institution, aerospace industry, etc.). A good objective is a bit paradoxical: it must be specific yet open-ended. If you are considering more than one occupational field, prepare a separate objective for each resume. E x p e rt A d v i c e
Resume Aesthetics The resume should be aesthetically appealing and easy to read. It should contain no typographical errors or misspelled words. Standard-sized (8½ x 11), high-quality bond paper is most widely accepted. The preferred length is one page, but there are always exceptions, particularly when applying for a specific job where you know more detailed information is desired.
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2.
Education. List education in reverse chronological order, beginning with your most recent education and working backwards. High school is not necessarily needed. A high GPA (e.g., 3.0 or above) and other academic achievements may be included. You may also choose to list courses relevant to your career, not overlooking courses that are universally transferable (e.g., writing skills, speaking ability, foreign languages, computer skills, etc.).
3.
Experience. The key to the experience section is to think broadly. This section will include not only paid employment, but also other types of experience where you used related skills. For instance, you may want to list that you were captain of the intramural volleyball team or that you volunteered as a trainer in the Special Olympics. The “skeleton” of the experience section includes the “position title,” “company” name (in some cases your “company” may be your fraternity or volunteer setting), city, state, and dates for each entry. This core information should be on your resume, regardless of the format you use for this section.
4.
Skills. You have acquired many skills through your education and life experiences that you can mention to prospective employers. You should demonstrate your skills under each position in a chronological format and list them in your skills categories in a functional format. If you are one of the many students who did not happen to take jobspecific courses at UCSB, you may not be aware of all your skills and may be unclear as to which ones relate to employment. A career counselor can help you figure this out.
Chronological Versus Functional Resumes
There are two common resume styles acceptable to most employing organizations: chronological and functional. For examples of these approaches, see the sample resumes starting on pg. 52. A chronological format lists past employment and experience in reverse chronological order by date, with the most recent experience listed first. If you include brief job descriptions, stress the connections between those jobs and the one for which you are applying. With a functional format, experience is summarized in skill categories rather than by chronological order. It consists of a selection from your total experience of only those skills which relate to the job you are seeking. A functional format will require an additional section entitled "Experience Summary," showing the reader where you have worked and in what positions.
ALUMNI ADVICE
Many employers appreciate diversity and believe that employing people with different backgrounds and interests will make a positive contribution to their organization. However, as you write your resume, you may still consider your own level of comfort in revealing personal information or how open the work environment is. Some considerations may include your involvement or affiliations with a particular political organization or religious group. If you identify as a member of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex (LGBTQI) community, but are not out or open about your orientation, be aware of how your identification as a LGBTQI person may be perceived in a more conservative work environment. See the Diversity Matters section on pg. 110 for more information.
"We write frankly and fearlessly but then we 'modify' before we print" - Mark Twain
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Put in the time and effort necessary to make your resume as polished and impressive as possible. Don’t complete it in just one sitting because it will be evident to employers. This is your career; take the time to nurture it. —Nick Morgan
Diversity Matters Resume Writing Caveat
Our Career Resource Room (CRR) offers daily resume and cover letter critiques during drop-in hours from 11am–4pm.
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Action Verbs/ Skill Sets Management Skills
•• administered •• analyzed •• assigned •• attained •• chaired
•• directed •• evaluated •• executed •• improved •• increased •• organized
•• oversaw •• planned •• prioritized •• produced •• recommended •• reviewed
•• scheduled •• strengthened •• supervised
•• formulated •• influenced •• interpreted •• lectured •• mediated •• moderated
•• motivated •• negotiated •• persuaded •• promoted •• publicized •• reconciled
•• recruited •• spoke •• translated •• wrote
•• compiled •• dispatched •• executed •• generated •• implemented
•• inspected •• monitored •• operated •• organized •• prepared •• processed
•• purchased •• recorded •• retrieved •• screened •• specified •• systematized
•• tabulated •• validated
•• diagnosed •• evaluated •• examined
•• extracted •• identified •• inspected •• interpreted
•• interviewed •• investigated •• organized •• reviewed
•• summarized •• surveyed •• systematized
•• computed •• designed •• devised
•• engineered •• fabricated •• maintained •• operated
•• overhauled •• programmed •• remodeled •• repair
•• solved •• trained •• upgraded
•• informed •• initiated •• instructed •• persuaded •• set goals
•• stimulated
•• communicated •• coordinated •• developed •• enabled
•• encouraged •• evaluated •• explained •• facilitated •• guided
•• appraised •• audited •• balanced
•• budgeted •• calculated •• computed •• developed
•• forecasted •• managed •• marketed •• planned
•• projected •• researched
•• founded •• illustrated •• instituted •• integrated •• introduced
•• invented •• originated •• performed •• planned •• revitalized
•• shaped
•• developed •• directed •• established •• fashioned
•• diagnosed •• educated •• expedited •• facilitated
•• familiarized •• guided •• referred •• rehabilitated
•• represented
•• coached •• counseled •• demonstrated
•• contracted •• consolidated •• coordinated •• delegated •• developed
Communication Skills •• addressed •• arbitrated •• arranged •• authored •• corresponded
•• developed •• directed •• drafted •• edited •• enlisted
Clerical/Detailed Skills •• approved •• arranged •• catalogued •• classified •• collected
Research Skills
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•• clarified •• collected •• critiqued
Technical Skills •• assembled •• built •• calculated
Teaching Skills •• adapted •• advised •• clarified •• coached
Financial Skills •• administered •• allocated •• analyzed
Creative Skills •• acted •• conceptualized •• created •• designed
Helping Skills
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•• assessed •• assisted •• clarified
Source: Boston College Career Center, 2013.
Resume Outline Headers in BOLD
Your Name (choose a larger font size) Your address, city, state, zip Phone number and email (use professional email address) LinkedIn Address (optional)
Objective
Seeking (insert position here) at (insert company or industry) utilizing (insert skills or experience) and (insert skills or experience).
Highest degree first, institution, major, class standing or date of graduation, GPA if 3.0 or above University of California, Santa Barbara
States type of position, job title, and industry
Education
Expected Graduation mm/yy B.A. or B.S. Major, Concentration, Minor GPA (if above 3.0) Honor: (optional) Relevant Coursework: (optional) Choose 4-6 upper division courses that relate to position for which you are applying; use titles of courses, not numbers
Experience Experience can be paid or unpaid. You can divide experience into two or more categories to put the most relevant first, while still listing in reverse chronological order. Examples: Relevant Experience and Additional Experience or Sales Experience and Leadership Experiences.
Leadership/Memberships/Student Involvement/Other
Member, Name of Group, City, State • Include bullet point of two if you did something notable or developed skills
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Position, Company/Employer, City, State mm/yy-mm/yy • Add bullet points that relate to accomplishments and skills related to the job for which you are applying, not simply duties of position. • Bullet points do not need to be full sentences but should have enough detail to get the point across; include numbers, percentages, and dollar amounts where applicable. • Start bullet point with an action verb using the proper tense. • Put most important bullet point as it relates to the position you are applying for at the top of the list. mm/yy-mm/yy
Skills Computer: List software programs/social media applications and state level of proficiency. Languages: List language and level achieved (conversational, fluent, native) Certifications: (optional)
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Resume Design Tips yy Leave at least ½ inch margin throughout yy Avoid a text heavy document
yy Use Times New Roman, Arial, Helvetica or other common font styles throughout
yy Put headings in CAPS/BOLD to help identify the sections
yy Spell check and proof your document before sending to anyone!
yy Use bullets instead of paragraphs to outline key points
yy Use phrases, not complete sentences. (“Supervised five employees vs. “I supervised…”)
yy Point size should ideally be between 10–12 and consistent throughout, with the exception of headings and your name which need to stand out
yy Use past tense for experiences completed and present for those still current yy Don't use personal pronouns
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Example Job Opening It is important to tailor your resume and cover letter for the specific job you are applying for. Employers want to see that you have skills that fulfill their job requirements and that you have experience that will make you an asset to their team. Adapting your resume for a specific job opening is also beneficial when you have lots of experience and little room on your resume and cover letter. Focus on your experience and skills most applicable to the job you are applying for to highlight your qualifications. See this example job opening and supplementary resume and cover letter to get an idea of how to apply for a specific position.
d e t n a W Help
e s with th ural Sport r for Intram o at in n rd io n Coo ecreat Recreatioent of Student R Departm Racine, Wisconsin h mpus, wit Location: ram on ca e: ural prog d u am cl tr in in es sive ts. biliti Responsi e the comprehensports tournamen nd Manag managingin on weeke is as n h p s erie ce in em strate expmming, strong skilln to detail n o em d uld ntio gra idates shog recreational pro rvice, strong atte nment; strong d an C viro er se atin or coordinication and customd work in team en commun to collaborate an elopment. ty ev and abili ent to student d ement orts Manag commitm logy or Sp io es in K ree in elor’s deg Bach rred. prefe
It's a good idea to keep a copy of the job listing or want ad handy throughout the process
Pat Gaucho 1234 Career St. Isla Vista, California 93117
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April 22, 20xx
Do the research and find out who the hiring manager is
Mr. Tom Pettison Director, Student Recreation and Wellness Center University of Wisconsin, Racine Racine, WI 54901 Dear Mr. Pettison:
805-893-0000 pat.gaucho@umail.ucsb.edu
Describe the significance of your experience to the position you are applying for
Your job posting for a Recreation Coordinator for Intramural Sports immediately caught my attention as I was reviewing your university’s website. Wisconsin is my home, and I hope to secure a job in the area so that I can be near my family once again. I believe I have both the requisite skills for the position and the motivation to contribute positively to your organization. I am close to finishing my Bachelor’s degree in Economics, with a minor in Sport Management at the University of California, Santa Barbara. While my studies have provided me with an excellent theoretical foundation in sport management, it is through my internship at UCSB’s Intramural Sports that I have honed my skills to fulfill your posted position. Under the tutelage of Marcus McCullen, I have become thoroughly versed in managing all aspects of intramural tournaments, and smoothing the sometimes bumpy turf that can exist between students and management. My interpersonal skills have served me well in finding innovative approaches to staffing tournaments and to successfully acquiring corporate donors and sponsors. In my second year of internship, I was fortunate to be entrusted by Mr. McCullen with the recruiting and training of tournament student staff. I believe these experiences have prepared me well for taking full responsibility for your Recreation Coordination position. It is my hope that we will be able to meet so that I may further present my qualifications to you in person. As I know you are very busy, I will contact you during the week of May 9 to see how my application is progressing. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Pat Gaucho
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For more on cover letters, go to pg. 78
If some of your experience comes from UCSB, show the UCSB abbreviation in the Education section, establishing its meaning for later use
Note how the Objective strongly matches the original job description
Pat Gaucho 1234 Career St. Isla Vista, California 93117
805-893-0000 pat.gaucho@umail.ucsb.edu
OBJECTIVE: A position that uses my abilities to coordinate recreational programming, to collaborate with colleagues, and provide strong customer service. EDUCATION: University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Expected graduation date: June 20xx B.A., Economics, minor in Exercise and Sport Studies, emphasis in Sport Management Minor GPA: 3.87 Cumulative GPA: 3.62 Within any category Relevant Course Work: (e.g. Experience) show Sport Management Applied Kinesiology most recent activity first, Sport Administration Sport and Exercise Psychology
and then go back in time
Supervisor, Woodstock’s Pizza, UCSB • Promoted to supervisor after six months stint as counter-person • Manage frequent changes to staff scheduling • Provide input for employee evaluations • Ensure adherence to health standards and OSHA policies
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EXPERIENCE: Intern, UCSB Recreation Center, Santa Barbara, CA April 20xx - Present • Assist in the planning and organization of 10 intramural soccer teams • Coordinate the concurrent use of 5 soccer fields for a 16-team tournament • Schedule referee staff for annual 3-weekend tournament • Recruit and train student tournament staff • Successfully mediate disagreements between student teams and management • Negotiate for intramural Greek tournament in exchange for Greek sponsorship and staffing of Tiny Tots Tournament, resulting in cost reduction of $3500 March 20xx - Present
Assistant Coach, AYSO, Racine, WI April-September 20xx & 20xx • Participated in coordination of regional tournaments. • Initiated and implemented phone tree to improve communication among players, players’ families, and coaching staff.
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Limited Experience
List skills most relevant to the job you are applying for by reading the job description and make it unique for each resume
Key Features:
• Two experience areas
Amy Lee San Miguel Hall Room 7654 Santa Barbara, CA 93117 (805) 555-1234 Amy.lee@college.edu
OBJECTIVE Summer hostess at Bambino’s Ristorante
SUMMARY OF SKILLS • Leadership: Voted into leadership position by peers and entrusted to make decisions for residence hall floor • Language: Bilingual Cantonese, spoken and written • Communication: Training and tutoring experience in food service and educational settings. Consistently received positive evaluations from supervisors • Technical: Proficient in Microsoft Office Word, PowerPoint, and Excel EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Expected June 20xx Bachelor of Arts, English Incorporate any GPA: 3.5 residence hall or Deans List: Fall 20xx, Winter 20xx, Spring 20xx
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customer/food service experience
CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPERIENCE Trainee Supervisor and Cashier Sept 20xx - Sept 20xx Jamba Juice Fog City, CA • Interfaced with customers, in person and on the phone, and answered questions regarding various products • Ensured guest satisfaction through problem solving and excellent customer service • Supervised and trained new employees on cashier and customer service protocol, safety standards, and company mission • Promoted from cashier to trainee supervisor within 3 months of employment • Demonstrated attention to detail, professionalism, and efficient organization LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Community Service Chair Sept 20xx - Present San Miguel Residence Hall, UCSB Santa Barbara, CA • Attended weekly Executive Board meetings • Organized quarterly community outreach for residents • Collaborated with fellow Community Service Chairs to put on hall events • Met monthly with hall council to vote on allocation of hall funds, up to $2,000 Volunteer Tutor Sept 20xx - Dec 20xx Fog City Middle School Fog City, CA • Provided one-on-one and small group tutoring to eighth grade students in Math, English and Biology • Developed original study tips guide for students which increased test scores by 8% in three months
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Key Features:
• A qualifications summary • Professional affiliations
Course Projects
Make sure to use a professional looking email address
LINCOLN PALMER Goleta, CA • 805-555-1234 • linpal@engineering.college.edu Objective To obtain a mechanical engineer position utilizing design and project management experience • • • • •
Summary of Qualifications 3 years of project work in an academic setting involving conceptual and detailed design, component fabrication and testing and data analysis Developed skills including: stress analysis, measurement, industrial costs and controls, statistics Software competencies: SolidWorks, Pro/Engineer, AutoCAD, ABAQUS, MasterCAM, Matlab Hardware familiarity: Networking - LANS; PC - assembly and maintenance Work experience involving customer service, sales, and problem-solving
List in order of importance for future job
Education B.S., Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara Expected Jun. 20xx Emphasis on Mechanics, Materials and Structures GPA: 3.0; Dean’s List - 2 quarters Use course projects Relevant Coursework to demonstrate • Advanced Strength of Materials • Finite Element Analysis experience • Mechanics, Materials and Structures Lab • Structural Analysis • Elasticity • Materials in Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering Experience Senior Project: SAE Aero Design Competition, UC Santa Barbara Sept. 20xx - Jun. 20xx • Used Solidworks to design a radio-controlled aircraft that could take off and land while maximizing payload • Analyzed aircraft design using ANSYS • Collaborated with 4 classmates to fabricate and test the aircraft • Focused on design, fabrication and testing of graphite-epoxy composite wing structure • Became familiar with tool design for composite lay-up and curing in autoclave Mechanical Engineering Intern, Walt Disney World, Lake Buena Vista, FL Jun. - Aug. 20xx • Met twice weekly for mentoring and professional feedback with Senior VP of Engineering Services • Completed customer service and business classes through Disney College Program • Participated actively on 8-member task team charged with completion of reliability survey of 8 park attractions • Operated attractions, served guests, and collected feedback about guest experiences Project: Engineers Without Borders, UC Santa Barbara • Installed slow sand filter in Araypallpa, Peru
Jul. 20xx
Junior Project: Improved Electric Countertop Grill, UC Santa Barbara Mar. - Jun. 20xx • Led a 3-person team in improving popular consumer product, The George Foreman Grill, by adding sliding hinge, on/off switch and dribble cup attachment • Presented final design including estimates of production costs to 35-member class for evaluation • • •
Professional Affiliations American Society of Mechanical Engineers Society of Automotive Engineers Engineers Without Borders
Sept. 20xx - Present Mar. 20xx - Present Oct. 20xx - Present
Use professional affiliations to demonstrate your commitment to the field
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Athlete
Key Features:
• Athletic experience • Course projects
BEAU SAMUELS
(805) 555-1234 • beausamuels@umail.edu OBJECTIVE Enthusiastic and creative college athlete seeks a full-time marketing/social media position in a company that appreciates strong time management, communication, and teamwork skills
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS • • • • Use course projects if lacking work experience
Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Publisher), Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Basic C++ and HTML Demonstrated capability to effectively work on teams and motivate others Proven ability to efficiently prioritize and manage projects and schedules Fluent in Spanish
Summary of Qualifications highlights special skills relevant to the job you are applying for
EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Bachelor of Arts, Communication
Santa Barbara, CA Expected: Dec 20xx
Relevant Coursework: Marketing Communication; Electronic Media Policy and Regulation; Interactive Media; Advertising Literacy Honors: Mountain Pacific Sports Federation All-Academic Honors for three consecutive years
RELATED COURSE PROJECTS
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Senior Capstone Project, UCSB Mar - Jun 20xx • Developed an effective business proposal for a fictitious advertising firm pertaining to the incorporation of social media to generate profit • Conducted research and investigated the effects of using social media and e-commerce to advertise products • Collaborated with 4 fellow classmates to brainstorm ideas, research topic areas and create a visual presentation to both faculty and other students Marketing Project, UCSB Marketing Communication Course Sept - Dec 20xx • Proposed marketing and advertising campaign for student organizations • Utilized Adobe InDesign to create flyers and brochures in both English and Spanish • Collected data on the effectiveness of the marketing campaign • Created student organizations website using HTML
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Athletic experience
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Team Member, UCSB Men’s Water Polo Aug 20xx - Jun 20xx • Competed at Division I level in one of the nation’s most recognized conferences • Practiced up to 20 hours per week and travelled while maintaining full course load and competitive GPA, and meeting other deadlines • Assisted coaches and team captain in strategy discussions and team building exercises • Served as a mentor to potential recruits and motivated current freshman class • Communicated with fellow teammates and coaches to improve team performance • Awarded Mountain Pacific Sports Federation All-Academic Honors (Jan 20xx, Jan. 20xx and Jan. 20xx) for maintaining a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average and competing in at least 50% of games
Key Features:
• Professional summary • LinkedIn
Student Involvement Donna Quintero
9876 Palomino Drive 805.555.1234 Santa Ana, CA 90210 dquintero@umail.edu Complete profile available at: http://www.linkedin.com/dquintero
Use experience from professional organizations to demonstrate qualifications
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY: Four years of experience working within both national and campus organizations. Motivated, determined, and excited to pursue a career in higher education student affairs. Dedicated to creating an environment of social justice, critical thinking, diversity, personal development, competency, and communication. EDUCATION: B.A., University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Major: Chicana/o Studies. Minor: Education & Applied Psychology. GPA: 3.82
June 20xx
HIGHLIGHTS OF RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Student President Advisory Board Member August 20xx – Present The National Society of Leadership and Success • Engage in conference calls on significant topics in higher education and leadership. • Participate via email communication for supplemental ideas and suggestions to continually improve the organization.
