how to get a research job after college

How to Get Research Experience

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Working in a research setting can help make you a competitive medical school applicant and help you to determine if a career in medicine or medical research is right for you

How do I find a research position?

If you’re currently in college, check with your institution’s science or undergraduate research websites for opportunities to assist with faculty research projects. You can also review faculty bio pages and lab websites for more information. Next, reach out to your immediate network: express your interest in assisting with a research project to your science professors, academic advisor, and your pre-health advisor.

Try exchanging ideas with your peers and upper-classmen for advice on research opportunities at your institution. You can also ask peer advisors, resident advisors, or any fellow premedical students for introductions to principal investigators (PIs). You might even try the “Undergrad-Grad-PI” method. This is where you first reach out to undergraduate students in research labs to learn about their responsibilities; they oftentimes are more responsive. Then, reach out to the graduate or post-doc students to learn about the research question being investigated. After this, read the most recent paper or abstract the lab published. Once you complete these steps, you can approach the PI more confidently and more effectively demonstrate your commitment to and understanding of their project.

Your school’s career center or student employment office may know about research job openings, and they can also offer resume help and go over interview tips and techniques. Remember, opportunities may be on or off campus, full- or part-time, paid or unpaid, or part of a summer program. Once you find a position, you can connect with your school’s fellowships or awards office to inquire about research funding opportunities.

If you’ve already graduated, consider looking into open positions. Research hospitals, universities, and biotech companies are always looking for lab technicians or clinical research coordinators (CRC). Job opportunities are typically posted on the career pages of their websites.

When should I begin gaining research experience in college?

Some premedical students begin their research experiences during their first year of college, and others begin research positions after they have already graduated. On average, most students secure a research position junior or senior year. There are three big factors that will impact this:

• Your level of interest in pursuing research. If you are really excited to investigate a question under a mentor, you might find yourself reaching out to professors early and often. Other students may focus on gaining clinical experience, and therefore wait later in their academic career to start research.
• Readiness for the research project. Different PIs will have different expectations for preparation. A research project might require you to first take coursework in basic lab sciences, statistics, or another advanced topic specific to the project. Other PIs may prefer to train you “on-the-job” through their graduate or post-doc students. This will impact when you are ready to join a project.
• Finding the right research project. There is a process of reviewing different PIs and research projects to find the right fit for you. What subject do you want to investigate? Do you want your research project to take place in a lab or non-lab setting? Is there an independent question you want to investigate with the help of a mentor?

When is the best time to look for a position?

According to Kate Stutz, Ph.D., Director of Pre-Health Advising at Brandeis University, if you’re interested a research position during the academic year, the best time to look for positions is at the very beginning of the semester. There also tend to be a lot of research opportunities in the summer, both paid and volunteer, through set programs like the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs). It’s best to start applying for summer research positions in December-February for the upcoming summer. Remember, typically there are more applicants than available spots so get your applications in early. Each undergraduate institution will be different, therefore make sure to connect with your advisors and peers for feedback on when to start looking.

What’s the best way to apply?

The outreach email message that you send to potential research faculty is very important. This message should include a formal introduction of yourself, evidence that you are familiar with their research project(s), and a clear, specific ask. Identify what you hope to contribute to the project. Do you want to clean the glassware or analyze lab findings? Consider attaching your resume as well. Dr. Stutz stresses that networking and persistence are crucial to finding a position. Make sure you’re using all of your network, including your peers and professors, to find open positions. Don’t be afraid to send follow up emails; faculty are very busy and often overlook emails. Sometimes, it can be even more effective to stop by a professor’s office hours to hand deliver your materials and indicate your interest in person.

How should I prepare for an interview?

With any interview, it’s important to make a good impression. Be sure to dress appropriately. Come prepared with a resume. Use your campus career center for advice on proper attire and resume best practices.

Often during interviews, you’ll be asked about your career goals. It’s helpful to be able to speak about the steps you plan to take to meet those goals. Talk about classes you’ve taken, especially upper-level science courses. Speak about your skills, your knowledge of techniques, and the equipment you’ve used throughout your coursework. Be prepared to discuss the lab experiments you’ve completed. If you’ve done any sort of research—even in your coursework—keep track of it. This shows you have experience. Lastly, interviewers often ask candidates if they have any questions. Dr. Stutz suggests asking something that indicates you’ve done your own research into their project. You could ask where they see their research going in the next three years or what challenges they anticipate. You could also ask about expectations for undergraduate researchers; do they expect you to work 20+ hours a week? Full time over the summer? Do they require you to have work study or to sign up for research credits? Asking these questions ahead of time can help you plan ahead and determine if this position is the best fit for you. Check out these  interview resources  for more tips.

Does research experience have to be in a wet lab?

No! Research can be performed in any field or subject. We’ve had successful applicants with research in classics, sociology, history, and policy, as well as applicants with research in biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience. Medical schools value all types of research. Research can take place in a scientific lab that requires advanced devices and procedures to obtain data for analysis. Research can also take place in the humanities or social sciences where participant interviews or surveys are needed to obtain an individual's life perspective. The clinical research field is constantly investigating patient outcomes and how to improve care through clinical trials or analysis of patient data. As a premedical student, consider what question you want to investigate further. Do you want to learn more about how health inequities impact disadvantaged communities in your area, or perhaps you want to know more about the protein channels involved in memory cognition? Once you choose a direction, you can then partner with a research PI for guidance on how to navigate your question. Sierra Perez, Pre-Health Advisor at Brandeis University, shares not to be afraid to get creative with your research question. She has been impressed by the medical school applicants who have created independent questions that address the community needs. “Applicants are recognizing the critical needs of specific populations, such as homelessness, LGBTQ+, veterans, youth with disabilities, etc.,” she stated. “There is also a demand for translational researchers, or individuals who can take complicated bench topics and apply it to the clinical world.”

