While you’re learning about your chosen career is also the perfect time to prepare for your career with actionable steps. Students of all ages should take career advice to heart so that they’re well prepared for when they’ve completed their studies. Learn tips and career advice for students that can dramatically improve your career right from the start.
Choose the Career that Suits Your Strengths
When deciding on a potential career, how do you determine which career is best for you? Choose a career that suits your strengths. Start by determining which academic path is best for you. Our SELC report helps you decide which academic path is the best fit for your unique strengths and challenges. The Academic Fit section gives you an in-depth look into the roles that are most compatible with how you view the world. If you’re already on an academic path that fits you but need help deciding on a career, try our PIC report. This report is designed to give you insight into your career path and how you perform in the workplace. You’ll discover the best fit for your career and future.
Career Advice for Students – Use this Time to Network
Networking isn’t something that should wait until you’re in the workplace. Start to network while you’re still a student. Indeed recommends networking with alumni, professors, and other students while you’re still in school. Take it a step further and reach out to professionals in your future industry online and connect with them on networks like LinkedIn, where you can follow them to learn more about their careers and what they do. Making genuine connections with people can help propel your career further and get you in the door with companies when you’re looking for a job.
Expand Your Skill Sets
While you’re spending your time learning, it’s a great idea to expand your skill sets to include skills that employers love. Spend time learning marketable skills that look good on your resume, such as Excel or Slack, recommends Forbes. If you have a specific industry in mind, spend time obtaining certifications that could enhance your resume in your industry. For example, you could take a Hubspot certification if you’re going into Sales or Marketing. Research which certifications are standard in your industry, and spend time while you’re a student obtaining those marketable skills. Don’t skimp on the soft skills during this time either—soft skills like flexibility and emotional intelligence help to future-proof your career in any industry.
Take an Internship
Take an internship when you can. Internships give you experience in different working environments and work cultures so that you can learn which type of culture and environment you prefer. They’re also an excellent chance to network, according to Balance Careers. Connect with professionals at your internship to learn from them even if you don’t continue to work there once the internship is completed.
Don’t Skip Your Passion Projects
Stay engaged with the projects you’re passionate about. If you’re creative and love to make art, continue to make art and share it with the world. Your side projects provide you with an opportunity to do something that you enjoy, and you can also continue to learn skills while you do them. Forbes suggests creating blogs, videos, or podcasts surrounding your passion to share it with the world. This can give you a connection with others that can expand your career options and opportunities.
Don’t Give Up
Being a student is overwhelming already. Trying to plan for a career while learning as a student can be extra difficult. Stay positive, and don’t give up. You’re resilient; every step that you take now will create a brighter future for you.