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Staff Assistant for Fraternity & Sorority Life August 20xx – Present UCSB Student Affairs • Assist the Greek Life staff in planning, implementing and evaluating programs and activities. • Co-organize and facilitate officer training and transition retreats. • Contribute to data collection and preparation of reports related to fraternity and sorority life. • Create and facilitate outcomes-based workshops on topics including leadership development, hazing, public relations, risk management, and goal setting.
Highlight specific experiences
Undergraduate Fellow June 20xx – June 20xx NASPA Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education • Developed writing, research, and presentation skills through presentations on critical issues faced by the division. • Expanded cultural competency skills by coordinating programs that serve and create a positive diverse campus climate. Executive Officer June 20xx – June 20xx The National Leadership and Honors Association • Pioneered resurgence of campus organization to better serve all students. • Aided in discovery and implementation of members’ goals to maximize their personal growth. • Coordinated open forum for success-oriented individuals to network. Intern June 20xx – June 20xx UCSB First Year Programs • Coordinated numerous “Frosh Success Workshops” to inform students of available resources and activities. • Researched, redesigned, and updated curriculum for the University Success Course. • Arranged selection of 8-12 course facilitators per quarter.
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Accounting
Key Features:
• Accounting experience • Military experience
ZACHARY FISCHER z.fischer@umail.edu
●
(805) 555-1234
OBJECTIVE To secure a summer Audit Internship at Myers & Wells EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Expected Graduation Date: June 20xx Bachelor of Arts in Economics & Accounting CPA Eligibility: August 20xx Accounting GPA: 3.85 Cumulative GPA: 3.6 Dean’s Honor List: Spring 20xx, Fall 20xx, Winter 20xx, Winter 20xx, and Spring 20xx Relevant Coursework: Intermediate Accounting, Advanced Accounting, Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, and Accounting Information Systems
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RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Financial Intern ZCS Financial Advisors, Goleta, CA July 20xx – Present • Conduct research for prospective companies and set appointments to discuss various stock option plans • Build and maintain client database with a team of eight associates and two interns • Calculate stop prices for stocks at various levels of risk • Observe financial planning and advising under a regionally top-ranking financial broker Tutor • • •
Campus Learning Assistance Service, UCSB September 20xx – June 20xx Tutored fellow students in accounting and economic courses including intermediate financial accounting, managerial accounting, and intermediate macroeconomics Developed communication skills explaining accounting concepts to a group of 30 students Reinforced foundation of accounting knowledge through tutoring process
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Team Leader United States Army National Guard, San Diego, CA May 20xx – Present • Served two combat tours of active duty service overseas with three employees under management • Provided training and evaluations for employees as well as feedback regarding performance • Managed and solely responsible for over $1,000,000 worth of United States Army equipment • Coordinated actions and tasks with first- and second-line supervisors • Possess current Department of Defense Secret Clearance CAMPUS & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Member Accounting Association, UCSB September 20xx – Present Philanthropy Chair Alpha Kappa Omega (Business Fraternity), UCSB September 20xx – Present Volunteer Tutor CARE Foundation, Goleta, CA September 20xx – June 20xx SKILLS Computer: Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint and Adobe Photoshop Languages: Intermediate fluency in Spanish; Conversational French
Check out more accounting resume examples at Economics' Career Connection: www.econ.ucsb.edu/undergraduate/career_connection.html
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Key Features:
• Actuary exam results • Use of industry lingo
Actuary
Jessica Lopez 805.555.1234 ● jlopez@umail.edu EDUCATION University of California at Santa Barbara (UCSB) Expected Graduation Date: June 20xx Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science GPA: 3.5 Actuarial Qualifications: • Exam P/1 (1st Attempt – Grade: 9 - Jul 20xx) Focused experience • Exam FM/2 (1st Attempt – Grade: 9 – Aug 20xx) eliminates the need for • Exam MFE/3F (1st Attempt – Scheduled for Nov 20xx) an Objective section • Exam MLC Candidate (1st Attempt – May 20xx) Software: Excel, Access, MATLAB, R, JAVA, Word, PowerPoint, RPA
EXPERIENCE Junior Analyst Brands Management, Los Angeles, CA June 20xx - Present • Provide analytical support for firm specializing in acquiring and managing the operations of boutique hotel properties located on the east coast • Optimize internet revenue using competitive set analysis, measuring ROI on e-commerce expenditures, and reacting to marketing trends • Assist in budget and revenue forecasting using financial models and historical analysis
Fund Supervisor UCSB Annual Fund, Santa Barbara, CA September 20xx – June 20xx • Promoted to supervisor after bringing in over $100,000 as a telefunder and ranking 12th in total money raised out of several hundred student callers • Provided caller evaluations, mentoring, as well as incentives to improve caller performance Financial Advisor Intern Merrill Lynch, Los Angeles, CA • Prepared quarterly client portfolio evaluations reports • Analyzed portfolios and prepared recommendations • Screened, analyzed, and conducted due diligence on mutual funds
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Summer Financial Analyst Standard Diagnostics, Los Angeles, CA June 20xx - August 20xx • Provided business’s finance sector with analytical support in budgeting and labor utilization • Conducted various financial reports and analysis through compiling and utilizing raw data within large multi-system environment • Utilized Access queries and Excel pivot tables to interpret large quantities of labor data resulting in more efficient approach to analyzing labor costs
June 20xx – September 20xx
Intern Rabobank, Santa Barbara, CA January 20xx – June 20xx • Calculated income, analyzed tax and bank statements, performed data entry, validation and analysis • Applied methods of financial analysis while complying with confidentiality requirements
LEADERSHIP Active Member Society of Actuaries Finance Chair UCSB Actuary Club
January 20xx - Present September 20xx – June 20xx
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Finance
Key Features:
• Leadership experience • Role progression within sorority
Kenisha Simmons
(805) 555-1234 I ksimmons@umail.edu OBJECTIVE To obtain an entry level position in financial services EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Bachelor of Arts, Economics Expected Graduation: June 20xx Relevant Courses: Statistics with Economics & Business Applications, Financial Management, Corporate Finance, International Finance, Labor Economics, Public Finance
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PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Finance Intern I Intranex I Goleta, CA Jun 20xx - Sep 20xx • Assisted with creation and distribution of monthly and quarterly forecasting reports • Ensured that all transactions were classified correctly and balanced at all times • Maintained thorough understanding of company’s economic model to assist in data analysis, reporting inquiries, and accounting transactions • Updated financial planning models in Excel Global Economics Intern I Integrity Inc. I San Francisco, CA May 20xx - Aug 20xx • Produced weekly global business and economics news brief, highlighting key events • Drafted correspondence and managed logistics for program events and activities • Wrote analytical pieces for publication in company’s blog • Researched and collected data from macroeconomic online databases; performed literature reviews and research utilizing scholarly databases LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Kappa Sigma Rho I UCSB Finance Chair Sep 20xx - Present • Manage budget over $5,000, oversee all spending, and record all transactions Webmaster Sep 20xx - Present • Create website for sorority; update site with new material and information for members Event Chair Sep 20xx - Jun 20xx • Collaborated with group of 10 to coordinate event for 200+ participants, fundraising over $2,000 Circle of Change Leadership Conference I Irvine, CA Nov 20xx Recipient of Scholarship/Participant • Selected as one of 10 students from UCSB to attend annual conference • Collaborated with students from other universities to generate initiatives on how to empower students to make significant change within local community • Built strong professional network and improved communication skills COMPUTER SKILLS Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, HTML, C++, and Adobe InDesign Familiarity with PC/Mac platforms
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Key Features:
• Sales experience • Leadership experience
Sales & Entrepreneurship Anthony Finn
(805) 555-1234 ♦ afinny@ad.com ♦ linkedin.com/in/afinn
OBJECTIVE Obtain entry-level sales position utilizing communication and interpersonal skills. EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Bachelor of Arts, English
12/20xx GPA 3.4
EXPERIENCE Sales Representative – University Directories, Los Angeles, CA 06/xx-09/xx • Received comprehensive training in sales and advertising. • Prepared and delivered daily presentations to local business owners. Include numbers • Organized and implemented personal business plan. and percentages • Achieved “Top Salesperson” for Los Angeles area by reaching 121% of quota. when describing accomplishments • Created advertisements using Adobe Photoshop.
Vice President – UCSB Entrepreneurs Association, Santa Barbara, CA 06/xx-09/xx • Coached members on innovative business ideas and prepare for New Venture Competition. • Coordinated social gatherings for members to seek business advice from top executives. • Developed effective teamwork skills through weekly projects with Executive Board. Chairperson – UCSB Latino Business Association, Santa Barbara, CA • Scheduled speakers and companies for tours and conferences. • Provided leadership and motivation to 25 members. • Oversaw club activities such as finance, marketing, and alumni relations.
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Telemarketer – Retail Connections, Long Beach, CA 09/xx-06/xx • Read prepared sales script over phone and established rapport with potential customers. • Earned 3rd place in corporate sponsorships acquired exceeding 30% of initial goal set. • Resolved customer complaints within a demanding, high-volume setting.
09/xx-06/xx
SKILLS Hardware familiarity: PCs and Macintosh Application competencies: Photoshop, InDesign, PageMaker, MS Excel. Languages: Read and speak Spanish Remember – it's what did I do, with whom did I do it, and what were the results
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Science & Lab
Skills and Education on top and Experience on the bottom
Key Features:
• Relevant class projects
Maria S. Chavez
2029 Pardall Way, Goleta, CA 93117 ● (805) 555-1234 ● mchavez@gmail.com
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a Laboratory Technician position with Novozymes utilizing my 2 years of lab experience.
EDUCATION 06/20xx
University of California, Santa Barbara Bachelor of Science: Biology GPA: 3.0
RELEVANT COURSEWORK
•• Neurobiology & Developmental Neurobiology •• Biochemistry & Lab •• Physical Biochemistry •• Biophysical Chemistry
•• Bacterial & Eukaryotic Genetics •• Cell Biology •• Critical Thinking & Formal Logic •• Writing for Science & Technology
SPECIAL SKILLS •• Working in a Sterile Environment •• SDS-PAGE •• Western Blotting & Analysis •• Immunofluorescent Staining •• Polyacrylamide Gel Casting
Focus on coursework, lab techniques, and equipment proficiencies that are relevant to the position
•• Cell Lysis •• Bioinformatics •• Fluorescent Microscopy & In-Vivo Imaging •• Antibody Stock Preparation •• Data Analysis
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LAB EXPERIENCE
Include relevant class labs, projects, research, volunteer and paid experiences, even leadership positions in student orgs and clubs. Paid experience is not necessarily the most relevant
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Undergrad Research Assistant - Biology Department, UC Santa Barbara 01/20xx - Present •• Assist professor and graduate students in studying the molecular regulatory mechanisms of mammalian primary cilia, defects of which are implicated in various forms of cancer and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) •• Perform cell lysis, Western blotting and analyses, immunofluorescent staining of samples, gel casting, and maintain antibody stocks •• Present a poster of data and analyses of research project to peers participating in various interdisciplinary research projects Instrumental Analysis Class Project - UC Santa Barbara 09/20xx - 12/20xx • Worked as part of a team of 2 to conduct experiments using HPLC techniques to successfully identify, quantify and purify mixtures’ individual components • Collected, analyzed, and interpreted lab results and data to compose formal lab reports • Developed precise lab work habits and methodologies for operation of analytical instrumentation
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE Volunteer - American Heart Association, Santa Barbara, CA 09/20xx - 12/20xx • Recruited local companies from health-related fields for 2 fundraising events that raised total of $10,000 • Assisted with weekly fundraiser mailings and communicated with donors via phone and email • Worked with team of 5 volunteers to set-up and break down 10 weekend events that educated community members about health and wellness
ACTIVITIES Member, Society of Undergraduate Biologists- UC Santa Barbara Member, SACNAS - UC Santa Barbara (Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science)
09/20xx - Present 03/20xx - Present
This is a hybrid and not a true functional resume. In a true functional resume, you would include the skills you used in your out-of-class experiences in the Special Skills section and just list the position title, company name, city, state, and dates for your experience
Health Professions
Key Features:
• Relevant volunteer experience
Mark Rodenas
mrodenas@gmail.com â—? 805 444-9988
OBJECTIVE To obtain a volunteer position with Doctors Without Walls utilizing my excellent communication skills with patients and health professionals and my passion for the healthcare field.
EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara Bachelor of Science: Cell and Developmental Biology / GPA: 3.2
Expected Graduation: June 20xx
RELEVANT COURSEWORK ss Organic Chemistry ss Biochemistry ss Developmental Biology
ss Immunology ss Cell Biology ss Underserved Medicine
HEALTHCARE EXPERIENCE
Pediatric Volunteer - Cottage Hospital, Santa Barbara, CA March 20xx - August 20xx ss Assisted 10-15 healthcare professionals and 50+ patients daily in the Pediatric ward. ss Provided administrative support by checking in and discharging patients and maintaining accurate patient records. ss Communicated with patients and families throughout the day to ensure comfort and ease during visits.
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
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Medical Volunteer - Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinic, Isla Vista, CA December 20xx - April 20xx ss Provided medical assistant services to benefit a non-profit medical clinic in the community. ss Assisted doctors, nurses, and other members of the health team daily in providing services to low-income children and families. ss Took patient vitals, recorded symptoms, and completed all necessary paperwork for each patient.
Undergraduate Researcher - Biology Department, UC Santa Barbara September 20xx - Present ss Conduct research on contact-dependent growth inhibition systems in bacteria as part of a team of 5. ss Perform culture and mating techniques, transduction, tranformation, transposon mutagensis, electroporation, DNA purification, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and primer design among other procedures. ss Analyze and interpret experimental results daily using specialized lab techniques.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Mentor/Tutor - Isla Vista Teen Center, Isla Vista, CA November 20xx - June 20xx ss Mentored and tutored 10 high school students in academic subjects and college preparation in a small group setting. ss Facilitated and stimulated one-on-one discussions about preparation for college, family communication, and peer pressure to help students feel more comfortable opening up and sharing challenges.