Is research experience required to be accepted to medical school? 

It depends. Some medical schools are very research focused; they may require a research thesis or have research time built into the curriculum. Other schools are more community or clinically focused; they would rather have an applicant work in a healthcare setting or volunteer at their local soup kitchen than be at the bench moving clear liquids from one test tube to another. Research experience (in whatever discipline) is helpful for developing some of the AAMC Core Competencies , such as critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, scientific reasoning, as well as teamwork and oral communication skills. How much you should engage in research depends on how much you enjoy it once you try it!

The majority of accepted medical school applicants have some form of academic or clinical research at the time they apply. Competence in research has become increasingly important in the medical field to improve patient care outcomes.

You can also review medical school mission statements to see if research is a focus at a particular school. You can read each school’s mission, and the number of accepted students in their most recent class who had research experience, in the  Medical School Admission Requirements . Remember, it’s best to pursue experiences that you’re genuinely interested in, rather than just to check a box, but you may not know if research is for you until you give it a try.  

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How to Find a Strong First Job After College

• Rakshitha Arni Ravishankar

For students from low-income backgrounds, this is especially important.

Aimée Eubanks Davis, CEO, and founder of Braven, believes that a strong, high quality, first job can make all the difference for students of color, especially those from low-income families. To identify these kinds of jobs, focus on these four dimensions.

• The job must align with your interests. Is this something you see yourself doing for a couple of years? Does the work sound interesting? What would a typical day look like?
• It must provide scope for learning and development. If you can’t learn and improve your skills in a role you’re offered, that is a red flag.
• It must pave pathways to promotion. Think if there will be opportunities to grow in the role, industry, and company. Even if you aren’t able to grow within the same company, your experience should prepare you for growth outside that particular company.
• It must help you earn the full dollar. Look at the compensation. Is it fair? Do you have strong benefits, a 401(k) plan, and health insurance? Being able to start at a place that offers you competitive pay is important to continue building wealth — and bridge the income gap for students from low-income backgrounds.

Where your work meets your life. See more from Ascend here .

Aimée Eubanks Davis, founder and CEO of Braven has always been aware of her relative privilege in her community. Growing up in a historically Black neighborhood of Chicago’s South Side, her parents had a flourishing business. Soon, she’d realized that her family was more fortunate than the others in the area. When she was three, her parents bought a property in the area, and that, she believes, was their “stroke of luck.”

• RR Rakshitha Arni Ravishankar is an associate editor at Ascend.

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A Step-By-Step Guide to Finding a Job After College

Your senior year of college can be a stressful time. You’re likely taking harder classes and completing senior projects. But you’re also most likely working, participating in extracurriculars, and attending campus events. Thinking about what to do after you graduate college feels like one more thing you have to work into your busy schedule. You might be uncertain about when you should start looking for a job, how to look for a job, or even what type of job you want. With all this confusion, you can easily become overwhelmed about finding a job after college. But don’t worry; just take the job search process one step at a time.

1. Research jobs and careers that interest you.

If you’re not sure what careers fit your interests, take career assessments such as the PathwayU assessment. PathwayU matches job titles to your profile and shows you specific job listings for those titles. You can also talk to your professors, your academic advisor, and the Center for Career Connections to learn what types of jobs people with your major pursue.

2. Develop a job search strategy.

In order to make the best use of your time, it’s important to develop a job search strategy to determine how you will go about finding a job after college. When creating your job search strategy, you should include a timeline for when you will complete each step of the process. Spend time researching when people in your field are hired. Do companies in your field have hiring cycles? Your professors and other contacts you have in the field will be able to tell you when you should start thinking about applying for jobs. Typically, it’s best to start looking for jobs one to three months before graduation, but every industry is different.

As you plan your job search, Denise Terry, director of the Center for Career Connections at Grace College, says, “Assume the process will take longer than anticipated.” Recognize that finding a job after college can take a while, and be patient. Just because a company hasn’t gotten back to you a couple of weeks after you apply doesn’t mean they aren’t still considering you as a candidate.

3. Network.

Networking doesn’t have to be scary. Jaci Forshtay, Grace College’s career success coordinator, says, “Networking is relationship building.” You can network in a variety of ways, including establishing your online presence, conducting informational interviews, asking for introductions, and exposing yourself to companies in your field.

Establish your online presence to deepen your connections and help employers find you. Focus especially on developing your LinkedIn and Handshake profiles. When you meet someone, you can connect with them on LinkedIn after your introduction to remain connected. You can also use LinkedIn to connect with alumni in your field. Click on the alumni tab of your college’s page on LinkedIn to search for alumni in the fields or locations you’re interested in. 

Likewise, Handshake can help you with finding a job after college. “Handshake is designed for recent graduates,” says Terry. “Companies who list jobs on Handshake aren’t looking for people who have tons of experience; they’re looking for people like you. Make sure that your Handshake profile is up to date so that you can find jobs that fit your interests and skill set.”