RELEVANT SKILLS ss CPR and AED certification for adults, children, and infants ss Full fluency in Spanish; reading, writing, speaking ss Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint
ACTIVITIES Member, Los Curanderos Pre-Health Organization - UC Santa Barbara
September 20xx - Present
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Environmental Studies
Key Features:
• Industry-specific language • Transferable academic experience
Greta Gaucho
Santa Barbara, CA | (555) 555-5555 | ggaucho@gmail.com | linkedin.com/in/ggaucho OBJECTIVE To obtain the Entry to Mid-level Environmental Planner position at Amec Foster Wheeler, utilizing my experience managing CEQA and NEPA-compliant projects and my technical writing skills EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies GPA: 3.3 | Major GPA: 3.5
Expected Graduation: June 2017
RELEVANT COURSEWORK Advanced Environmental Planning Politics of the Environment Technical Writing
Business and Environment Natural Resource Economics ● Environmental Ecology ● ●
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RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Environmental Regulatory Compliance Intern June 2016 – September 2016 Venoco, Inc. | Carpinteria, CA Assisted Environmental Coordinator in drafting Environmental Impact Reports in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for a variety of projects, including the decommissioning of aging and unused oil pipelines and storage facilities Managed multiple projects at once and worked closely with an interdisciplinary team to ensure all facets of each project were in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations Ensured adherence of projects to the scopes, schedules, and budgets established by Venoco, Inc. Helped shepherd 2 project applications to completion after conditional approval of proposed plans by the relevant local, state, and federal regulatory boards Technical Writing & Research Assistant October 2014 – June 2015 Alagona Lab, UCSB | Santa Barbara, CA Assisted in creating a database of source material and writing the bibliography for a full-length publication on the history of wildlife in American cities Edited several chapters of the manuscript concerning public policy surrounding urban wildlife Assisted in scholarly research on the impact of domestic structures on rodent populations Field Restoration Intern June 2013 – September 2013 UCSB Environmental Studies Internship Program | Storke Ranch, Goleta, CA Aided in the restoration of a sensitive vernal pool ecosystem, removing invasive species through weeding and solarization techniques, and replanting native species Instructed and supervised volunteer groups of 15 or more college students on a weekly basis in native and invasive plant identification, weeding and planting techniques, and maneuvering through sensitive habitats SPECIAL SKILLS Computer: Proficient in MS Excel (data input & analysis), GraphPad Prism, and EndNote; familiar with ArcGIS Language: Fluent in Spanish
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Key Features:
• Directly related Experience • Position Specific & Industry specific objective
Art History
Alice B. Cruzen
(805) 555-1234 abcruzen@yahoo.com
Objective To acquire the position of Museum Assistant at the Long Beach Museum of Art where I can apply my experience working with non-profit organizations and museums.
Education University of California, Santa Barbara B.A., in Art History, Expected graduation: June 20xx Significant coursework: ● Museology ● Survey of Modern to Contemporary Art ● Survey of Architecture and Planning ● African, Oceana, and North American Art
Relevant Experience
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Art, Design and Architecture Museum UC Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA University Museum Fine Art Curatorial Intern September 20xx-present ●● Educated students, faculty members and alumni on the current exhibitions and facilitated their understanding and appreciation for artwork as a docent tour guide. ●● Supported exhibitions and programs by attending, planning, and advertising for several opening receptions and events. ●● Traveled to Solvang, CA on a weekly basis to catalogue Channing Peake’s artwork for an upcoming exhibition and created a database for the exhibition catalogue. ●● Tracked and met with collectors in order to add to the artwork database. ●● Attended special seminars with art curators, collectors, and artists to benefit from their experiences and gain knowledge about the art world. ●● Collaborated with interns from different departments to plan seminar topics for the following school year. Arts Fund Santa Barbara, CA Gallery Intern September 20xx-Present ●● Assisted and organized 5 gallery opening receptions. ●● Ensured that banks deposits were delivered on time. ●● Updated the Facebook page as part of the administrative and clerical aspects of the job. ●● Aided in the proper installation, packaging, and shipping of artwork to ensure no damages occurred. ●● Maintained overall gallery appearance. ●● Maintained and updated the DonorSnap database with artist, donor, and client information to ensure proper contact information was available at all times. ●● Accurately answered general inquiries about the programs available, the gallery and the work exhibited both through the telephone and in person. ●● Provided assistance in planning and executing successful fundraisers and gallery opening receptions. ●● Interacted with guest at events to facilitate the public’s appreciation of the artwork.
Skills ●● ●● ●● ●● ●●
Bilingual English and Spanish Experience with DonorSnap Proficient in MS Office Suite including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point Knowledgeable in Loss Prevention techniques Some management experience
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Performing Arts & Arts Management
Key Features:
• Advanced degree • Arts management
Bianca Cruz (805) 555-1234 bcruz@umail.edu
Job Search Tools
Objective Artistic Director for the Ensemble Theater Project Education UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, Masters of Fine Arts Emphasis – Directing and Theater Management
20xx
Arts Management Institute – Screen Actors Guild
20xx
University of California, Santa Barbara, Bachelor of Arts Major – Dramatic Arts, Minor – Film & Media Studies
20xx
Performance Theater Experience Director, Collaborator & Performer – Santa Barbara Teen Theater Project Chicago, The Musical – UCSB Dramatic Arts – Roxy Hart Much Ado About Nothing – Ventura Community Theater – Hero The Scarlett Letter – Ensemble Theater Project – Hester Prynne Los Posadas, A Christmas Tale – Santa Barbara Presidio – Angel You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown – SB Summer Theater – Snoopy
20xx 20xx 20xx 20xx 20xx 20xx
Technical & Theater Management Experience Ventura Community Theater • Production Assistant – Fiddler on the Roof • Assistant Stage Manager – The Diary of Anne Frank • Chorus and Stage Hand – West Side Story
20xx 20xx 20xx
Mark Taper Forum • House Manager – Camelot • Director – Little Shop of Horrors • Stage Manager – Sweeney Todd • Artistic Director and Choreographer – Cinco de Mayo/LA
20xx 20xx 20xx 20xx
Skills Fundraising Event planning Management Spanish (fluent)
Playwriting Grant writing Accounting skills Ability to work under pressure
Use this listing to demonstrate other skills that may be important for management or director positions
Awards McNair Scholars – UCSB – Renewable Scholarship National Association of Hispanic Directors – Rising Star Award
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20xx 20xx
Education
Key Features:
• "Credential" is before, and separate from, "Education" • "Student Teaching" & "Related Experience" sections
This has the same header as the matching cover letter on pg. 84, this makes for a professional look when presented together
Tomás Teacher
123 Career Street ■ Culver City, CA 91604 ■ (111) 333-5942 ■ tteacher@ucsb.edu CREDENTIAL Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential in Social Science University of California, Santa Barbara
Expected June 2016
EDUCATION Master of Education University of California, Santa Barbara GPA 4.0
Expected July 2016
May 2015
CERTIFICATION Social Science Subject Matter Program, USC
May 2015
Bachelor of Arts, History University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, CA
RELATED EXPERIENCE Teacher’s Assistant, Jordan High School, Inglewood, CA USC Joint Educational Project Coached students in French II pronunciation and conversation skills Facilitated weekly discussions about French culture, history, and geography Observation in History classroom, LA area schools
Mini-team Activity Leader, Audubon Middle School, Culver City, CA
January - June 2016
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STUDENT TEACHING Dos Pueblos High School, Goleta, CA Student Teacher Principles of American Democracy (12th grade magnet) World History (9th grade magnet, 10th grade regular education) Instructed gifted, average, and low achieving students of multi-ethnic backgrounds Implemented differentiated instruction in every class to meet individual learning needs Maintained order and discipline in classrooms of 25-50 students Set up student tutoring sessions and parental conferences Volunteered to work track and field events
September - December 2014
2011 - 2013 September - December 2011
USC Joint Educational Project Planned and directed weekly Roman history lessons for a sixth grade classroom Volunteer, Diver School for Special Education, Edwardsville, IL Supervised severely handicapped students, ages 11-18, in classroom activities After-School Tutor, Oak Street Elementary School, Edwardsville, IL ACTIVITIES AND HONORS Experience coaching and playing volleyball and tennis Phi Beta Kappa (Academic Honor Society) Kappa Delta Pi (Education International Honor Society)
June-September 2010 2008 - 2010
2014 2014
SPECIAL SKILLS Published writer: Featured in Spring 2015 edition of USC journal AngeLingo
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Marketing/ PR
JC Education
Marketing & Design Experience
Key Features:
• Portfolio website • Supplemental degree Website portfolios are a must for visual artists
Janice Cortona 805.555.5555 ² yourname@umail.com ² linkedin.com/in/name
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Expected Graduation: June 20xx Bachelor of Arts, Communication Relevant Courses: Social Marketing, Media Entertainment, & Organizational Culture UCSB Extension Expected Completion: August 20xx Professional Certificate: Marketing Relevant Courses: Financial Analysis, Project Management, & Principles of Public Relations
Marketing Intern— UCSB Career Services ²² ²² ²² ²² ²²
August 20xx - Present
Write and edit a weekly e-newsletter promoting events offered by Career Services Interface with employers to sell over $10,000 in ad space in the 2015-2016 Career Manual Developed marketing materials for one of the most successful Winter Career Fairs Executed cross-platform calendar system, resulting in 30% increase for event attendance Supervise and assist in the training of a second marketing intern
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Free-lance Graphic Designer— Santa Barbara, CA ²² ²² ²²
October 20xx - Present
Design logos for several local start-up businesses, for use on the web and print Conceptualize and execute designs for signs, brochures, menus, and negotiate price terms Create several websites and collaborate with businesses on design and corporate identity
Course Project: Marketing in the 21st Century— UCSB Extension ²² ²²
Public Relations & Editorial Experience
²²
Summer 20xx
Using Google Analytics, tracked campaign results to inform brand management, chapter communication, and outlined industry relations and engagement formats Collaborated with managers to unify and grow 230+ campus chapter network
Editorial Intern—UCSB Chapter www.hercampus.com/school/ucsb
Leadership Experience
²² ²²
September 20xx-20xx
Wrote and edited articles, contributed to editorial calendar, and drafted social media posts Assisted editor-in-chief with chapter goals and content management
Director of Social Media and Publicity— UCSB Comm. Association Store Manager— Blenders in the Grass, Isla Vista, CA
See information about interactive resumes and a helpful example on pg. 68 & 69
Spring 20xx
Created mock social media plan including postings for blog, LinkedIn, and Twitter Utilized web marketing mediums, Search Engine Marketing (SEM), and website optimization/analytics to analyze projects such as SWOT analysis
HerCampus.com Chapter Management & PR Intern— Boston, MA ²²
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Visit my Profile
Winter 20xx—Present
November 20xx—February 20xx
Key Features:
• Has no objective stated
Political Activism Patrick Medown
(805) 555-1234 • pmedown@gmail.com
EXPERIENCE U.S. Senator Diane Feinstein Washington, D.C. Intern March 20xx–Present ss Research Immigration policy and legislation issues for the Judiciary Committee, Memo Writing. ss Respond to constituent mail. ss Schedule tours and respond to constituent concerns. UC Santa Barbara Associated Students Santa Barbara, CA Campus Action Liaison in the office of the External Vice President of Statewide Affairs September 20xx–March 20xx ss Organized UC Wide campaigns around the UC budget and the CA Dream Act. ss Worked voter registration drive and helped UCSB become the campus with the most registered voters in the nation. ss Researched policy and legislation surrounding the above issues. United States and University of California Student Associations Santa Barbara, CA Organizer 20xx–20xx ss Met with multiple elected officials and held presentations surrounding student debt, immigration reform, and national/state budgets. ss Built national and statewide university student association campaigns fighting for the CA Dream Act, Federal DREAM Act, student loan debt forgiveness act, and against Secure Communities. ss Appointed delegation leader for conferences at Washington, D.C. and Sacramento.
This resume does not have an objective AND starts with an "Experience" section because the experience is sufficiently descriptive, relevant, and compelling. The cover letter that would accompany such a resume would clarify the type of position being sought
EDUCATION
Job Search Tools
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Santa Barbara, CA Bachelor of Arts in Global and International Studies with an emphasis on the Middle East Expected Graduation: June 20xx ss National Society of Collegiate Scholars. ss Dean's Honors. ss GPA: 3.99 Semester at Sea Mediterranean Europe and North Africa Study Abroad Program through the University of Virginia Summer 20xx ss Developed an analytical perspective on the international human rights law systems. ss Acquired personal insight and knowledge for global cultures.
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE UCSB Improving Dreams Equality Access and Success (I.D.E.A.S.) Santa Barbara, CA ss Served as Co-Chair, 20xx–20xx, and Internal Advocacy Chair, 20xx–20xx. ss Directed recruiting efforts and increased membership by over 50%. ss Led and planned annual outreach conference for over 200 high school students at UCSB. ss Hosted and led community workshops on Deferred Action and other immigration legislation. UCSB Housing and Residential Services Santa Barbara, CA Resident Assistant August 20xx–June 20xx ss Addressed student conduct and facilitated conflict mediations. ss Created and executed programs varying in topics from education, community service projects, and campus wide event. Manchester Beach KOA Campground and Resort Manchester, CA Office Receptionist and Clerk Seasonal June 20xx–August 20xx ss Managed reservations, check-ins, and check-outs, as well as other administrative duties. ss Supervised store and inventory. Guest Service Representative ss Addressed guest complaints, questions, and information. ss Greeted an approximate 100-300 customers per week.
SKILLS
ss Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish. Native Spanish Speaker. ss Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and have PC hardware knowledge. ss Experience with public speaking and conducting interviews.
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Interactive Resumes Having interactive elements on a resume is another way you can show creativity and graphic design skills to potential employers. This interactive resume was created in Adobe InDesign and then exported as an interactive PDF. The thumbnails of the pictures are actionable buttons that, when clicked, show a larger view with additional images and accompanying text (as shown on the next page). The interactive resume is similar to an online portfolio. Different pieces of work can be displayed visually, and then explained through text. The interactive format provides more space than a
normal resume to showcase artwork, writing samples, or any other visual or audio information. An interactive resume can be sent directly to employers or can be posted on a LinkedIn page, personal website, or blog. Showing that you have the skill set to create a document with interactive elements will appeal to employers and will convey an interest in design and technology. NOTE: This is for jobs in creative industries and would be inappropriate for accounting, human resources, or engineering; at least in the present market. Keep in mind...things change.
Job Search Tools
Active hyperlinks to email address and LinkedIn page
Click on button to reveal more information about this poster
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Job Search Tools
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Social Services
Key Features:
• A broad objective • Study abroad experience • Highlights specific, relevant experiences
Amelia Torres 1234 Abrego Road Goleta, CA 93117
amelia.torres@umail.edu (805) 555-1234
OBJECTIVE To apply my trilingual counseling abilities through an internship in social services. Include study abroad experience within the Education section
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, expected June 20xx University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Honors Program, GPA 3.5 Relevant Courses: • Social Psychology • Psychological Research • Developmental Psychology • Introduction to Career Development Education Abroad Program, Paris, France. Sept. 20xx – May 20xx
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COUNSELING & LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Use bullet points within the paragraph style to maximize usage of page
Career Peer Advisor, UCSB Career Services, Santa Barbara, CA Sept. 20xx - Present • Provided counseling and advising in both Spanish and English to diverse community of students on wide range of topics • Calmed difficult, angry, and anxious students • Explained usefulness of various career-related assessments • Maintained confidentiality and complied with FERPA regulations Chair, UCSB Chicano/Latino Psych-Soc Club, Santa Barbara, CA Sept. 20xx - Present • Led meetings of up to 15 members • Mediated conflicts between members • Arranged and presented culture-based workshop for high school students • Provided support and remained sensitive to the needs of the various club members RESEARCH EXPERIENCE Research Assistant, UCSB Psychology Department, Santa Barbara, CA, Dec. 20xx - Present • Guided participants through experiments • Managed data using Excel • Maintained confidentiality of results Historian, Raices de mi Tierra, Ballet Folklorico, Chula Vista, CA May 20xx - June 20xx • Researched regions of dance and presented findings to dance troupe • Gained insight into various subcultures of the Mexican culture • Established rapport and conducted informational interviews with wide range of performers Complete work history available upon request. SKILLS Trilingual: English, Spanish, and French.
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This sentence conveys that there is more information available, but most relevant information is included
Study Abroad
Key Features:
• Functional Approach • Financing Education Functional resumes, although not widely used, highlight your skills and abilities, rather than your chronological work history
Margaret Bell (805) 555-1234 • m.bell@umail.edu
OBJECTIVE Entry-level international trade position utilizing knowledge of foreign cultures and languages, administrative skills, and research abilities EDUCATION University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Expected June 20xx Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with an emphasis on International Relations GPA: 3.5 Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain Intensive Spanish Language Program
Aug 20xx-Dec 20xx
Financed 75% of my educational expenses through scholarships and part-time work while attending school on a full-time basis
Administrative/Computer • Systematized filing system for a law firm to increase efficiency • Administered accounts receivable and payable for a software firm • Handled twelve incoming phone lines for software firm • Used UCSB online database systems to conduct research • Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint and Access
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PROFESSIONAL SKILLS Cross-Cultural/Languages • Increased cross-cultural sensitivity and understanding through semester study abroad program in Sevilla, Spain and extensive travel experiences during this time • Conversational Partner with International Students & Scholars Program and Volunteer Assistant with UCSB Extension ESL Program • Fluent in Spanish, French, and Dutch
International Research/Marketing • Researched and compiled an overview of worldwide environmental clean-up industry • Developed representation agreements with various suppliers • Marketed two different international internship exchange programs to local businesses • Conducted research as part of course on management of international business EXPERIENCE SUMMARY • Import/Export Intern, Intertrade Services, Ventura, CA Summer 20xx • Marketing Associate, AIESEC (Association Internationale des Etudiantes en Sciences Economiques et Commerciales), Santa Barbara, CA Fall 20xx • Administrative Assistant, Law Office: Joseph Bart, San Francisco, CA Summers 20xx, 20xx • Receptionist, SL Corporation, Corte Madera, CA Summer 20xx
Who should use functional resumes? People who . . . • Have gaps in their work history • Don't exactly fit the mold of what • Are reentering the workforce recruiters are looking for in the positions • Have frequently changed jobs they want • Are looking to transition into a new career
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LGBTQ
Key Features:
• Keeps sexual orientation discreet
Nunya B. Izness 1234 Abrego Road Goleta, CA 93117
nunya.b.izness@ucsb.edu (805) 123-4567
OBJECTIVE To obtain a position in human resources using my knowledge of business and human behavior.
EDUCATION
B.A. University of California, Santa Barbara Major: Psychology Cumulative GPA: 3.5
Expected Graduation: June 20xx Upper-Division GPA: 3.76
Relevant Courses: - Introduction to Applied Psychology - Business Writing
- Social Psychology - Business Communications
EXPERIENCE
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Intern, Student Resource Center, UCSB Santa Barbara, CA mm/20xx - Present • Facilitate 20 bi-weekly discussions of 10-15 students regarding issues of diversity • Co-coordinate programming for a regional conference with over 400 students in attendance, managing over 40 workshops and caucuses • Work with ethnically diverse students to advocate for increased representation and services within the university environment • Organize campus phone banking to educate voters about civic issues Chair, “Chicano/Latino Psycho-Soc,” UCSB Santa Barbara, CA mm/20xx - Present • Organize club meetings of up to 15 students • Mediate conflicts between group members • Arrange and present culture-based workshop for high school students regarding careers in psychology Research Assistant, Applied Psychology Dept., UCSB Santa Barbara, CA mm/20xx - mm/20xx • Assisted with community-based participatory research project studying segments of the local Santa Barbara community • Led outreach efforts to targeted sub-populations, manually entered information from physical surveys, helped to develop categories for qualitative research
OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Member, UCSB Political and Social Student Diversity Group
Member, Hermanos Unidos, UCSB
mm/20xx - Present mm/20xx - Present
SKILLS
Languages - Fluent in Spanish and English Computer - PC and Mac, Proficient in all Microsoft 20xx Applications
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Thank you to Michael Rogers for providing this resume, and the one on the following page.
LGBTQ
Key Features:
• Refers to sexual orientation
Gotta Shoutit 1234 Abrego Road gotta.shoutit@ucsb.edu Goleta, CA 93117
(805) 123-4567
OBJECTIVE To obtain a position in human resources using my knowledge of human diversity, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) and Chicano issues.
EDUCATION
B.A. University of California, Santa Barbara Major: Psychology Minor: LGBTQ Studies GPA: 3.5 Expected Graduation: June 20xx Relevant Courses: - Introduction to Applied Psychology - Chicana Writers
- Social Psychology - Sociology of LGBT Communities
EXPERIENCE Intern, LGBT Resource Center, UCSB Santa Barbara, CA mm/20xx - Present • Facilitate 20 bi-weekly discussions of 10-15 students regarding issues important to the queer managing over 40 workshops and caucuses
• Work with ethnically diverse LGBTQ students to advocate for increased representation and services within the university environment
• Organize campus phone banking to educate voters about Proposition 8 Chair, “Chicano/Latino Psycho-Soc,” UCSB Santa Barbara, CA mm/20xx - Present • Organize club meetings of up to 15 students • Mediate conflicts between group members • Arrange and present culture-based workshop for high school students regarding careers in psychology
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community
• Co-coordinate programming for a regional conference with over 400 students in attendance,
Research Assistant, Applied Psychology Dept., UCSB Santa Barbara, CA mm/20xx - mm/20xx • Assisted with community-based participatory research project studying the local Santa Barbara LGBTQ community • Led outreach efforts to transgender community, manually entered information from physical surveys, helped to develop categories for qualitative research
OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Member, UCSB Queer Student Union
Member, Hermanos Unidos, UCSB
mm/20xx - Present mm/20xx - Present
SKILLS
Languages - Fluent in Spanish and English Computer - PC and Mac, Proficient in all Microsoft 20xx Applications
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International Student Do not include personal information such as marital status, ethnicity, birth date, or employment status
Key Features:
• International Educational Experience
Mylinh (Lin) Kwok
Indicate "adopted" American name in parentheses. If your name is difficult to pronounce, consider including the phonetic spelling beneath your name (i.e. "My-lin")
CURRENT ADDRESS PERMANENT ADDRESS 4321 Career Street 957 Ling Wong House Isla Vista, CA 93117 Flat 5, 7/C Phone: 805.555.1234 Kowloon, Hong Kong mkwok@umail.edu Phone: 852.1234.5678 OBJECTIVE To obtain a position as software engineer with concentration in developing communication software.
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS • Three years of experience developing dynamic and interactive databases • Proven communication skills developed through leadership and presentations • Fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese • Proficient in C++, SPSS, and Dreamweaver • Culturally fluent in customs of Hong Kong, China, and the United States
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EDUCATION Master of Science, Computer Science University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) GPA: 3.75
Convert foreign GPAs to be consistent with the 4.0 GPA scale used in the United States
Expected June 20xx
Bachelor of Science, Computer Engineering May 20xx The University of Hong Kong (Globally recognized and ranked as the #1 university in both Hong Kong and China)
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE Systems Analyst/Programmer, June 20xx – Present UCSB Student Information & Systems Technology • Analyzed, designed and implemented the Job Matching Program for Career Services • Helped implement inter-departmental computer communications systems (Outlook) • Wrote FOCUS programs to extract information from student records database • Established supercomputer connection with ABC State College • Coordinated and presented training sessions for computer users in the Division of Student Affairs
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE • Vice President of International Students Association (UCSB) • Member of Kappa Alpha Psi (UCSB)
20xx-20xx 20xx-20xx
HONORS & AWARDS • Dean’s List – UCSB All quarters to date • Recipient of $4000 Academic Scholarship, UCSB Department of Computer Science
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Curriculum Vitae
A curriculum vitae (CV) is typically submitted by a graduate student pursing academic positions. On occasion, though, CVs are requested of undergraduate students who are applying for graduate school or other opportunities, such as research, government fellowships, and grants.
Writing a Curriculum Vitae
The CV is most widely used to provide the reader with a summary of your academic accomplishments: disciplines studied, degrees earned (or in progress), and academic-related experience, especially teaching and research. For the CV to be successful in doing this, it must first attract the interest of the reader – to entice him or her to take a closer look at you and your other application materials.
CV Categories
Typical categories you might consider include: Contact Information Education Dissertation Professional Experience Research Experience Teaching and Research Interests Publications Presentations Professional Affiliations References
Other possible categories include: Professional Training Languages Awards Fieldwork Other Professional Experience Certification or Licensures
Constructing a CV that really highlights your selling points is a process that involves numerous drafts and reviews. Start early to craft a CV that includes all of your experiences, and then copy and paste from that in order to create a targeted CV. Leave a resume is different yourself plenty of time to get a curriculum vitae feedback and incorporate your RESUME desired changes. (Above information adapted with permission from UC Berkeley Career Center.)
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2-5 pages is the typical length of a CV, and you For a look at what an undergraduate CV would can expect yours to grow longer as you gain more look like, turn to the next page! experience. You can anticipate that you will need more than one CV, so that you can emphasize your various skills and experience based on different requirements (e.g., teaching versus Please see the sample on research). The copy and paste function the following page for of a word processing program makes additional information on this process fairly easy, but it is still time how to organize your CV consuming to get it the way you want it.
from (CV) CV
A brief advertisement intended to evoke interest and action
A comprehensive summary of qualifications and work experience
Used to apply for work in industry & the private sector
Used to apply for work in education or research/scientific institutions
A marketing piece presenting information relevant to the position sought
A more detailed document about an applicant’s past
Brief, one to two pages
Longer, between 2 and 10 pages
Begins with job objective
Job objective optional
Focused & specific
Inclusive & comprehensive
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Undergraduate CV Sample GAUCHO STAR Curriculum Vitae
Marine Science Institute University of California, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA 93106
1 (000) 000 – 0000 gauchostar@gmail.com linkedin.com/in/gauchostar
EDUCATION 2016 (expected)
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) B.S. Aquatic Biology, GPA 3.65 SENIOR PROJECT 2015-2016
Advisors: Dr. Smith and Dr. Jones Explored mechanisms that facilitate colonization of different plantbased aquatic animals. Utilized SUCBA surveys and experiment maintenance, conducted statistical analysis, data management, and scientific writing. Resulted in a 30-page final project that was presented to research team.
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FIELD AND LABORATORY EXPERIENCE
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6/2015 – 8/2015
Field Research Assistant, UCSB Sampling of beach invertebrates after the 2015 Refugio oil spill
2/2014 – 3/2014
Field & Laboratory Assistant, Marine Lab, UCSB SCUBA collections of invertebrates, deployment and retrieval of experimental equipment, setup and maintenance of mesocosm lab experiment, dissection and grinding samples for isotope analysis, water sampling and filtering.
8/2013 – 9/2013
Dive Intern, UCSB Marine Science Institute (MSI) SCUBA collection of urchins and deployment of tethered urchins for a predation experiment, surveys of kelp and benthic invertebrate abundance at study sites.
6/2013 & 9/2013
Laboratory Assistant I, SONGS Mitigation Lab, UCSB MSI Sampling of salt marsh fish, invertebrates, and vegetation
4/2013 – 6/2013
Intern/Laboratory Assistant I, Crab Lab, UCSB MSI Sandy beach sampling, identification of nearshore macroalgae and beach macroinvertebrates, grain size analysis, data entry and processing, LiMPETS teacher training, conducting a pilot study testing the efficacy of vital stains on beach invertebrates.
CLASSROOM & LAB EXPERIENCE 1/2016 – present
Project Leader, Animal Behavior (EEMB 138), UCSB Explored research pertaining to animal behavior in marine life in pacific ocean and produced a review of relevant information. Collaborated with 3 other group members. Presented information to professor and class.
6/2014 – 7/2015
Lab Member (EEMB 170) UCSB Setup and cleanup of labs, organization of materials, assisting students with projects. AWARDS
2012
“Best Undergraduate Poster,” South African Sandy Beach Symposium PUBLICATIONS
2014
Jones, D.M., Smith, J.E., Hope, N.K., Star, G. 2014. Local extirpations and regional declines of beach fauna in Southern California
2016
The role of disturbance, larval supply, and native community on the establishment of a non-native species on oil platforms in the Santa Barbara Channel Poster at the LTER Network’s All Scientist Meeting
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PRESENTATIONS
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT 5/2012-6/2016 9/2014-8/2015
Vice President of Aquatic Biology Club Resident Advisor for Anacapa Hall SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
Technical Skills: species identification, dissecting microscope use, database research, scientific writing, experimental design, statistical methods Computer Skills: Microsoft Office, SigmaPlot, JMP, R Diving Certification: SSI Open Water Diver Certified (2014)
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Cover Letters Made Easy
1 2 3 4 5
While each cover letter needs to be custom-crafted that doesn’t mean you need to start from scratch each time. Using a simple yet highly effective formula, you can produce these letters quickly – without sacrificing quality, and with careful attention to the specific needs of each employer.
Follow these steps:
Different audiences dictate different introductions. Whenever possible, write to an individual by name. This creates a better impression and gives you a better opportunity for follow-up. Don’t be afraid to call a company and ask who your letter should go to. (Just be prepared with your professional introduction, in case you get that person on the line!) When responding to an online posting or ad, omit outdated salutations such as “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern” – consider using a “Dear Internship Coordinator” or “Dear College Recruiter”.
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While most readers enjoy a snappy, interesting opening more than the standard, “I’m writing to inquire about jobs at your company,” never sacrifice clarity for cleverness. Be sure that the opening of your letter clearly communicates why you are writing and why the reader should care.
Be Clear
The body of your cover letter should tell the reader what they care about – namely, what you can do for them. Your value is best communicated through your specific accomplishments rather than vague statements. A bullet-point format is extremely useful for highlighting three or four relevant points, and this format forces you to keep your letter to a concise, readable length. This section of your letter is easily tailored to the specific needs of your audience – whether described in a job posting, related to you by a networking source, or learned through research. Use your accomplishments as evidence of your ability to assist them with precisely the challenges they are facing.
After delivering your value message, provide just enough information to give your audience a sense for your scope of experience and key selling points. Don’t overwhelm readers with too much detail; don’t retell your entire career history; don’t feel you must respond to every requirement listed in an ad; and don’t go overboard relating your personal attributes. In fact, if your letter is too long, your paragraphs too dense and wordy, chances are your audience will give up before finishing. Your goal is simply to entice them to read your résumé and want to know more about you, inviting a call for an interview.
You’ve said your piece, given your readers the initial information they need to evaluate your candidacy. End your letter on a positive note, expressing your interest in a meeting. Again, it is more important to be clear than to be clever, but do try to keep your language fresh by avoiding overused phrases and sentences.
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Address Your Audience
Communicate Value
Don’t Overdo It
Exit Gracefully
There you have it! Each time you write a cover letter, save it to use as a template for the next letter. And remember to keep an active follow-up folder.
Adapted from Louise Kursmark, author of Cover Letter Magic, 15-Minute Cover Letter, and more than a dozen other books on résumés, cover letters, interviewing, and other career topics. An award-winning résumé writer and president of Best Impression Career Services, Inc., she is professionally certified as a Master Résumé Writer, Interview Coach, and Career Transition Coach.
Cover Letter Outline YOUR “LETTERHEAD” HERE (use same heading you use for your resume) Date
Employer Contact Information: Name Title Company Address City, State, Zip Code
Salutation: Dear Mr. or Ms. Employer Last Name: Make every effort to find the name of the person in charge of hiring. If you absolutely are unable to learn this, avoid the use of “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir or Madame,” and instead consider the more modern “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Human Resources Manager.” “Dear Decision Maker for X Position” or “Dear Recruiter” work well, too.
Body of Cover Letter: The body of your cover letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up.
Middle Paragraph: The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Convince the reader that you are highly-qualified for the position by making strong connections between your abilities and their needs. Mention specifically how your skills and experience match the job you are applying for. Remember, you are interpreting your résumé, not repeating it. Try to support each statement you make with a piece of evidence. Use several shorter paragraphs or bullets rather than one large block of text.
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First Paragraph: The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the position you are applying for. Include the name of a mutual contact, if you have one. Be clear and concise regarding your request.
Final Paragraph: Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up. State that you will do so within a week's time of the date you send your cover letter and résumé. Use a specific time frame, such as "during the week of May 19."
Complimentary Close: Respectfully yours,
Signature: Handwritten Signature (for a mailed letter) Typed Signature
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Cover Letters Cover letters are never optional. This is your personalized sales pitch that determines whether your resume is reviewed. It is a chance to show the reader the person beneath the accomplishments, to make a personal connection between the reader and your background.
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Sample Cover Letter
Benjamin Fitz
1234 Road Street Anywhere, CA 00000 bennyfitz@umail.edu 805-555-1234
February 7, 20xx Maya Employer, Benefits Supervisor Best Company 7890 Street Avenue Somewhere, CA 11111 Dear Ms. Employer:
Create an opening that catches the reader’s attention right from the start. If you have that mutual friend or are answering an ad the employer placed in the paper, say so right away. Immediately mention the traits you want the reader to consider when thinking of you. Or, construct an interesting opening that jumps out and makes a point
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How does a company manage to provide a cost-effective yet competitive benefits package for its employees? While I am certain that there are no easy answers, this is the type of challenge that stimulates me and prompts me to apply for the position of Benefits Analyst. My qualifications for this position come from a six-month internship I had last year and my undergraduate degree in Sociology. From the internship I gained a solid understanding of basic benefits management, including the process of researching and evaluating various options that might be offered to employees. Through the evaluation process, I was able to exercise my skills with numbers and formulas to examine the costs and values of each option. In addition, I first observed, and then participated in, lively discussions among top managers and the benefits supervisor, and from these I learned the art of diplomacy in the workplace. This skillful dance of tact dovetailed well with my study of interpersonal communication within my major, while my understanding of the various needs of different groups of people helped me to better comprehend the issues under discussion. I imagine that every workplace has its unique approach to benefits, and I believe that my experience to date would enable me to quickly learn yours at Best Company. I hope to meet with you in the near future to discuss the position and my qualifications in further detail. I will contact you during the week of February 15 to see how my application is progressing. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Benjamin Fitz P.S. I heard of this position through my neighbor, Penny Moneybags, who works in your finance department.
Consider borrowing an idea from successful direct mail writers: use a “P.S.” which achieves high readership and response
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Sample Cover Letter CHRIS GOLETA 5655 Vista Universidad Isla Vista, CA 93117 (805) 965-8540 chris@vista.com October 20th, 20xx Leslie Sanchez, Program Director Edible Schoolyard Project Chez Panisse Foundation 1517 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, California 94709
Your opening line is critical, as is the first paragraph. The average employer needs to be enticed to read past the first sentence
Dear Ms. Sanchez: I learned about your work with Alice Waters and the Edible Schoolyard Project from my professor, Donna Lubak. She knows my career interests and, remembering you from her class in 2007, urged me to get in touch with you. I visited your website and was thrilled to see a job posting for a Site Coordinator Position. I have enclosed my résumé with this letter. After a careful reading of the position description, I am confident that I have a number of skills and experiences that I can put to use at the foundation:
• Strong accountability and reporting capabilities. Successful completion of the UCSB writing minor has honed my abilities to integrate various report formats using Excel and PowerPoint in creative and effective communication styles.
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Pick three to four top skills or qualifications the employer is seeking based on the job description and match your interests, traits, experiences, and education
• Program outreach and strategic planning. Two of my internships were on local area school sites where I learned about the culture and basic structure of the public school settings in California. During this time, I worked closely with a foundation-sponsored program to increase student reading skills and observed and assisted in several successful combined program initiatives that might be useful for the Edible Schoolyard project.
• Language and cultural sensitivity. During my internships and travels, I have acquired insights into the barriers and challenges facing non-English speakers in addition to my own efforts to become fluent in Spanish. • Healthy eating habits advocate. As a certified food enthusiast, I regularly volunteer at the Isla Vista Food cooperative sorting organic vegetables and helping customers. The mission of the Schoolyard project is a direct match with my own system of values.