You should also spend time networking in person. If you want to learn more about what your job will look like, conduct informational interviews with people in fields that interest you. If you don’t know who to ask, start by asking a professor to connect you. You can ask questions such as:

• What does a typical day look like?
• What skills are required for this job?
• What do you like about your job?
• What do you wish someone had told you sooner?

Finally, expose yourself to companies in your industry. If your college has a Center for Career Connections , take advantage of their events to help you network with companies. Career fairs, mock interviews, and the etiquette dinner can help you discover companies you might want to work for. You just might discover job options you never considered before.

4. Polish your resume and cover letter.

“Your resume is the culmination of your educational journey,” says Terry. “You should put lots of thought and creativity into it.” Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job posting you are applying for. Your resume and cover letter should demonstrate that you understand the company and its needs. As you highlight your relevant experiences and accomplishments, think about what makes your experiences unique and how you have gone above and beyond.

Likewise, your cover letter should be creative. It should be cohesive with your resume, but expand on the experiences you include in your resume. Don’t be redundant! Instead, focus on sharing specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated your skills.

5. Look for jobs.

You can look for jobs on LinkedIn , Handshake , and Indeed . However,  job openings rarely get posted on job search platforms. If you know of a company you want to work for, contact them directly to inquire about job openings. Make sure you also ask your connections about job opportunities instead of just applying for jobs online.

Also, be open to working temporary jobs. Working a temporary job or completing an internship can help you gain experience and get your foot in the door at a company, which might lead to a full-time job.

Forshtay advises, “Look at several jobs and companies to explore your options instead of putting all your eggs in one basket.” 

“Be open to diverse opportunities,” Terry adds. “Don’t limit your options to your field.” Working a job that’s not in your field can open your eyes to other jobs you hadn’t considered. You might not get your dream job right out of college, but an entry-level position could lead to a promotion to the job of your dreams.

When you find jobs that interest you, apply. If you find a job that sounds like your dream job but you can’t check every box on the list of applicant requirements, it’s still okay to apply! Maybe you won’t get the job, but sometimes students land their dream job right out of college. You won’t know unless you apply!

7. Interview.

It’s important to do your research before your job interview. Understand the skills and duties required for the job and learn about the company so that you can highlight relevant skills and prepare for the types of questions you might be asked during the interview. You can even practice interviews by going to your school’s Center for Career Connections , attending a Mock Interview Event , or having a friend ask you questions.

Make sure to also prepare questions for the interviewer. For example, you could ask them about day-to-day responsibilities, the characteristics they look for in employees, the most challenging aspect of the job, or what they enjoy about the job.

During the interview, tell stories about your previous experiences. “Stories make people compelling and memorable,” says Terry. When telling stories, focus on the problem, the action you took, and the results. This outline demonstrates your skills and shows the employer you can tackle obstacles.

8. Celebrate your success.

Congratulations! You’ve landed a job! All your hard work in college and the job search process has paid off. Now it’s time to gather your closest family and friends to celebrate your success in finding a job after college.

As you finish your senior year, thinking about finding a job after college may seem daunting, but if you follow these eight steps, the job search process will be more manageable. 

If you need extra guidance in figuring out what to do after you graduate college, learn how the Center for Career Connections can help you with the job search process and read about some of Grace College’s alumni who have had success in their careers .

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Finding an Undergraduate Research Position

Getting research experience during your time as an undergraduate can aid in your pursuit for graduate school or certain career opportunities. There are many opportunities available to conduct research alongside faculty at Columbia or other universities and research institutes.

What types of research opportunities are available to me?

You can gain research experience by volunteering at university research institutes, medical centers, or hospitals. Volunteer positions typically allow for the greatest flexibility in commitment and experience level.

Certain majors allow students to pursue independent research projects during the semester and earn between 1 and 4 course credits. Usually, a proposal must be submitted to the department and the student must complete a culminating project like a presentation or report. Discuss with your department administrator prior to course registration.

Paid Research Assistantships

You may work alongside a Columbia faculty member as a paid research assistant. These positions are competitive and often require some prior exposure to research through coursework or other experiences.

Funded Programs

Funded programs are competitive programs that typically take place over the summer at universities around the country. Students are usually required to work full time (40–50 hours per week) on independent projects under the guidance of a research scientist in exchange for a stipend. Some examples are the  Amgen Scholars Program and  Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) , which are offered through Columbia, as well as the  National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) .

Fellowships

Fellowships provide funds for students to pursue independent research or to work as research assistants on ongoing laboratory projects over the summer at a location of their choice. For example, the Class of 1939 Summer Research Fellowship and the Deresiewicz Summer Research Fellowship provide funding for undergraduates to do independent research.

Senior thesis

Many departments offer the opportunity to research and write a senior thesis. This is typically a year-long independent project developed with the guidance of a faculty mentor. Some departments offer funding opportunities to kickstart your research the summer before senior year. Check your department website for more information about writing a senior thesis in your field.

How do I decide what research area I should pursue?

Ask yourself “what appeals to me”.

One of the first questions to ask yourself is: What broad, fundamental research question appeals to me? Think about your favorite courses, subjects, and publications. Choose and develop research interests that genuinely spark your intellectual curiosity. 