The best time to meet for me would be during my winter break at the end of March. I will check with you in the next couple weeks to find out when would be best for you. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Chris Goleta Chris Goleta
Close the letter by letting the employer know how they can reach you and by taking the responsibility yourself for the next step. Tell the reader when you will contact them to see when the two of you might meet to talk in person. This is not being pushy—it is showing initiative
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Sample Cover Letter 6511 Sabado Tarde Road #7 Goleta, CA 93117 ssmith@umail.ucsb.edu
January 24, 20xx Blake Carroll, College Recruitment 355 South Grand Ave. Suite 2000 Los Angeles, California 90071 Dear Mr. Carroll: The auditing internship position at KPMG LLP is of great interest to me. As a junior attending the University of California, Santa Barbara, I am eager to apply my accounting and tax coursework through a summer internship with a firm located near my hometown in the Bay Area. Your company appears to be one in which my educational training to date coupled with my analytical skills and previous work experience could result in a mutually beneficial association. My previous employers have found me to be exceptionally hard working, motivated, and dependable in carrying out the variety of responsibilities assigned to me. I have previous internship experience
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in the financial sector having worked for Bay Federal Credit Union. As a part of their banking system conversion team I became familiar with teamwork and project planning efficiency in a professional environment. It was this summer internship that sparked my initial interest in accounting. Currently, I work part time for the Career Services Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara where I assist my fellow students in finding internships and career related employment by utilizing the resources of the center. I prefer the Silicon Valley office and am available to work June through September. Enclosed you will find my rĂŠsumĂŠ for your review as well as my unofficial transcript. I have taken a number of courses that have given me a strong foundation in accounting and economics. I will continue to enroll in upper division economics and accounting classes as I complete the requirements to obtain my degree in Business Economics with an Accounting Emphasis by June 20xx. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to meeting you and discussing how I can contribute to your firm as a summer intern. Sincerely,
Steve Smith Enclosure
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Sample Cover Letter Paolo Moretti 123 Gaucho Way Goleta, CA 93117 805.555.1234 paolo.moretti@umail.ucsb.edu April 12, 20xx Mr. Brian Clark Human Resources Manager SLO Scientific Research Center 123 College Dr. San Luis Obispo, CA 93105 Dear Mr. Clark: I am pleased to submit my application for the position of Assistant Professor of Marine Animal Ecology that is open in your department. The SLO Scientific Research Center would be an excellent place to conduct and teach science given its ready access to marine and estuarine field sites, the opportunity to teach motivated undergraduates, and a suite of colleagues doing interesting research with whom to collaborate. Please find enclosed my résumé which outlines my qualifications for this position. I believe I am well qualified for the position that you are seeking to fill and would be a strong asset to your department for several reasons:
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●● First, I have a strong background in ecological theory, experimental design, and quantitative analysis and statistics. My participation in scientific working groups, presentations at numerous national and international conferences and preparation of papers for journal publication reflect my commitment and ability to contribute strongly to the advancement of the field. ●● Second, I plan to continue research focused on the function and organization of estuarine, marsh and near-shore environments, particularly on the populations of organisms that live there. Furthermore, I have a strong commitment, as evidenced in my previous work and publications, to making the results of my research applicable to conservation issues. In particular, I have emphasized development of the field of invasion biology into a more predictive, proactive discipline. ●● Third, teaching is a passion of mine. My experience leading a field ecology course over several years at UCSB, teaching high school, and preparing numerous conference presentations, have sharpened my teaching skills and solidified my commitment to teaching as a life-long pursuit. ●● Finally, I am a strong advocate of collaborative efforts, and therefore very excited by the diverse research interests of the faculty at SLO Scientific that can provide complementary expertise for such endeavors. The ability to collaborate with researchers at the Center for Marine Biology, CICEET, and Sea Grant and Open Ocean Aquaculture (OOA) programs is a particularly exciting opportunity. I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you in person to present details of my latest work, and to talk with you in depth about your own research and possible areas for collaboration. I will contact you next week to make sure that you have received my application. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. Please feel free to ask for additional supporting materials, including references. Sincerely, Paolo Moretti
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Sample Cover Letter Tomás Teacher
123 Career Street ■ Culver City, CA 91604 ■ (111) 333-5942 ■ tteacher@ucsb.edu
May 1, 2016 Dr. Judith Myers, Principal Oakwood High School 4567 Hillside Drive Carpinteria, CA 93013
This has the same header as the matching resume on pg. 65, this makes for a professional look when presented together
Dear Dr. Myers:
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I read with great interest the posting for a high-school social science teacher currently posted on EdJoin. I will be completing my single subject credential at UC Santa Barbara this June, after which I will be available for a full-time teaching assignment. Enclosed is my résumé for your consideration. My status as a soon-to-be-credentialed teacher formalizes my long-term interest in teaching, as I have five years of experience teaching elementary- and high-school students. As far back as high school I recognized my passion and capacity for teaching, which I put to work as an after-school tutor at an elementary school, and as a volunteer with severely handicapped adolescents. While earning my B.A. in History from the University of Southern California, I participated in several opportunities in local middle- and high-school classrooms doing everything from observing history classes, planning and delivering history lessons, and engaging high school students in discussions about French culture, history, and geography. It was in the high school environment where I found the greatest job satisfaction in helping students to find present-day meaning in history. This experience proved to me that my true calling is as a social science teacher, and in my student teaching over the past year I have felt both challenged and exhilarated in all aspects of teaching. I would very much like to bring my enthusiasm for and commitment to teaching social science to Oakwood High School. Thank you for taking the time to consider my credentials. I believe that my background and dedication make me a strong candidate for this position and to the teaching team at Oakwood High. I look forward to sharing my ideas, energy, and enthusiasm with you at your convenience. I will contact you again during the week of May 12 to see how my application is progressing and to see if there is anything else I can provide you.
Sincerely,
Tomás Teacher
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Sample Email Cover Letter Be sure your subject heading tells the employer what to expect. Example: Social Worker Candidate
Dear Selection Committee:
I am excited about the Social Worker Assistant position with We Care Services in the Los Angeles area. My recent degree in psychology combined with my bilingual Spanish/English skills and community outreach experience make me a strong fit with this position. As you will see in my attached resume, I have served a variety of leadership and program development roles through collaborative team work and creative problem solving methods to best serve at risk student populations. I now hope to apply these skills in developing effective short and long term plans of care that best address the psychosocial needs of the elderly. Through direct service at an elderly care facility in Santa Barbara and personal family experiences, I have learned the importance of finding creative ways to interact with different types of individuals needing to share their stories and life experience. My coursework in developmental psychology has further strengthened my theoretical framework for the types of issues that present themselves to this population. I consider myself patient, respectful, and understanding of the health and mental challenges that confront the elderly. For all these reasons, I seek your active consideration of my application for this position, and look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Sincerely,
Following Up After Applying
You’ve submitted your application/resume/cover letter for a job or internship. Now you just sit back and relax, waiting for the employer to contact you, right? Wrong!
Your follow-up (or lack thereof) speaks volumes to employers. If your cover letter indicated that you would follow up with them, make sure you do precisely what you said you would do. You may call or email them with a message something like:
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Stew Dent
When you do get a response to your application from the employer, this is a very positive sign and you should take it seriously. Your actions are indicative of how you will behave in the workplace, so be 100% professional in your interactions with the employer – in both your written and oral communication.
“On April 17 I applied for the position of financial analyst. I am still very interested in the position. Please let me know if there is additional information I may provide that will help you move forward.” Whether you email or leave a voice-mail message, it is unlikely that you will get a response. However, the important part is that you demonstrate to the employer that you follow through – and that you get your name in front of the employer one more time.
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Sample Reference Page References for Jonathan Mills 123 Country Road Goleta, CA, 93117
Use the same header as your resume and cover letter
(805) 123-4567 jmills00@umail.ucsb.edu
Jane Cooper, Manager, VisionTek, Inc. 3 Alamitos Way, Santa Ynez, CA 93145. (905) 987-6543 jcooper@cox.net. • Ms. Cooper was my immediate supervisor during a six-month internship in the manufacturing department at VisionTek. She can be reached during normal business hours.
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Tu Riker, President, Goleta Water Council 300 Brook Street, Goleta, CA 93117. (805) 111-2222 riker@gwc.com. • Mr. Riker supervised my work as a public-opinion researcher during Hurricane Sandy in 2012. He can be reached after 3:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Dr. Felicia Cortez, Director, Marine Scientists for Conservation 390 Walrus Road, Seattle, WA 94329. (206) 999-8888 cortez@msc.org. • I worked for Dr. Cortez for three summers. She supervised my conservation projects as well as clerical work. She can best be reached mornings at the number provided.
E x p e rt A d v i c e
References
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If your references are so well known that the mention of their names would be a magic key, think about listing their names on your resume. This gives you the flexibility of altering your list according to appropriateness for each job for which you are applying. Possible references are former supervisors, UCSB faculty, and others who are qualified to comment on your work habits, achievements, personal qualifications, etc. Line up your references in advance and clue them in on your career objective so they will know which of your sterling qualities to emphasize. Keep your references posted on your progress and send a thank you letter. People who help deserve to be appreciated.
WHAT YOU DO MATTERS Join our team of technology innovators.
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Check out our current opportunities for Software Developers, Technical Account Managers, and more at www.yardi.com/careers.
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Interviewing for the Job Interview Preparation
Diligent preparation for interviews is the best way to reduce anxiety and boost performance. There are many ways to get ready for interviews. Below are some methods we’ve been recommending to students in recent years: understand the interviewer, prepare for the behavior-based interview, and develop stories that highlight your skills and background.
ability to communicate clearly about your field as well as the unique aspects of what you have to offer their company/industry. If you are a humanities/social science student: Both written and oral communication are necessary within and between organizations. For example, reports have to describe procedures and outcomes accurately, and phone calls are often used to clarify specific points. While you might imagine someone else will take care of the communications, it usually comes back to the individual project team member. Also, communication skills are essential if you want to take advantage of promotions that can lead to marketing, management, and consulting.
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Consider the Interviewer. Interviewers are under considerable stress and pressure. They must determine in 30 minutes whether you can do a job effectively, be appropriate for the organization, or stay long enough to warrant training. Interviewers must learn as much as possible about you Humanities/Social Science Employers say: If you are an engineering as quickly they can. “To qualify you must show strong leadership or science student: potential; have excellent analytical, communication, When you consider The technical job is the and interpersonal skills.” this, you understand beginning for many why you want to do professionals. Technical well in thoroughly communicating your qualities projects require teamwork coordination of tasks and strengths as they relate to the company. and roles, where communication is essential.
In technical areas, students often depend upon Know the Company. Simply being informed mathematical skills and technical expertise. about an employer does not guarantee a successful However, no one works alone on projects. You must interview. You must demonstrate that knowledge be able to speak and write clearly in order to work by successfully “weaving” information about the employer’s products, finances, and services into your well within an assigned project group. answers. Most employers have information about Communication is key their company both online and in print. Check Lily Maestas, in her book Unlimited Options, their website first to see if what they have is easily informs us that as you interview, “Remember: accessible. Major employers provide annual reports words create a thousand pictures.” In the interview, and company literature while smaller organizations you want to package and sell yourself. Your publish brochures, fact sheets, and annual reports. communication in the interview process will be a Good resources for company information include determining factor as to whether or not you get LinkedIn, the UCSB library, trade journals, the hired for the job. It is essential that you are able Web, and Chambers of to feel confident and know Commerce, to name a few. Technical Employers say: that you are competent in your “We examine your potential for oral communication skills. Interviewing Skills presentations of experiments and results
The interview is all Practice, Practice, as well as technical writing skills.” about communication! Practice Communication is the means by which you as By reviewing what you want to say out loud with an applicant advertise who you are, the skills and a friend or relative, you will be able to utilize your assets you offer, and reasons why you are the right interviewing communication skills. You will be one candidate. Your communication allows you to make step closer to success and finesse in delivering your a lasting impression. interests, answers to questions, and needs clearly and confidently throughout the interviewing process. Employers not only value knowledge and skills in
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your discipline, they place importance on written and oral communication skills as well. They expect you to know about the world of work and have the
Be sure to develop your language skills and vocabulary. After you have thought of the experiences, achievements, or images you want to
portray about yourself, practice pronunciation, enunciation, and sentence structure until feel confident in your ability to deliver your answers to the interviewer comfortably and effectively. The bottom line: Finding a job requires the ability to communicate. Keeping the job, and especially advancing in your career, requires the same.
Interview Follow-up
Always send a thank-you letter after an interview. Reiterate any important points that illustrate your qualifications. Add any points that you forgot to mention at the interview. Thank the interviewer for their time and for what you learned about the company. Interviewers with our On-Campus Interview Program(OCI) have an online option to give
you an interview evaluation. Not all do, but you can check with the OCI desk a few days after your interview to see if your recruiter submitted evaluations. These reports will not tell you whether or not you got the job, but they can tell you something about your interviewing skills. If two or three interviewers suggest that an area needs improvement, make an appointment with a career counselor to polish those skills. Another way that a career counselor can help you is on interview follow-up. Perhaps an interviewer promised to notify you in three weeks, and you have not heard anything. What do you do? Or perhaps you need assistance with salary negotiations, or need guidance in decision making. Ask our staff for assistance during this process.
E x p e rt A d v i c e
Phone Interview Tips
This increasingly popular interview format presents one of the great challenges in business communication. If you follow a few tips, you can get to the next step, a face-to-face interview. Confirm All Aspects of the Phone Interview Before the call, confirm all arrangements such as the date, time, and whom you will be speaking with.
Practice Regular Interview Formalities Use the person’s title during the conversation (Mrs., Ms., or Mr. and their last name.). Only use a first name if they ask you to. Otherwise, stick with the formal title. Choose a Smart Interview Space Use a quiet, comfortable, and private space. Turn call waiting off on your phone and use a land line, not a cell phone, whenever possible. You don’t want to have to worry about static or dropped calls. Evict all roommates, turn off any device that might beep or ring, put a “do not disturb” sign on your door. Have your resume in clear view. Have a note pad and pen ready for note-taking.
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Prepare for the Phone Interview Research the job and the company so you are prepared to discuss the organization and your role. Practice interviewing so you have an idea of what you’ll say in response to likely interview questions.
Be Cognizant of Your Phone Communication During the interview, sound as professional as if you were meeting the interviewer face to face. Don’t smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink while you’re on the phone. Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice. Speak slowly and enunciate clearly. Don’t speak in run on sentences that will not allow the interviewer to interject or ask more questions. Thank the interviewer and ask what the next step in the process will be. Remember to send a thank you note after every interview, regardless of how it is conducted. Source: Allison Doyle’s Phone Interview Tips jobsearch.about.com/cs/interviews/a/phoneinterview.htm
NOTE: We have phone interview spaces at Career, come in for more info!
Skype Interview Tips
Technology plays a large role in the hiring the recruiting process. So, don’t be surprised if you are asked to participate in an online virtual job interview. The same rules apply whether the interview is in person or online. You should conduct yourself in a professional manner while also considering these aspects when it comes to using technology: get your technology ready, dress for the camera, remove distractions, do a test run, and look directly at the camera when answering questions.
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Behavior-Based Interview Industrial psychologists studying the interview process in the late 1970s ushered in a new style of interviewing called the “Behavior-Based Interview.” According to Tom Washington, a popular author on career-seeking topics, the behavior-based interviewer “asks questions which help determine how candidates actually performed in previous jobs.” A major aspect of Behavior-Based Interviews is more follow-up questions. Your interviewer’s initial question might be about one of your classes. When
you tell them about how you worked on a classroom project with a group, a small avalanche of specific questions might follow: How many people were in the group? Did you have any conflict? Did you miss any meetings? What would you say your role was in the group? These questions represent a dogged effort by the interviewer to imagine what kind of person you are “in action” solving real problems in settings similar to the ones you’ll encounter at their company.
E x p e rt A d v i c e
.
Situation Task Action Results
S.T.A .R
(The STAR Method)
When presented with behavior-based interview questions, one effective technique to use when responding is the STAR Interviewing Method. With the STAR Method, you will use its acronym (STAR) as key navigation points to deliver your 60-90 second response. This should be in a story-telling format, which is more memorable and gives the interviewer greater insight into your skills and problem-solving abilities.
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Method
Situation/Task
Actions Taken
Results Achieved
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Example
“I was involved in a group project last quarter for a class in which our team had to create a business plan. Group members varied in their skills and motivation to complete the project, and each member was delegated tasks and deadlines for completion, including progress updates every week. One group member had fallen very far behind, and our group’s grade was in jeopardy.” “As group leader, I was responsible for delegating the project components. I reached out to the group member who was Describe the actions or no longer keeping pace. While talking to steps you took to solve the him, it became clear that he had an entirely problem or overcome the different understanding of our objective and obstacle. how it would be achieved. This realization was important: his unique viewpoint actually helped our group better define our approach to creating the business plan.” Answer these questions: What was the outcome? “As a result, our group became more cohesive, Were the results which helped us produce a successful business measurable? What were plan and made the group experience more the benefits? What was enjoyable.” learned? Did you gain any unexpected insights?
Specifically describe confronting a situation or task in which you solved or developed an action plan to overcome. Clearly describe the situation or task’s context and avoid generalization.