Do your research

To find inspiration, review Columbia’s Centers and Institutes website to search the broad spectrum of research areas supported on campus. Additionally, the websites for individual majors and academic departments usually have a list of professors’ research backgrounds, interests, and current projects.

Talk to others

Talk to your classmates, professors, teaching assistants, advisers, and mentors to get advice and help with brainstorming research areas of interest. Meet with an Undergraduate Research & Fellowships adviser to discuss how to get started and look for opportunities. If you’re a Columbia College student interested in science research, you can also connect with one of the advisors in the Undergraduate Research & Fellowships Office.

How do I find a research position?

There are several ways to find and apply to research opportunities. It’s best to use a variety of methods in your search. 

Search online databases

Use Columbia online databases such as the  Undergraduate Research Opportunities portal and the SEAS  Student Research Involvement Program portal. LionSHARE also shares some on-campus and off-campus research positions. Premed students should use resources like the  Clinical and Research Opportunities page and the  Summer Programs page, for GS, or the Extracurricular/Summer Options page, for Columbia College or SEAS students.

Contact professors doing research that interests you

Identify faculty members pursuing research projects in line with your interests. Find their contact information on their department webpages or in the Columbia directory. Send them a professional email , succinctly outlining your research interests and skills, and expressing your interest in serving as a research assistant. You can also stop by professors’ office hours to discuss their research and express your interest in person.

Apply to a funded program

Apply to Columbia-sponsored programs such as the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) , Amgen Scholars Program ,  Kluge Fellows Summer Research Program ,  Laidlaw Scholars Program , or Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship . Also, check out external opportunities through the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) website.

Seek a fellowship opportunity

Look for fellowship opportunities both through Columbia and external sites. Search the Undergraduate Research and Fellowships database or the School of General Studies fellowships database for opportunities.

Discover Columbia’s many research institutes

Review the websites of Columbia research institutes and affiliated research centers , including the The Earth Institute , Weatherhead East Asian Institute , and Institute for Social and Economic Research and Policy . They often list research and fellowship opportunities. The Data Science Institute hosts an undergraduate computer and data science research fair during the fall semester.

Browse Departmental Research Opportunities and resources

Review the list of research opportunities and resources in academic departments on the Undergraduate Research and Fellowships website.

Subscribe to listservs

Subscribe to listservs like the prehealth, prelaw, and prebusiness emails to receive daily alerts of opportunities.

What materials do I need to apply?

To apply, you may need to submit the following documents as part of your application. 

• Resume: Most opportunities will ask you to submit a resume detailing previous research experience, project work, and related coursework.
• Letters of recommendation: Some fellowship and research programs require letters of recommendation. Consider asking current and former professors, teaching assistants, advising deans, and supervisors who can speak to your abilities and strengths. Be sure to give them plenty of time to write the letter.
• Statement of purpose or cover letter:  Some fellowships and research programs require a statement of purpose or cover letter describing your research interests, professional goals, and what skills and experiences you have to offer to the program.

You can find additional resources on applications through Undergraduate Research and Fellowships, including through their events and advising resources.

We’re here to help! Get your resume, cover letter, or statement of purpose reviewed by a CCE career counselor during Quick Questions or a 30-minute counseling appointment .

Related Resources

Creating an undergraduate cv.

Your curriculum vitae (CV) is a representation of your scholarly identity and trajectory in your field.

A CV is used to apply to research roles or other academic positions....

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• Dear Life Kit
• Life Skills

How to get a job after college

Elissa Nadworny

"What are you going to do after you graduate?" Yes, we know, it's the worst question.

Even the less-specific questions — What are your strengths? What are your passions? — can be daunting.

But finding a job after college — or just finding a new job or changing your career — doesn't have to be scary. This shift can actually be exciting.

These tips will help you reflect on your story: what you like, what you've done so far and what you need to do to get a job — and maybe even a career.

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , or sign up for our newsletter .

Start early

Most campuses have a career service office staffed with advisers to help you. But so many students wait until their junior or senior year to wander in. Don't wait!

What you decide to do professionally can be completely different from what you studied in college, so thinking about your career early in college can allow you to meander a bit, to ask yourself, "What do I like? What brings me joy?"

"If you're just starting to examine those questions 60 days before graduation, that's a pretty rapid timeline to cover a lot of ground," says Mark Peltz, head of the career center at Grinnell College, in Iowa.

Perhaps you're now thinking, "Oh, snap! I'm too late!" — but don't worry. It's better now than never. You're reading this story, aren't you? You're already on your way.

Feeling Lots Of ... Feelings? Journaling Can Help

Study yourself, using your own life as data.

You don't have to guess when it comes to what you enjoy: Observe yourself and gather insights.

Don't just sit on the couch and think about yourself. Go watch yourself actually do stuff, says Dave Evans, a Stanford University lecturer and co-author of the book Designing Your Life . He recommends making a " good-time journal " — a daily record of all your activities, annotated with notes on how engaging each was and whether it gave you energy or drained you. This becomes the data that informs what you like to do, and the insights you glean go far beyond the subjects you've liked in school.

You can do this log more than once: when you have a heavy course load, between semesters, during a summer job or an unsatisfying job you're stuck in. Figuring out what you want to do is an ever-evolving process.

6 tips for making a career change, from someone who has done it

Explore where your interests intersect with job options.

Now that you know more about you, turn your focus outward to discover and learn about jobs out in the world.

Don't stop at reading about them — go try out your interests through job shadowing, a lecture, a small project or a hands-on class. Instead of crafting a to-do list, Peltz encourages students to develop a "try stuff" list to test their ideas, gather more info and clarify what they want to do.

How to tell a captivating story — from a wedding toast to a job interview

Be strategic as you tell your story.

Even a part-time job in retail, a volunteer post or a club membership can translate into real skills such as problem solving, leading a team and working with customers.

"You have more experience than you think, but it's about reframing that in the right language," Stacey Harris told NPR in 2019, when she was with Year Up, a program that helps get community college students ready for internships and careers .

Another important way to tell your story is the elevator pitch — a mini-story that tells who you are and what you want to do (in the time it takes to ride from one floor to another). Your pitch should include your name, your history and your goals. Practice telling this story, maybe to a friend or family member, until it becomes natural.

"A couple of my students have actually hopped into an elevator with me just to practice their elevator pitch as if I was a stranger," Harris says.

It can be a little weird to talk about yourself. Perhaps you're thinking, "Who am I? I don't have a story!" But everyone has a story — and more importantly, most humans love hearing stories.

The Right Mentor Can Change Your Career. Here's How to Find One

Look at who is doing interesting work. reach out.

Take your research to the next level: Find people in the world doing interesting things, and do as many informational interviews with them as you can. These are informal conversations in which you ask people about their jobs and how they arrived at them.

These interviews might seem scary, but keep in mind that people love to talk about themselves and what they're doing — and they also love to help.

"You're not asking them for money. You're not asking them for a job. You're asking for the story," explains Evans. "If you're genuinely interested, if you can bring genuine curiosity, go for it."

Some things to keep in mind when reaching out: Be specific. You don't want to blanket-email a bunch of people just because you can. Think about what you're trying to get from each person you talk to: Is it the path to where they are now? Is it information about a posted job?

Once you get one interview, Evans says, go out and talk to more people. One easy way to do this is to make your last question, "Who else should I talk to?"

After you've taken up other folks' time, it's best to send a thank-you note. Handwritten is lovely but not necessary; an email will work too.

Leadership At Work Is An Art Form. Here's How To Practice It.

Study up on business etiquette.

Different workplaces have different rules. Since you won't know those nuances until you spend time in the office, it's best to proceed with caution. Make sure your social media channels are public-ready, and polish your email skills. Here are some of Harris' tips:

• Make sure you have a professional email address — say goodbye to Bubblegum123.
• Craft an email subject line carefully: Write a short summary of what's in the email.
• Begin the message with a greeting.
• End with a signature, and include a way to reach you.
• Beware of spelling errors, and capitalize properly.

Cast a wide net

During the coronavirus pandemic, landing a position might take longer than you expect. "Don't just wait on one employer," Kamla Charles told NPR in 2019, when she was a career counselor at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida. Send out multiple résumés, and keep a log of all your outreach to help you stay organized.

And remember, she says: "Your career is constantly up for negotiation. So if you try something and it doesn't work, that's fine. Take what you've learned and move on to the next one."

The podcast portion of this episode was produced by Sylvie Douglis . This page and episode were originally published in 2019.

We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected] .

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• Job-Search Tips for Recent...

Job-Search Tips for Recent College Grads

7 min read · Updated on April 05, 2022

If you're a recent college grad and haven't landed your first entry-level job yet, don't panic.

College graduation often comes with a mixed bag of emotions. On one hand, you're incredibly excited to close this chapter and move on to the next in the “real world.” But on the other hand, you know this major change comes with a lot of uncertainty — and with that, anxiety. This is especially true if you find yourself unemployed and still searching for an entry-level job.

While some college graduates look forward to one last summer without any 'real' responsibilities , many others feel the pressure to get a job out of college and move out on their own as soon as possible.

If you find yourself itching to start your career, here's some good news. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate remains low , at 3.7 percent, amid a sharp jump in the size of the labor force to its highest level ever.

Below are some job-search tips to help you land your first entry-level job after college graduation.

Figure out your next move

Start by giving your career goals and ideal dream job some serious thought. You don't have to map out your entire career path — in fact, I recommend that you use these first few years after college to explore different fields and types of organizations to discover what's best for you before committing to any long-term career goals — but you need to narrow down your search to some degree.

For instance, is there a particular industry or company that especially interests you? While it's unrealistic to assume your first entry-level job after college graduation will be your 'dream job,' it's not unreasonable to target jobs at companies that are in your dream industry. 

Related: What to Expect From Your First Job out of College

Come up with a job-search game plan

As French writer, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, once said, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” Simply saying “I want a job” won't help you accomplish your career goals. You need to make a solid plan to keep your job search on track. For instance, once your personal branding materials are in order, make a goal for the number of job applications and networking activities you'll complete each week.

Click on the following link to download my free job-search action plan to jumpstart your job search and keep your momentum going.  

Don't be afraid to intern

If you're having trouble breaking into your desired field, be willing to pursue an administrative or customer support role, or even an internship, to get your foot in the door. Many “ entry-level ” jobs today require one or more years of relevant experience. If you didn't intern during college to gain the prerequisite experience, you are at a disadvantage when competing for an entry-level job.  

Target internships that offer part-time hours or a flexible schedule so you can build up your resume with relevant experience and still have time to take on other work to pay the bills. It's a lot easier to land an entry-level job within your desired industry once you've gained some relevant internship experience and have begun to build a strong professional network in that field. Plus, internships can turn into full-time jobs if you play your cards right.