Sample Interview Questions Personal Assessment
School/Work Background
Tell me about yourself. What are your short-range and long-range personal and career goals? What rewards are most important to you in your chosen career? How would you describe yourself? How do you think others who know you would describe you? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Do you prefer to work under supervision or on your own? Would you be successful working on a team? Do you have any hobbies? How did you get along with your former professors (supervisors and co-workers)? Describe your ideal job.
Did you work while going to school? In what positions? Have you worked under deadline pressure? When? What problems have you solved in your previous positions? How does your college education or work experience relate to this job? Why did you choose your major? What did you enjoy least about your last employment? What kinds of career-related internships or jobs have you held? What was the most difficult part of your college experience? Have you ever spoken to a group of people? How large?
Motivation
Employer Knowledge
Why did you choose to interview with our company? How much do you know about our company, our product, our service? What do you look for in an employer? Why do you want to work for our organization? E x p e rt A d v i c e
Tips for Improving your Interview Skills
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What led you to choose your major field of study? Why did you decide to attend UCSB? What courses did you enjoy most and why? What rewards are most important to you in your career and why? What major accomplishments would you most like to achieve in your life and why? Were you financially responsible for any portion of your college education? Who are your role models?
•• Take classes requiring you to write and discuss •• Get an English tutor •• Develop your vocabulary by learning a few new words each week www.wordsmith.org
•• Call the Office of International Students and Scholars at (805) 893-2211 about their English Conversation Program •• Take a class from the Writing Program www.writing.ucsb.edu
•• Join Gaucho Toastmasters (GT), a public-speaking group at UCSB osl.sa.ucsb.edu/OrgList
Diversity Matters - Mock Interviews
For students who have strong concerns about their interviewing skills, we offer mock interviews. Students who may be best served by participation in mock interviews include students whose first language is not English, international students, students with disabilities, students who have had little exposure to professional careers (first generation), and students who have had little or no interviewing experience. For more information, go to our Diversity Matters section on pg. 110.
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Sample Interview Answers
?
“Tell me a little about yourself...”
“What are your strengths?”
Answer
What Makes the Good Answer Better?
It gives the interviewer a wide GOOD: “I became interested in business after working in my par- range of options for pursuing ents’ grocery store. I decided to attend UCSB because of the well- additional information. The rounded curriculum, and I took an internship in my junior year where I worked with a pharmaceutical firm in the sales department. ” interviewer can relax and listen and not have to feel like she has to pull every bit of BAD: “I am a student at UCSB and am graduating in June.” information out of you. GOOD: “There are two strengths I’d like to mention. First, I am patient. Last summer I was a camp counselor for a group of 24 children between the ages of 8 and 12. It took great patience to keep them productive, entertained, and playing together cooperatively. And second, I have good communication skills. Through Toastmasters I have learned the art of public speaking and have given oral reports in classes that have received the highest grade in the class.”
It proves you have those strengths by giving examples of how each strength has been used. It gives concrete, specific, information: “24 children” and “best grade in the class.”
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BAD: “My strengths are my patience and communication skills.” GOOD: “I sometimes have problems managing my time. Last quarter I found myself working long hours the week before finals to get all my schoolwork done by the due dates. I didn’t want to experience “What another week like that, so I took a time management class early this are your weaknesses?” quarter. I have used what I learned to stay on top of my assignments better, and have even turned one assignment in early!” BAD: “I’m a perfectionist.”
“What are your longterm goals?”
“What can you bring to our company?”
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GOOD: “My immediate goal is to graduate and secure a job in human resources. I understand that it will take anywhere between 3 and 12 months to be fully trained for the first position. After my supervisor and I feel I have mastered the basics of my position, I would be in a better position to decide whether I’d be better suited to a management job or one that enables me to develop increased technical expertise.”
The “perfectionist” answer is over-used. Everyone claims to be a perfectionist. The “good” answer describes a legitimate weakness, and then goes on to show that when faced with a weakness, your approach is to work on it.
BAD: “I haven’t really thought about it.”
While the bottom line is the same—“I don’t know”— it shows that you have given the matter some thought. It gives the interviewer a chance to see how you approach problems and what your values might be.
GOOD: “I think most students graduating from a UC bring a love of learning and a demonstrated ability to succeed at what they do. I share those qualities. But what differentiates me from other students is my leadership experience. I served as manager of our intercollegiate softball team. I was responsible for scheduling facilities, maintaining inventory, motivating the other players, and ensuring everyone got adequate practice. I hope the combination of leadership experience and academic proficiency puts me at the top of your list of candidates.”
It puts the competition in a good light. If you say good things about the other candidates, you will seem more generous and confident. Putting your competition down weakens your chances.
BAD: “I’m very enthusiastic.”
Closing the Interview
Interviewers usually end the interview by asking, “Do you have any questions for me?” The correct response is always “Yes!” Use the list below to formulate your own questions for this part of the interview. Generally take no more than five minutes. Then close with the following: Ask about the employer’s time line for making a decision and if it is okay for you to call and check in. Reiterate your interest in the position. Tell the interviewer, “If you have any additional questions or would like any additional information, please feel free to contact me.” Smile. Write a thank-you letter or email within 24 hours restating your interest in the job and your appreciation for his/her time.
Examples of Poor Questions
Tell me about your training program. (Too general—shows you didn’t do your homework.) At what salary level would I be if I progress to Step 3 in my second year with the company? (Shows your concern is money as opposed to responsibility). Could you explain your fringe benefits package? (Boring question—ask about specific aspects.) I noticed that last year your dividends dropped two points—was that due to your plants closing in Virginia? (Too technical. A better question: “Could you discuss the problems related to the plant closure in Virginia?”).
Questions to Ask Employers
1234 Campus Road Goleta, CA 93117 March 10, 20xx Ms. Camille Cooper Human Resources Manager Best Company 4321 Main Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101
S “Th ample an Let k You ter “
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What are some typical career paths of employees in your organization? What is a realistic time frame for advancement along these paths? What are typical first-year assignments? Please describe the training and/or professional development opportunities offered by the company. What are the company’s strengths and weaknesses? Is it company policy to promote from within? What characteristics best describe a successful person at your company? Why do you enjoy working for the company? How are trainees evaluated? What kinds of communication channels are there between the trainees and the supervisors? What distinguishes people who are promoted from those who are not? What are some of the products or services that you may be cutting back in the future? How would you describe the company’s organizational culture and management style? What are the company’s plans for future growth? What is the departmental structure where I would work?
Source: Northwestern Endicott Report by V.R. Lindquist, by permission of Northwestern University Placement Center, Evanston, Illinois.
Dear Ms. Cooper, Thank you so much for interviewing me yesterday. I really appreciated hearing about the widgets Best Company produces as well as the opportunities for advancement and career paths in your company. I am more convinced than ever that Best Company is the place I want to be. I think my organizational and customer service skills would make me a great fit for your entry-level administrative position. And I am excited about becoming a wholesaler and working directly with your customers as my training progresses. Please let me know if I can provide you with any additional information that would make you confident about my fit with your company. Sincerely
z
ne JJ Jime Josh Jimenez
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Feminine
Interview Dress
Hair: Style your hair so it’s
not falling into your face.
Make-up and Jewelry:
Avoid bright colors and excessive amounts. Light shades of lip coloring and nail polish are recommended. Jewelry should be small and conservative. Only one ring per hand and one earring per ear, small studs preferred.
Blouse:
Wear a neutral color such as white or beige; avoid bright colors and large prints. Do NOT wear a lowcut or see-through blouse.
Suit: A business dress, worn with a jacket, or tailored pantsuit is acceptable. Make sure the skirt length is just at knee length, either right above or right below the knee.
Color:
Choose conservative colors such as black, navy, gray, camel or brown in a flattering cut.
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Fabric: Choose a light wool or rayon fabric with some weight, in a solid color or subtle pinstripes Shoes and Hosiery: Do not wear open toe or extremely high heels. Shoe color should coordinate and remain in neutral, such as navy, black or taupe. If you choose to wear hosiery, make sure it's in a color similar to your skin tone. Lori Cooper is an expert wardrobe consultant and owner of Wardrobe Wisdom in Santa Barbara, CA. Her contribution to the content on these pages make them invaluable to job seekers.
Dress for Success
DOs and DON'Ts For Men and Women
T
ake the time to make sure you have a good, neat haircut and short, clean nails. For men, facial hair should also be well-trimmed and tidy looking.
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Have a dress rehearsal 2 days before your interview.
Make sure your suit is tailored to fit you (take it to a tailor 2 weeks before your interview). Ask for help when you are shopping for your outfit. Let the salesperson know you are looking for a timeless interviewing suit and tell them your budget.
Jacket: The sleeves should taper, gradually ending just over the wrist so the shirt cuff extends about 1/2 inch beyond the jacket sleeve.
Shirt: The button down collar offers a more casual look than the more formal business style of a point collar. Choose a good fit, neatly pressed. Best colors include white or pale blue. Always wear an undershirt. Suit: A suit is always first choice, but if unavailable, a navy jacket or blazer with black or navy buttons and gray or beige pants are acceptable.
Masculine
Tie: Your tie should be darker than your shirt and should not extend below the belt. Wear 100% silk (or similar looking) in solid colors or small patterns.
Pants:
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The pant leg bottom in the front should touch the front of the shoe and angle towards the back of the shoe to fall just above the heel. Pant cuff or no cuff is a personal choice.
Color:
Choose dark colors, such as navy or gray, black is often considered formal. Suit should be solid color or subtle pinstripes.
Fabric:
Choose a light wool or rayon fabric with some weight, in a solid color or subtle pinstripes
Shoes: Best choice is a conservative style with laces. Best shoe colors are black, brown, or burgundy and should match your belt. Wear with a new shine and dark socks over the calf.
Dress to Impress Iron your shirt and check your outfit for stains or tears before you put it on. Do not get your haircut minutes before your interview. This will result in tiny hairs all over your neck and suit jacket. Do not wear cologne or perfume.
E x p e rt A d v i c e In California, employers are required to allow employees "to appear or dress consistently with the employee's gender expression and/or with the employee's gender identity" Any gender can wear any type of clothing, masculine or feminine, as long as it is professional. For more information check out: www.transgenderlawcenter.org/ issues/employment
Do not show up to your interview with distracting piercings (i.e. nose rings, eyebrow piercings, HUGE ear holes). Do not arrive in an ill-fitting, wrinkled, stained, or torn shirt or suit.
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Negotiating the Offer Once offered a job, you have the opportunity to discuss terms of employment before accepting or declining the offer. Negotiations are uncomfortable, sometimes risky, and often unsatisfying as we are trained from an early age to value win/lose situations. We tend to approach negotiations with a winner-take-all attitude that is counter-productive to the spirit of negotiation. Negotiating with your potential employer can make your job one that best meets both your needs and those of your employer.
Follow these tips for a successful negotiation:
Make your initial request in writing. Meet later to work out the differences. Be assertive even if you don’t feel that way. You have been chosen from a pool of applicants, so you are not as vulnerable as you think.
Don’t rush. Encourage the employer to think about it for a day or two before the two of you reach a conclusion. Remember: It is a process—not an event! Negotiations are usually a series of volleys and lobs, trade-offs and compromises that occur over a period of time. Get it in writing. Once you have reached a conclusion that suits you both, present in writing your understanding of the agreement. Address any questions immediately. Compromise. If the employer chooses not to grant any of your requests, you still have the option of accepting the original offer provided you have maintained a positive, productive and friendly atmosphere during your exchanges.
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Some Negotiable Items
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A signing bonus An annual performance bonus The right to freelance Cost of moving Company-paid pension plan Extra vacation time Annual physical examination Child care/parental leave Personal time Education Stock options
Bonus program based on performance goals A reserved parking space Deferred compensation A company car Expense account Flexible work schedule Part-time/job sharing Retirement plans Profit sharing Paid trips Source: Unlimited Options by Maestas, 2014.
Handling Job/Internship Offers Student Guidelines Do not hoard offers. If you are interested in a particular offer, let the employer know immediately.
Notify organizations on your decision regarding their offers in the agreed-upon time frame. If you need more time, you may contact the organization for a possible extension. However, it will be the employer’s decision whether to grant that request for more time.
NOTE: Rejecting an offer after having previously accepted – for any reason – is a serious recruiting violation and is subject to significant repercussions such as losing your On-Campus Interview program and Handshake privileges (each circumstance will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis). After such unprofessional behavior, you may also ruin your chance to work for certain companies permanently and you may also affect future Gauchos if the company chooses not to recruit at UCSB due to your actions.
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UCSB Career Services supports both employers Accept an offer only after careful consideration. and students in the hiring process. We assist employers in maximizing their recruiting results and Only accept an offer if you are 100% sure! we assist our students in making informed career After accepting an offer, withdraw from the decisions. In order to project the utmost professional interview process with other companies. If you image to employers and to successfully participate are holding pending offers, you are expected to in recruiting activities, we strongly urge UCSB immediately notify these organizations of your students to abide by the following guidelines: final decision. Do not go back on your word after accepting At all times in the recruitment process, represent an offer, except in cases of extreme personal yourself and UCSB in an appropriate and emergency. professional manner. 99 Accepting a job offer, either verbally or in writing, is an agreement to work for Recognize that not all offers are negotiable, even an employer. in a competitive market. Be realistic about your expectations and conduct appropriate research before approaching an employer.
Additional Job Offer Information that You Should Know:
We also want to make sure that you are aware of the following information to ensure that you are not feeling pressured or unprepared when making a sound career decision:
Make sure that you have the conditions of your employment/internship offer clearly defined in writing (job duties, salary, bonuses, benefits, starting date, work location, etc.). If a formal offer letter does not follow a verbal offer, follow up with the employer immediately and request this document.
Understand the implications of “exploding
offers.” Exploding offers are offers with “short fuse” deadlines. Employers may attempt to pressure you into accepting their offer immediately, thereby lessening the opportunity for competing offers.
Examples include:
99 An employer requires candidates to accept
offers within a very short time (24-48 hours)
99 An employer extends offer to candidates that
exceed the number of openings available, and tells candidates that they will be hired on a first-come, first-serve basis 99 An employer gives signing bonuses only to candidates who accept offers immediately We ask that employers who recruit with UCSB give all students a minimum of 2 weeks in which to make their decision. Similar to these guidelines we also ask that employers abide by the specific guidelines outlined here: career.sa.ucsb.edu/employers/hiringucsb-students/job-offer-policies
NOTE: If at any time in the recruitment process you have questions, are unsure how to proceed, or are experiencing undue pressure to make an employment decision, please make an appointment with a career counselor at Career Services ASAP! We are here to help you navigate this process, make the best decisions, and act in a professional manner.
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Graduate & Professional Schools Considering furthering your education
after your time at UCSB? Whether you decide to go on to pursue academics or to obtain a professional degree, graduate school requires a huge commitment in terms of money and time. This chapter gives you an overview on deciding factors for attending graduate school and how to go about applying. Take our quiz on the following page to see if graduate school is right for you. Learn about the various types of graduate
Graduate & Professional Schools
schools and degrees available. Find out
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about the application process and how to gain a competitive edge when applying.
Is Graduate School for Me? Types of Graduate and Professional Schools Graduate School Time Line Building Qualifications How Do I Pick a Grad School? Graduate School Exams Grad School Application Process 3 Ps of Grad School Interviews Choosing Among Offers The Gaucho Within
Is Graduate School for Me?
Is graduate school for you? Here’s a quiz! Of the four statements listed below, choose the one(s)
that best describes why you’re considering graduate school. Circle all that apply:
1. I am pursuing a career that requires an advanced degree. 2. I want to know more about my subject of study. 3. I need to buy a few years while I figure out my career. 4. I want to earn more money.
If you chose. . . #1 You are preparing for a career that requires advanced education: college professor, psychologist, marine biologist, lawyer, researcher, doctor, sociologist… These are examples of careers that require an advanced degree as an entrance requirement. If you are considering such a profession, then graduate school is the right path for you.
#2
#3
#4
You have a passion for a subject that is compelling you to learn more. Whatever your passion might be, your undergraduate education has only begun to spark your interest and you simply need to learn more. If you need to pursue your passion for education, then graduate school is the right path for you.
Graduate school may be a poor choice for you. Graduate school is an expensive and time consuming endeavor. Rather than paying thousands of dollars per year for the privilege of being confused, why not get a job and have someone pay you? You can still go to graduate school later if it turns out you need or want to, and you will be a much better student once you know why you’re there.
You’re probably barking up the wrong tree. Companies pay employees not by how much education they have, but by the work they do. While it’s true some jobs that require an advanced degree pay more than some that do not (see #1), jobs that do not require advanced degrees generally do not pay employees more for having them.
There are two general types of graduate schools: the academic and professional. Academic programs correspond with the areas of study you would find at a university like UCSB. Students who are passionate about the topical area may pursue a graduate program in their area of interest to gain more indepth knowledge. The following are degrees usually conferred to students who finish academic graduate programs: • •
M.A. (Master of Arts) or M.S. (Master of Science) in a specific discipline. Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) extends two to four years beyond the master's level, and requires an original research project called the dissertation. This option is required to be a professor with future options for consulting and research.
Professional programs, on the other hand, focus on developing the skills, competencies, and credentials for a specific professional career. For example, a student who graduates with a Doctor of Medicine degree uses his or her knowledge of the physiological sciences to help improve the physical condition of patients who are struggling with a disease. Turn to the next page for a chart of some popular programs.
Graduate & Professional Schools
Types of Graduate and Professional Schools
Visit the Career Resource Room for print materials that provide extensive information about graduate and professional programs, requirements for entry, and career paths.
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Types of Graduate and Professional Schools cont. Brief Descriptions of a few Programs
Graduate & Professional Schools
Degree
Description
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Prepares students to become business administrators. GMAT required for most schools, and 2 years of real-world experience is usually expected before starting the program.
Master of Public Administration
Prepares students for careers in public administration, industry, and government.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Prepares students for social work: clinical track with direct client communication or community practice track focuses on organization and politics. To conduct therapy: licensing exam is required to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Degree for visual, plastic, literary, and/or performing arts. Usually takes two or three years. Common fields: theater, creative writing, visual arts, and filmmaking.
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Most students usually possess another advanced degree (e.g., law). Deals with five core public health areas: health services administration, management, biostatistics, epidemiology, behavioral sciences/health education, and occupational and environmental health sciences.
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Held by physicians and surgeons. MD and DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) necessary to study full scope of medicine. MCAT required to apply for MD program.
Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD)
Usually takes three years. Not necessarily a prerequisite for LL.M. (Master of Laws) or a J.S.D. (Doctor of Juridicial Science). LSAT required to apply for JD program.
NOTE: The time it takes to complete a program varies depending on specific schools and those programs.
Graduate School Timeline (varies by program) JUNIOR YEAR
Fall
ØØ Attend a workshop on
Applying to Grad School
ØØ Attend Graduate &
Professional School Day.
ØØ Find your “passion.” ØØ Decide when you want to
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attend graduate school.
Winter
ØØ Investigate test preparation
resources for the required exam. ØØ Apply for summer internships.
Spring
ØØ Begin research on graduate or professional school programs. ØØ Email for application and financial aid information materials. ØØ Follow-up on summer internship applications.
Summer
ØØ Consider taking Test
Preparation courses if needed. ØØ Sign up for admissions exams (e.g., GRE, MCAT, GMAT) at the start of summer to take exam by the end of summer.
Building Qualifications Admittance to a graduate or professional program is a competitive process. The best and brightest from universities across the nation are applying for few, coveted positions in each program. Taking only classes during your undergraduate studies may not be enough for most graduate programs, even with stellar grades. Here are areas in which you can build qualifications to be competitive.
Relevant Experiences
Like applying for a job, graduate schools place weight on applicants with previous experiences. Some graduate schools, like many MBA programs, may not take your application seriously without relevant experiences in your career field. Your record of previous experiences is used as an indicator of your ability to handle the requirements of the graduate program. Use Handshake to find opportunities that are relevant to your field.
Research
There is a wealth of research opportunities at UCSB given its reputation as a top research institution. Research experience is particularly important for admittance to academic type programs, which aim at training future researchers. Find a research position through the Undergraduate Research and Creative Arts office. There are also summer research internships available on other university campuses. The deadlines for summer internships usually occur in early February.
Leadership and Teaching
Community Service
Many graduate schools want to see your commitment to serving the community. This pertains especially to fields that involve social or health services, such as teaching, counseling, and social work. UCSB has an outstanding Community Affairs Board (CAB) that offers E x p e rt A d v i c e one-time and on-going Undergraduate Research volunteer events. You can and Creative Arts (URCA) participate in blood drives, non-profit fundraising, The URCA office helps connect homeless feeding, students with faculty who are environmental clean-up conducting research. Access URCA and much more. The services by going to this website CAB office has a database www.duels.ucsb.edu/research. of community volunteer opportunities targeting On the front page of their website, various career areas ranging click on the FRAP (Faculty Research from advertising, business, Assistance Program) link to find a and law to counseling, directory of faculty who are looking tutoring, and community for research assistance. URCA also education. provides several scholarships and awards to student researchers. Professional
Affiliation
Typically, there are professional organizations, both locally and nationally, associated with each of the major career fields. The benefits for joining a professional organization include: subscriptions to the organization’s newsletter, opportunities to attend conferences, and networking opportunities with established professionals in the field. Find a list of professional organizations that fit your major by going to the Choosing a Major section of the Career Services website: career.sa.ucsb. edu/students/career-planning/choosing-major
SENIOR YEAR More Summer
ØØ Finalize your list of selected schools.
ØØ Prepare your Statement of Purpose and an updated résumé.
Fall & Winter
ØØ Review the application
Graduate & Professional Schools
For leadership, explore the list of over 250 student organizations that are available on campus, and take on leadership positions within the organizations that fit your career interests. If you are proficient in a particular academic field, you can apply to be a tutor at Campus Learning Assistance Services (CLAS). Another teaching opportunity is to serve as a discussion section facilitator for INT 20, a university success course that is designed for incoming freshmen. Finally, if you choose to take some time off before applying, join
the wonderful staff of Teach for America, a program that hires recent college graduates to teach students, or CityYear, an educational non-profit organization.
Spring
ØØ Evaluate offers and respond to
deadlines and requirements for everyone with your decision. the schools selected. ØØ Create a back up plan ØØ Request faculty and employer depending upon letters of recommendation. competitiveness of programs ØØ Finalize applications by selected. December or January.
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California Has a teacher shortage We need you to join this most rewarding and important profession.
Become a Teacher and Earn a Master’s Degree in 1 Year.
Graduate & Professional Schools
Help make school a place where young people:
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thrive and grow, feel nurtured and safe, realize their gifts and opportunities for their future.
Apply to UCSB’s Teacher Education Program Attend a Program Acclaimed for A full year of student teaching in one of our K-12 partner schools, with an experienced mentor.
Preparing teacher leaders who build their careers through innovation in multiple educational arenas.
Focusing on preparing teachers to serve the needs of ALL children, many of whome are currently not served well in school.
Being a model program for California. Named as one of “California’s assets” in the governor’s State Educator Excellence Task Force report
Graduates who use the linguistic, economic, academic, and cultural diversity of their students as resources in the creation of healthy, supportive learning environments.
The Program UCSB’s Teacher Education Program offers a rigorous, one-year, post-graduate M.Ed.+Credential program (an academic year with 2 summers). It is one of the highest quality programs in the nation, with state-of-the art practice grounded in partner schools, a focus on teaching to reach ALL learners, and teacher educators with established records of success.
☑ Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (for elementary school teachers) ☑ Single Subject Teaching Credential (for junior high or high school teachers) in: English; Industrial Technology; Math; History/Social Science; Science ☑ Education Specialist Moderate/Severe Teaching Credential (for special education teachers)
Graduate & Professional Schools
Credentials Offered
Degree Offered ☑ M.Ed. in Teaching
education.ucsb.edu/tep 103
How do I Pick a Grad School? One of the hardest parts of graduate school is the initial search. How do you find out which graduate school is the best match for your career goals? Different programs all have different reputations and different emphases. One school’s English program, for example, may be famous for Medieval Literature. This would not do you any good if your passion is contemporary fiction! Here are a few tips to guide your graduate school search:
Find Your Passion
Consider this approach: Is there any article you’ve read that made you say "Wow"? What is the most influential and cool article you’ve read about your subject of choice? Have you ever attended a speaker presentation here at UCSB and been blown away? Look up the author or speaker and find out which university that person works for. That’s the first step towards picking out a grad school. Graduate school relies heavily on faculty, and if there’s a faculty member you admire, why not go to that person? Not only that, but you’ll impress grad schools when, during an interview, you relate this life-changing article or presentation to them.
Graduate & Professional Schools
Do Your Research
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Unfortunately, unlike undergrad schools, gathering information on the reputation of grad schools can be difficult. Contact graduate advisors, alumni, current students, and people in the field to try to get a feel for the school. If a Geography program is known for its Human Geography, but you'd
rather have a program that specializes in Physical Geography, you better do your research. Look online and do as many searches as you can, look up faculty, alumni, etc. Check the accreditation status of the program you are applying to. Be sure to visit in person, too, to have live interviews and see the resources the program has. These steps will not only ensure you’re making a well-researched choice, but will make for a great “Statement of Purpose.” Naming past research done by faculty, naming prestigious faculty members, and being aware of the program will impress the reader of your statement.
Remember You're Not an Undergrad
You’re not an undergraduate any more. You need to be passionate about your research. Being a good student, or having a statement of purpose full of trials and tribulations are not enough to make an impression. You need to convince the school that you will help them. At this point you’re supposed to contribute your own research to help the field. Convince them that you can do that. Graduate school exams are various and frequently changing. Next is a rough guide of essential information for the examinations, all of which are a far cry from the SAT in high school. All of the following tests can be voided before walking out of the testing site, meaning that if you’re not comfortable with your score you can cancel it on the spot.
Every Fall we bring about 100 grad schools to campus for Graduate & Professional School Day
Graduate School Exams Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)
Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Offered 22 times per year at 19 different testing locations • Divided into four sections: Physical Sciences, Verbal Reasoning, Writing Sample, and Biological Sciences • Cost: $310 • Go to www.aamc.org/students/applying/mcat for more details.
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
• Offered four times per year, and can be taken at UC Santa Barbara. • Divided into five sections: Logical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Analytical Reasoning, Unscored Section, and Writing Sample. • Cost: $175 • Go to www.lsac.org for more details.
• Offered numerous times per year, by appointment, at select computer testing centers • Divided into 3 areas: Analytical Writing, Verbal Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning • Cost: $195 • Go to www.ets.org for more information
Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
• Offered by appointment at select testing centers. • Divided into three sections: Analytical Writing, Quantitative, and Verbal. • Cost: $250 • Go to www.mba.com for more information.
Surf the Web...
GRADUATE SCHOOL WEBSITES University Directory 101
www.gradschools.com
www.u101.com
A leading online resource for graduate school information with over 58,000 programs listed. Contains a unique and comprehensive directory categorized by curriculum and subdivided by geography. Users select their desired curriculum for information about those particular graduate programs.
U101 has rounded up links to almost 4,000 college and university web sites in the United States and Canada. The links usually go to the school’s home page. From there you can find information on admissions, courses, degree programs, online education and more.
Peterson’s Online Graduate Services
College Source Online
www.petersons.com
www.collegesource.org
Welcome to the most comprehensive and heavily traveled education resource on the Internet.
Contains over 10,700 complete college catalogs including 2-year, 4-year, graduate, and professional schools. An amazing resource. You may only access this site using a computer on the UCSB campus.
Test Preparation Services Prepare adequately for your graduate admissions exams. Often decisions regarding admission and financial support are based on the quality of your graduate test scores.
Graduate & Professional Schools
GradSchools.com
Test preparation classes are available for a fee through the following services:
• Princeton Review: www.princetonreview.com • Kaplan: www.kaplan.com
• Testmasters: www.testmasters.net
Bookstores carry a number of study guides and DVDs that focus on test preparation. Most public libraries will have copies of the study guides in their Reserved Book or Test Preparation section.
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Grad School Application Process
Each graduate program has different requirements, or they weigh each criterion differently. However, most graduate schools will evaluate your application on the following four factors:
1. Undergraduate GPA
The most competitive schools have high expectations for your GPA and will want it to be substantially over a 3.0. However, some state schools, private schools, and smaller schools are more flexible.
2. Graduate Admissions Test Scores
Take the exam approximately a year prior to when you wish to attend graduate school. Sign up for each test several months in advance. The UCSB Bookstore carries test prep study books. Though costly, some students enroll in commercial test preparation courses.
3. Letters of Recommendation
Graduate & Professional Schools
Often students are afraid to ask professors for letters of recommendation. Remember, it is part of their job. Most schools ask for three letters of recommendation and at least two of them should be from faculty.
4. Statement of Purpose
This is the personal side of your application. It can vary in length, depending on the school, and should highlight your related academic, research, work, and extracurricular experience. Both CLAS and Career Services offer many resources to help you with your statement. E x p e rt A d v i c e
Organizational Checklist Search program information and/or applications one year in advance.
Begin researching financial aid one year in advance.
Take the admission tests one year in advance.
Study each program’s application, noting deadlines.
Order transcripts two months before the deadline.
Contact your letter writers
approximately two months before the application deadline.
Proofread everything you have written.
Record the dates of submission of transcripts, test scores, and recommendations for each application.
Note the name, address and phone number of the admissions officer or the contact person for each program.
Keep a correspondence file of your letter of recommendation writers.
Check each program to ensure your letters have been received.
Letters of Recommendation Ask recommenders to individualize their letters, highlighting and tailoring your unique interests to prospective graduate programs. However, keep in mind that individualized letters consume much time and energy. Be judicial of who you ask and how many letters to request. If you have a dedicated letter writer, perhaps you can request individualized letters for your top schools.
Strategies for Approaching Faculty for Letters of Recommendation
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Attend office hours and ask about professors’ willingness to write a letter Give faculty plenty of lead time in order to meet your schools’ deadlines Provide them with the following information: 1. A rough draft of your statement of purpose 4. Unofficial transcript 2. A resume 5. List of graduate program addresses and 3. Undergraduate writing sample deadline dates Thank the recommenders and let them know the outcome of your applications
3 Ps of Grad School Interviews 1. Preparation
Know Yourself Review application materials (statement of purpose, work experience, research, work/volunteer experience). •• Be ready to explain why you are interested in this career path and what you hope to contribute. •• What personal strengths, skills, and abilities do you bring to the profession? •• Share your enthusiasm for joining this profession and what you can do to contribute. Know Your Field Research major authors/researchers/personalities in the field. •• Who are the key individuals and what are their accomplishments that inspired you to pursue this career? •• What are some of the hottest topics and trends in your field of interest? •• Make a link between your academic preparation, interests, research, and work experience with the target field/specialty. Know the University/Program Research student to faculty ratio, learning environment, theoretical orientation, etc. •• Research the university/program thoroughly with an eye on seeing how you fit into the environment and culture. •• Articulate why you want to attend this specific program. •• Who are the faculty in this specialization and how do you see yourself learning from and working with these individuals? Know the STAR method (See pg. 90) Use the Situation Task Action Results mnemonic to help develop and deliver your answers to interview questions. Why do you want to be a therapist? My interest began while interning at the Family Crisis Center where I received 60 hours of extensive training to effectively manage a wide range of situations. Averaging 15 hours per week for the last two years, my competence and skill in meaningfully helping those in crisis increasingly grew. This wonderfully rewarding experience has heightened and solidified my interest in the field of clinical counseling. Develop a brief list of questions to ask the interviewer(s).
3. Presentation – Day of the Interview • • • • •
Be professional and enthusiastic. Be punctual and well dressed. Be prepared for all types of questions. Prepare beforehand and practice your responses to questions. Conclude strongly by asking meaningful questions and summarizing your positive points. Follow-up with a thank you letter within 24 hours after your interview.
NOTE: These are general tips for preparing for your grad school interview. Please note that there are variations by field and program and we recommend checking with faculty in your discipline. For additional help, please see a Career Counselor.
Graduate & Professional Schools
2. Practice, Practice, Practice
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Choosing Among Offers
Once the applications are submitted, the wait begins for decision letters from the schools you have applied to. The best of all worlds would be acceptance to all schools that you have applied to, the hard part is deciding among the offers presented to you by the various schools. • • • •
What exactly is each program offering you? Is there a commitment of financial support from the program? To what degree is each school willing to fund your graduate study and for how long? Is your goal to get an advanced degree from any of the schools you applied to or to get your graduate degree from a specific institution regardless of the cost? • If there is no financial support offered by the school, what are your plans for funding your education? • Is the school located where you are willing to live for two or more years? • What is the cost of living in the areas where your schools are located?
Diversity Matters Ethnic Minorities In a nation whose population of youths is far more diverse than its population of adults, each new year brings a slightly larger share of minority teenagers into the pool of potential college freshmen. In 2013, 79% of Hispanic 18 to 24-year-olds completed high school compared to 60% in 2000. See our Diversity Matters section on pg. 110 for a list of resources that help minorities pursue graduate school.
Graduate & Professional Schools
The Gaucho Within
A recent campaign by our Career Peer Advisors emphasized bringing your personal strengths as Gauchos to networking, communications, interviews, etc... Your individuality combined with what you bring from your Gaucho experience is often a winning combination. Employers often cite aspects of UCSB students that make them very desirable candidates for hire. They comment about how well Gauchos adapt to their new working environment, how socially proficient they are, how quickly they make contacts and friends, and how entrepreneurial they are.
For students, bringing an example or two that highlights good performance as a team member, how you helped in a community setting, or how you worked within your campus organization is a conversation that might reach deeper than you'd think into the unstated requirements of a particular company/organization. Top 3 degrees in demand (master’s level)
Major
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% of Total Respondents Who Plan to Hire
Top 6 degrees in demand (doctorate level)
Major
% of Total Respondents Who Plan to Hire
Engineering
75.4%
Computer & Information Sciences
44.6%
Sciences
41.7%
Business
73.4%
Business
32.3%
Engineering
64.0%
Humanities & Social Sciences
13.8%
Computer & Information Sciences
48.2%
Education
4.6%
Source: 2014 Job Outlook Survey, National Association of Colleges and Employers.
Source: 2014 Job Outlook Survey, National Association of Colleges and Employers.
Achieve
Beyond
18-month accelerated programs available. CALL 877-GO-TO-ULV EMAIL degreeinfo@laverne.edu VISIT laverne.edu
Graduate & Professional Schools
Earn your graduate degree at one of our 10 campus locations or online.
1950 Third Street, La Verne, CA 91750
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Diversity Matters The cultural landscape of the American workforce has become much more diversified as people begin to associate themselves with a multitude of identities including ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, sexual orientation, and gender. This diversity is changing the world of work for the better because it offers multiple perspectives and solutions for issues within the workforce. This chapter is designed to explain the rights of all workers, provide information regarding on-campus resources for minorities, and prepare you for situations in which you may need to address (or utilize)
Diversity
your own diverse background.