Update your college resume

If you answered these important job search questions before applying for an entry-level position, but your job applications are still greeted with radio silence, then your college resume may be to blame.

As an entry-level job seeker, your resume is typically one page long, though this page-length limit is no longer mandatory . Remove any references to your high school career and focus on highlighting your best selling points, such as your education, leadership skills, internship experience, and any awards you achieved during your college career. 

Click on the following link for an excellent entry-level resume example for a recent college grad .

Then, request a free resume review from TopResume to receive some expert and objective feedback on your post-college resume.

Clean up your social media habits

According to a recent Jobvite Recruiter Nation study, "social sleuthing" has become a standard recruiting practice. When recruiters go digging on social media, will their findings help or hurt your chances of landing the job? Make sure your online presence isn't sabotaging your job search by auditing your online brand to see if your social media profiles are unintentionally raising red flags for employers.

If you have any personal social media accounts you don't want employers to associate with your candidacy, now's the time to increase the security settings and change the usernames to a nickname so you're confident your private accounts are well-hidden from recruiters. Also, set up a professional LinkedIn profile to advertise your candidacy to employers.

For more job tips to ensure your online brand supports your job-search efforts, download my free personal branding checklist .

Network like it's your job (because it is)

Studies find that you're 10 times more likely to land a job when your application is accompanied by an employee referral. However, you can't get those coveted references without networking. Make it your mission to become an active networker.

Build a valuable professional network by getting involved in your alma mater's alumni events , joining relevant LinkedIn groups online and finding face-to-face networking opportunities through relevant Meetup groups, professional association , and trade shows and conferences .

Informational interviews will become your best friends. As you grow your network and discover new people who work in a field, industry, or company that interests you, reach out to them to set up an informational interview that will allow you to learn how they got to where they are in their careers and what you can do to get your foot in the door. This article by Danny Rubin will help you craft the perfect networking email for such requests.

Take advantage of free job-search tools

The resources listed below are all free job-search tools that can help you during each stage of your job hunt.

• Exploring Career Paths: If you're struggling to narrow the focus of your job search, do a little research into different career paths with some help from Firsthand and The Muse .
• Research: CareerBliss and Glassdoor offer information on interviewing, pay, perks, and corporate culture at various companies. Hoovers provides company, industry, and market information, which can be very useful when you're developing your target company list .
• Salary: Prepare for upcoming negotiations by researching and comparing average salaries for your target job with PayScale and Salary.com . I also recommend reading this free PDF version of Jack Chapman's book, “How to Make $1000 a Minute,” to help you know exactly how to handle those dreaded salary interview questions.
• Networking:  Award-winning author and former television news journalist, Danny Rubin, has a great website  with tons of useful advice for entry-level professionals. I recommend checking out his book, “ Wait, How Do I Write This Email? ”, for loads of email templates. I'm also a fan of FindSpark, a community dedicated to setting up every young professional for career success. In addition to your usual job-search tools, FindSpark puts together a bunch of in-person networking events for interns and recent college grads.

Also, don't forget about your alma mater's Career Services department and alumni services. They often offer free job-search tools and services to help you find an entry-level job. Click on the following link for more free job-search tools every job seeker can use.

Another free job-search tool? TopResume's free resume critique. Submit yours today to find out where you stand.

Recommended Reading: 

• What to Do When Your New Job Isn't Your Dream Job
• 6 Ways to Rock Your First Entry-Level Job After Graduation
• Webinar: How to Write a Post-College Resume

Related Articles:

7 Signs Your Resume is Making You Look Old

Don't “Snowplow” Your Kids' Job Search — Set Them Up for Success Instead

8 Tips to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market

See how your resume stacks up.

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What to Do If You Can’t Find a Job After College

If you are a recent college graduate, many people you know must have asked you about your plans after graduation. It may seem like simple small talk, but this question stresses out a lot of college students. In 2022, getting a job after college can be difficult, especially in your field of study. Thankfully, in this article, we will tell you how to find a job after college.

Even though you know the right path to get a job, you might wonder what to do if you can’t find a job after college. Continue reading this article to understand how to find high-paying jobs without experience .

Find your bootcamp match

Why is it so hard to get a job after college.

From highly competitive job candidates to unreachable professional experience requirements, there are a lot of factors that make it hard to find a job after graduation. In fact, in 2019 only 52 percent of students reported that they were “somewhat confident” about finding a desirable job after college graduation. College graduates may find it difficult to transition from the college experience into the professional working world. In addition, they often lack a solid professional network and may not understand successful job search strategies. Students’ interview skills may have also been neglected during their studies. All of these factors can make it difficult to impress prospective employers after graduation.

Reasons Why College Graduates Struggle to Find a Job

• Little work experience. Companies always prefer experienced talent and candidates that understand the fundamentals of the industry. However, college degrees sometimes may not offer hands-on experience, which results in a poor employment rate. An internship experience or gaining relevant skills through bootcamps can significantly increase your chances of getting a job.
• Few skills. Companies around the world are looking for skilled candidates who have technical skills and interpersonal skills alike. However, many college courses don’t necessarily teach job-ready skills.
• Lack of preparation. College grads often aren’t properly prepared when they go through their first round of interviews. You need to research the kind of job you want and the skills you need to do that job so you know how to present yourself.
• No networking. Networking plays a crucial role in finding jobs. A lack of networking and social skills may result in the loss of incredible job opportunities. Therefore, it is crucial to attend networking events.
• Uncertainty about their career path. College students often have a hard time choosing their major. Even if they receive a degree in a particular major, they might not be very interested in it. This leads to college graduates getting lost in the sea of job postings without determining what they are best suited for.
• Competitive job market. Despite an excellent academic career and a college degree from a reputed college, many students struggle to find jobs due to high competition amongst qualified candidates. The population of college degree holders has been steadily increasing over the years. As such, job candidates now need more than a college education to set themselves up as attractive candidates.

How Do I Find a Job After College?

To find a job after college, the first thing you need to do is market research. Make a list of all the industries you would like to work in and compare their job outlooks. Also, research the top in-demand careers you should consider.

Finding a job is difficult for college graduates, but not impossible. With the proper preparation and some knowledge of the current job market, you can get a high-paying job. Below, we have listed some tips to help you get started in the job search process.

Getting a Job After College: A Complete Guide

Job seekers can make many mistakes that can stop them from finding a good job. What students need to do is plan thoroughly and strategically. We have listed some job search tips to help recent graduates and current students improve their chances of getting hired.

1. Prepare to Enter the Workforce

The professional world will likely be drastically different than your college experience. As such, you may need to put some effort into presenting yourself more professionally. This may include getting suitable interview attire or even changing the nature of your online presence. According to a 2017 survey by CareerBuilder, 70 percent of employers evaluate candidates through social media. As this percentage has likely increased in the last few years, it is crucial to make sure your social media feeds are representing you appropriately.

2. Start Networking

Students often neglect the power of alumni networking programs. However, college alumni can help you understand the process of getting a job after graduation. You can also ask them about the common mistakes most candidates make while applying for a job. In addition, former students may be willing to refer you to their companies.

You can also begin networking within your industry through relevant professional organizations as well as platforms such as LinkedIn. Who knows, you might be able to connect with your future employer. Networking opens many doors in the professional world.

3. Gain Experience

There are multiple ways to gain experience while you are in college or after you graduate. For example, an internship position or even volunteer opportunities can be great if you are just starting out in your field. You can also look for an entry-level position.

Another way is to sharpen your skills by working as a freelancer. While you might not be able to work as a freelancer for all roles, there are some roles you can explore. These include graphic designers, content writers, software developers, and product managers. You can take on small, simple projects to begin building your portfolio.

4. Do Market Research

Once you gain a little experience, you need to understand the outlook of the job market. It is helpful to understand the growth and future opportunities an industry holds for you before you commit to it.

You can talk to your subject professors and mentors to understand the best way forward. You can also speak to a career counselor or visit college career centers to explore the right career path for you. Moreover, you should also keep up with the latest industry news to understand the job market.

5. Develop Relevant Skills

A growing number of employers are looking for skilled candidates who are up for a new challenge every day. In-demand soft and hard skills can help students stand out. According to Monster’s Future of Work global report , more than half of employers have a hard time finding candidates with the right skills. Research the most in-demand skills in your industry and work hard to develop them.

6. Build a Portfolio

You can create a work portfolio while you gain experience and skills. A work portfolio is a great way to show your skills and work experience in an organized manner. It can help employers look at your previous work and assess your skills. While a resume only lists down your career history, a portfolio can give an in-depth detail of how you can benefit an organization.

7. Create a Solid Resume

Gaining skills and experience alone won’t help you get a job. It is equally important to present your aptitude in your resume. Students will have to write a fantastic resume that shows their achievements and strengths. It can help you make an excellent first impression with your employer. On the other hand, a bad resume will make sure that your job application gets tossed out right away.

8. Prepare For Interviews

An interview is a make-or-break moment that decides whether you will get the job. You have to show your potential employer that you are the perfect fit for their company at this stage. To prepare for the interview, start researching the most common questions. Also, learn how to answer tough interview questions by spending time in mock interviews with your friends or family.

9. Frequently Check Job Openings

Every company has a different hiring schedule. So, it is a good idea to develop a habit of checking job openings online frequently. Professional social networking sites like LinkedIn can help you stay updated about recent job openings. You can even set up a notification alert on many job sites to know about a vacancy as soon as it is posted.

10. Sign Up For Job Search Websites

Sign up for job search websites like Indeed or Glassdoor as early as possible. These websites have a simple user face that allows job seekers to learn about the jobs they’d like. Once you find a job that you are interested in, then start applying.

What to Do If You Can’t Find a Job After College

The evolving Internet age has transformed every industry and created an increasing demand for people who possess technical skills. If you have already applied to many job vacancies and still don’t hear back from them, it’s time to sharpen your skillset. You can consider enrolling in specialized courses to work on upskilling. Alternatively, you can also attend a coding bootcamp and explore the ample opportunities the tech industry has in store for you.

Getting a Job After College FAQ

To get a job after college with no experience you need to make sure you ace your interview. On the other hand, working as a web developer, real estate agent, and pharmacy technician are among the many jobs that pay well but require no experience. You can start with entry-level positions and learn the necessary skill set to master the job.

Some of the top careers to consider in 2022 include working as a dentist, advertising manager, financial manager, software developer, or medical and health services manager.