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Know Your Rights Diversity and Your Resume Diversity and Your Interview Women Students with Disabilities LGBTQ International Students Ethnic Minorities
Know Your Rights It is imperative for every employee to be aware of his or her rights. Discrimination in the workforce can take many forms: a hostile work environment, unequal hiring practices, or lower income and benefits. Fortunately, there are laws in place that ensure your protection against discrimination:
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) was created by the government to eliminate discrimination based on gender, age, race, religion, national origin, and disabilities: www.eeoc.gov/ •• The EEOC also protects individuals from sexual harassment, which includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Affirmative Action takes a proactive approach to “leveling the playing field” by emphasizing the hiring of individuals who are underrepresented in a particular field. The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. This includes a lack of reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of a disabled employee: www.ada.gov/
Diversity and Your Resume Many employers appreciate diversity and believe that employing people with different backgrounds and interests will make a positive contribution to their organization. However, as you write your resume, you should consider both your own level of comfort in revealing personal information and how open the work environment is. Involvement or affiliations with particular political organizations or religious groups can reveal more about your personal beliefs than you are comfortable with sharing.
For example, if you identify as a member of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) community, be aware of both your privacy and how your identification as a LGBTQ person may be perceived in a more conservative work environment. That being said, in this global economy, some employers will appreciate students’ diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and language skills. Try to leverage these qualities when applicable.
For students who have strong concerns about their interviewing skills, Career Services offers mock interviews. Students whose first language is not English, international students, students with disabilities, students who have
had little exposure to professional careers (first generation), and students with little to no interviewing experience may be best served by participation in mock interviews. Please visit Career Services for more information.
Diversity and Your Interview
Diversity 111
Women Resource
Professional Women’s Association CAMPUS RESOURCE!
American Association of University Women CAMPUS RESOURCE! (UCSB is a university affiliate member)
Description This association spreads awareness among faculty, staff, and other campus constituencies of the contributions of women to the mission of UCSB. PWA also serves as a networking and communications channel among female employees at UCSB and provides a forum to influence decisions on campus and community issues that affect women at UCSB. AAUW’s campus leadership programs shape the lives of thousands of college women to be the next generation of leaders. Because UCSB is an affiliate member, students receive priority application preference for a variety of AAUW campus programs including the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders, Campus Action Projects, the National Student Advisory Council, and many others. Contact the Women’s Center for more information, wgse.sa.ucsb.edu.
Contact
osl.sa.ucsb.edu/ org/pwa
www.aauw.org
Society of Women Engineers
This national non-profit educational service organization serves as an information center for women in engineering and encourages them to attain high levels of educational and professional achievement.
societyofwomen engineers.swe.org
National Association of Women Business Owners
Founded in 1975, this association is the unified voice of America’s more than 10 million femaleowned businesses representing the fastest growing segment of the economy.
www.nawbo.org
The Association for Women in Communications
This association is the ideal vehicle for women specialists from diverse communication fields. Their focus is on recognizing, educating, mentoring, and advancing women as a service to society, as well as providing career advancement and business development ideas.
www.womcom.org
Students with Disabilities Diversity
Over 47 million Americans–almost one in every five–have a functional disability. The majority are under age 65 (source: www.healthypeople.gov). In 1999, the government passed the Ticket to Work
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Resource Disabled Students Program CAMPUS RESOURCE!
and Work Incentives Improvement Act, which improved access to both employment training and placement services for people with disabilities (source: www.ssa.gov/work).
Description
Contact
The DSP staff works in an advisory capacity with a variety of campus departments to ensure that equal access is provided to all disabled students.
dsp.sa.ucsb.edu
LGBTQ
A 2007 Gallup poll shows that 89% of Americans believe that lesbian and gay employees should have equal rights in the workplace, and a 2007 Peter D. Hart Research Associates survey indicated that "58 percent of respondents believe workplace protections should also extend to transgender employees." 21 states plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico outlawed discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation. The states banning sexual orientation discrimination in employment are California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Resource UCSB Resource Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity CAMPUS RESOURCE!
Pacific Pride Foundation
Human Rights Campaign: Workplace
Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin. Four states have laws prohibiting sexual orientation discrimination in public workplaces only: Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Montana. 16 states plus Washington D.C. outlaw employment discrimination based on gender identity or expression. Aside from state law, about 100 cities in 33 states have enacted civil rights legislation that includes sexual orientation.
Description The Resource Center offers a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, genderqueer, intersex, and ally members of the UCSB community. An organization that proudly provides services to the HIV/AIDS & LGBT community of Santa Barbara County. Provides employee resources that address the unique challenges that LGBT employees might face, an in-depth report on the policies and practices of American corporations as they pertain to the LGBT employees, and a discussion of benefits for domestic partners and same-sex spouses.
Contact
wgse.sa.ucsb.edu/rcsgd
www.pacificpride foundation.org
www.hrc.org/issues/ workplace
outforwork.org/
National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
The NGLCC is a business advocate and direct link between LGBT business owners, corporations, and government. The NGLCC is committed to forming a broad-based coalition of LGBTowned and LGBT-friendly businesses, professionals, and major corporations. The NGLCC seeks to promote financial opportunities, economic growth, continued innovation, and equality for its members.
www.nglcc.org/
Diversity
Out for Work
Out for Work provides resources for career development that pertain specifically to LGBT students, including conferences.
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International Students International students and their dependents contribute nearly $13 billion to the U.S. economy each academic year and bring unique social, cultural, and academic perspectives to American campuses. At the present time, 1455 undergraduate and 795 graduate students from 88 countries are studying here at UCSB. If you are an international student interested in building up your résumé, you must be aware of the legal restrictions on your employment. In order to attain a paid job, you must deal directly with the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS). OISS will assist you to apply for the necessary work authorization required to work in the US legally. On-campus employment is employment engaged in
students/job-search/job-hunting-international-students
Description
Contact
UCSB Office of International Students and Scholars
OISS assists students with immigration and personal concerns such as finances, housing, and adjustment. They make referrals, where appropriate, for other areas of concern such as academic and health matters. OISS also offers English conversation classes and activities for students.
oiss.sa.ucsb.edu
This association promotes cultural understanding and interaction between international students and American students interested in world culture.
oiss.sa.ucsb. edu/programs/ international-studentsassociation
This one-month intensive workshop will help you develop English oral proficiency skills and acquaint you with American culture and society. Daily English classes are taught by ESL professionals, and an introduction to American Culture and Society is taught by a UCSB staff member.
oiss.sa.ucsb.edu/ programs/summerworkshop
International Students Association CAMPUS RESOURCE! English Proficiency and California Culture Summer Intensive CAMPUS RESOURCE!
Diversity
Visit our Job Hunting for International Students web page for more information: career.sa.ucsb.edu/
Resource
CAMPUS RESOURCE!
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at UCSB such as teaching or becoming a research assistant, working in the University Center, etc. Once a student has completed their academic program at UCSB, they can apply for optional practical training (opt) in their field of study. This will provide an extension of status for students who wish to gain employment experience in the US before returning to their home country. All work authorizations must be initiated at the Office of International Students and Scholars.
GoinGlobal CAMPUS RESOURCE!
GoinGlobal is our featured tool to assist in your job and internship search. Access GoinGlobal through our website to utilize USA & Canada City Career guides that include job search resources such as online job boards, employment visa information, and résumé/CV tips. GoinGlobal also includes H1B visa application listings organized by both USA state and metro areas so you can identify company and job leads based on 400,000+ U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) H1B visa application records. Listings can be simultaneously searched by job title, occupation, employer, location, and/or wage. career.sa.ucsb.edu/students/job-search/goinglobal
Go to our website for GoingGlobal
Employment Eligibility for International Students (F-1 & J-1 Visa) The F-1 visa category is designated for all international students seeking a degree (Bachelors, Masters, or Doctorate) in the US and are self-funded. Students on an F-1 visa status are permitted to work on-campus up to 50 percent of the time (20 hours/week or less) during the academic terms and full-time during the academic break periods including summer. Special authorization is not required to work on-campus as long as you are in valid F-1 student status and are pursuing a full course of study. Once you have completed your study program you are no longer eligible to be employed on-campus without special authorization -- i.e. practical training. The J-1 visa category is most commonly used by students who are studying at UCSB as Exchange Students or are government sponsored either by their home government or the US Government. This visa category allows students who are enrolled full time, to work on campus up to 50 percent time (20 hours/week less) during the academic year, with authorization from the Office of International Students and Scholars. Students who have completed an undergraduate degree or pre-doctoral graduate degree are eligible for 18 months of Academic Training (in the course of study) or the period of full course of study in the J-1 status, whichever is less. Students in the post-doctoral level are eligible for 36 months of Academic Training (in the course of study). Students can apply for Academic Training at OISS but must have secured employment prior to applying for work permission.
Ethnic Minorities
In 2012, 19% of enrolled college students were Hispanic, 14% black, and 7% Asian. Some of this minority enrollment surge is a simple by-product of demographic change. In a nation whose population of youths is far more diverse than its population of adults, each new year brings a slightly larger share of minority teenagers into the pool of potential college freshmen. Source: Pew Research Resource
Student Resource Building CAMPUS RESOURCE!
CAMPUS RESOURCE!
ln-ucsb-latino-20150127-story.html
Description The SRB provides a number of Resource Centers to support ethnic minorities, striving to promote and encourage dialogue among the diverse ethnic groups, provide a supportive environment for students, staff, faculty, and community members, and elevate the development of cultural identities and communities. The ethnic cultural centers (and there are others) include: • African Diasporic Cultural Resource Center • American Indian Resource Center • Asian Resource Center • Chican@/Latin@ Resource Center • Middle Eastern Student Resource Center EOP celebrates diversity through its African American, American Indian, Asian American and Chicano/Latino cultural services and centers. Each cultural service and their affiliated student organizations design programs and events around each community’s cultural calender. Cultural programs encourage students to engage in activities that serve to enrich their academic experience and increase their awareness, understanding, and appreciation for their own culture and others. EOP also works closely with the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities Office in the College of Letters and Science to assist students in finding opportunities for research.
Contact
www.sa.ucsb. edu/srb/
Diversity
Educational Opportunity Program
UC Santa Barbara has been designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), a recognition given to colleges and universities whereby Latinos comprise of at least 25% of the full time student enrollment. About 27% of UC Santa Barbara’s 19,000 undergraduates are Latino, double the percentage from 25 years ago, according to UC data. Source: www.latimes.com/local/education/la-me-
eop.sa.ucsb.edu
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Veterans
Services for Veterans
Career Services is dedicated to assisting the career needs of our veterans and enlisted students. Veterans enter UCSB with a plethora of skills that employers and graduate schools seek such as leadership, discipline, dedication, management, multicultural awareness, and various technical skills. At Career we can help veteran students discover these skills and work towards future career goals. We encourage our veteran students to work with our career counselors to explore any career or personal issues that may impact their career.
Here is how we can help:
We offer assessments to help you discover your skills, interests, and values. We offer support in researching suitable career options and majors. We can help you translate your military experience into civilian terms on a resume and cover letter and in an interview. We can assist you in connecting with employers to find internships and employment. We can help you prepare for graduate or professional school. We can help connect you with helpful services across campus.
Here’s how to get started:
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Visit Career Services as soon as you arrive. Create a profile on Handshake. Meet with us in Drop-in counseling for answers to quick questions: Mondays–Fridays from 11am–4pm. Make an individual appointment with a career counselor to discuss any career related questions. Attend any of our quarterly workshops, and career fairs and check out our videos.
“The US military is arguably the best-trained workforce in the world, and personnel who leave military service have skills that translate to virtually any career.”~Military.com
"Veterans are proven performers. They distinguished themselves in uniform and they distinguish themselves as employees. They will help all of us achieve our missions."
- Former Secretary of Veteran Affairs Eric K. Shinseki
Additional resources: Career Services Veteran Resources
career.sa.ucsb.edu/career-resources/diversity/ veterans
Veteran Resource Center
www.sa.ucsb.edu/veterans/
UCSB Veteran Benefit Services www.finaid.ucsb.edu/veterans
Being Good at Being New Starting Your New Job
Now you’ve been hired and you’re preparing for that first day in your new career. How different could it be from being a student? Very. In college you were paying to play – in a very real sense, you were the customer. On the job, the company is the one paying, not you. Your role has changed from service recipient to service provider. You would be wise to ponder how this fundamental role change frames this new stage of life.
So how can you start to accrue this kind of influence from day one? Tone down the star quality It’s natural to want to impress your co-workers with all of your terrific ideas right away. Resist that impulse. Start by simply doing the job you’ve been assigned to do as well as you can. Ask questions. You’re new and it’s better to get it right the first time. Volunteer. Identify some small accomplishments that won’t ruffle anyone’s feathers – like fixing a small problem that everyone means to fix, but no one ever gets around to. It’s too soon to conquer. Don’t start by challenging the system. Observe how things “really get done.” This is likely to be quite different from what’s spelled out in the policy and training manuals.
Initially, respect is more important than friendship. Get to know your co-workers and their interests. Ask questions. Listen, listen, listen. Refrain from clowning around or spouting off until you know the norms. Pay attention to the grapevine, but don’t contribute to it. Don’t complain. About your boss, your coworkers, your work – anything. Meet as many people as you can, and explore lots of different opportunities and areas of interest. Constantly look for chances to build your experience.
Engage in the highest possible work ethic Arrive early and don’t rush out the door at the end of the day. Volunteer for projects, but don’t neglect assigned work. Keep a positive attitude and an open mind. Perform deliberate acts of kindness. (Ex: Stay late one night to help a coworker on a deadline) Everyone expects to be paid back. Repay kindnesses, lunches, and support for your ideas. Make sure you deliver on every commitment that you make. While this advice seems simple, you may find it challenging to follow. You’ll want to jump in and make close friends to stave off your feelings of insecurity. You’ll want to share all your brilliant ideas because they were so useful in getting you through school. Instead, remember that you’re in unknown territory, and trust that if you follow these rules, you’ll soon accrue the influence you need to be a strong contributor to your organization.
Life After Graduation
There are books written about starting a new job and understanding office politics. Why do I put those two concepts in the same sentence? Because being good at being new is the first step to successfully navigating office politics. Politics is the art of trying to accomplish things within organizations, to influence or empower outcomes.
Build relationships slowly and steadily
Grace Period
There is a one year “grace period” after the last quarter you paid fees where you can access Career Services for FREE! Thereafter, you can still access our services for a nominal charge. Join the Alumni Association for a nice discount. If you plan to reside outside the Santa Barbara area, but still in California, check in with the other UC Career Centers. Many will offer UCSB graduates alumni career services for a fee.
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Alumni Association
Life After Graduation
UCSB graduates in cities across the nation form a solid foundation for UCSB Alumni Association activities. Regional alumni programs serve as a meeting ground for UCSB alumni and friends, providing opportunities for alumni involvement, social interaction, networking, and volunteer service. To receive more information on Alumni programs in your area, call the UCSB Alumni Association at (805) 893-4775 or email chapter.event@ia.ucsb.edu. Membership in a regional program gives you the full benefits of being a member of the UCSB Alumni Association.
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Regional Alumni Programs Bay Area • Bakersfield • Rocky Mountain Los Angeles • National Capital New York • Orange County • Portland Sacramento • San Diego • Santa Barbara Silicon Valley • Ventura
Alumni Association - 1120 University of California, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara, CA 93106-1120 Telephone: (805) 893-2288 Email: ucsbalum@ia.ucsb.edu www.ucsbalum.com/
Connect with Career UCSB Career Services @UCSBcareer www.tinyurl.com/lqku7y3 @ucsbcareer www.ucsbcareerblog.wordpress.com/ ucsbcareer
take the next step
TOWARD AN ADVANCED DEGREE AND STAY IN SANTA BARBARA Pacifica Graduate Institute is an accredited graduate school with two beautiful campuses a few miles south of Santa Barbara. The Institute’s Masters and Doctoral Programs in Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Depth Psychology, the Humanities, and Mythological Studies are informed by the tradition of depth psychology, as pioneered by Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, and other eminent scholars. Pacifica offers many unique advantages: • An academically rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum
Pacifica’s Graduate Degree Programs M.A. in Counseling Psychology Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology M.A./Ph.D. in Depth Psychology with one of these Emphases: Somatic Studies Jungian and Archetypal Studies Community Psychology, Ecopsychology, and Liberation Psychology Ph.D. in Depth Psychology with Emphasis in Psychotherapy M.A./Ph.D. in Mythological Studies M.A. in Engaged Humanities with Emphasis in Depth Psychology For U.S. Department of Education/Gainful Employment information see www.pacifica.edu/GainfulEmployment
• Small, interactive classes led by an accomplished and dedicated faculty • Innovative academic formats that serve the needs of students across the country and around the world • A community of like-minded scholars who celebrate diversity, and foster a spirit of collaboration and open expression • Extensive on-campus resources, including an outstanding Graduate Research Library and Office of Financial Aid Learn more about Pacifica at a One-Day Introduction to Pacifica’s Degree Programs. Held several times a year, this program gives prospective students a comprehensive introduction to the school and its educational features. For details, visit www.pacifica.edu.
Now Accepting Applications for Fall & Spring For more information call 805.969.3626, ext. 305 or visit us online at www. pacifica.edu 249 LAMBERT ROAD, CARPINTERIA, CALIFORNIA 93013
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