Yes, it is pretty normal to remain unemployed after college. However, students should not waste time waiting for a job. You can make the most of this time by enrolling in an upskilling program and strengthening your profile.

You should consider several companies while looking for a job after college. Every company has a different hiring process. Some companies may get back to you in 48 hours, while the others may take three months. As such, it is best to cast your net wide and apply to different types of jobs.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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How to Find a Job After College: The Ultimate Guide

Published: May 10, 2022

College graduation is just around the corner, which means it’s almost speech season. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good graduation speech and all the platitudes that come along with it, but very few of them give guidance on how to find a job after college. 

We want to help. At HubSpot, we’re lucky enough to interview and hire a lot of recent graduates, so I’ve rounded up some advice below based on interviews, applications , and feedback we hear from hiring managers, recruiters, and job candidates alike. And for free templates and tools you can use to put the advice below into practice download this post's complementary guide here.

But before we dive into how to find a job after college, let’s first shed some light on why the job searching process is so difficult for college graduates. 

Why is it hard to find a job after college?

One of the leading factors that make finding a job after college difficult is fierce competition. According to Statista, the percentage of the U.S. population that have a 4-year college degree has steadily increased since the 1940s. As of 2020, 38.3% of women and 36.7% of men have completed four years of college or more. With college degrees becoming more and more common, graduates are finding it difficult to stand out to employers. The competition can be even more intense for college students who either did not complete an internship in their field studies while pursuing their education.  With that said, here is some advice to make finding a job after college less daunting. 

12 Tips for Finding a Job After College

1. narrow down your search..

I asked a recent college graduate how many applications he submitted to companies each week as part of his job search. His response was, “As many as I need to get my parents off my back.”

Unfortunately, sending out countless applications isn’t strategic and is typically unsuccessful because:

• It’s hard to stick out from the pack of other applicants when you’re trying to be all things to all people. 
• You can’t properly research and follow up with hundreds of job applications. 
• Juggling too many applications can increase the likelihood of spelling mistakes, misstating goals, or missing scheduled phone screens. 

Instead, I recommend doing enough homework to reasonably target 10-12 companies. This way you’ll have the time and energy to give each application the attention necessary to ensure they’re filled out properly. And you’ll be able to better hone in on the unique skills you’d bring to the job and really stand out to employers. If you've n ever written a resume before, you can learn how to write a resume with no experience  here .

2. Talk to 10 people about their jobs.

I recommend scheduling a 30-minute, well-organized and orchestrated phone interview with someone familiar with the company or its field.  

Ask a friend who graduated recently, a neighbor from your hometown, or check in with your career services office to ask for some input. If your immediate network isn’t a great resource, get to work on LinkedIn -- identify individuals with job titles that interest you and ask if they would be open to a quick conversation.

Regardless of the field you choose, you are going to spend a lot of time at work, so it’s worth investing the time beforehand to understand what roles will actually be like after you secure the job.

3. Reach out to entry level employees.

You’ll want to focus on selecting people at or close to entry level jobs as they’ll give a much more realistic sense of what your day would be like and what skills you would need to succeed. This step can help you significantly refine your search and align your applications accordingly. 

While it may be tempting to reach out to senior leaders, it would be better to wait until after you have clear context on the types of roles you’re most interested in pursuing.

4. Ask Good Questions. 

Focus on asking questions about what their average day looks like:

• What do they work on?
• Are they mostly working alone at a computer or in meetings with other people?
• How (if at all) do they interact with their boss?
• What’s the culture at their organization like?
• What do they like about it and what do they wish they could change?
• What’s the most important skill to succeed in the job they have, and why?

These types of questions are specific and give you a real sense for what it’s like to actually do a given job.

Active listening can be the single most effective tool in identifying the right company and role for your skill set.

Ask your professors and advisors if they know alumni working at companies where you could be a good fit. Ask your previous employers for feedback on what you’re best at and what you can do better. The answers to these questions should help inform your job search, but you need to actively listen to make their advice actionable.

Moreover, take good notes during these conversations. I’d recommend creating a Google doc with:

• The name of the person you’re talking with
• The company they work for
• Key takeaways from the call

After these conversations, make clear follow-ups and carve out time after every informational conversation to thank the person who gave you their time.

6. Identify three job tracks and create a playbook for each one.

After your phone calls and interviews help you identify a few roles that really interest you, visit the career site for a few of the companies in your preferred geography that offer the roles you’re seeking. Take note of the specific skills the position demands. 

Many applicants skip this step entirely, but it’s imperative to understand what the hiring managers are seeking and what experience is most relevant to the career paths you’re targeting.

Recognizing that the best hiring managers can screen for potential and skill, you need to craft a compelling narrative for why you are positioned to succeed in a role. Does that mean you need to check every single box? Absolutely not, but you do need a compelling story for why you are uniquely suited to the position.

Far too many people send the same resume for multiple positions that require very different skills and experiences. 

To avoid this, my recommendation is to fill in the blanks of this sentence before you start on a resume or cover letter: “I would be a great (_______________) because I have _________, ________, and _______ skills as evidenced by my work with ___________ and _____________." 

This may seem elementary, but when you’re in the thick of a job search it’s easy to get lazy and ship the same materials to everyone. Creating a clear, concise summary of why you are positioned to succeed in a given role is a great foundation for the materials you’ll create next before applying.

7. Craft compelling application materials that tell your story.

Far too many people treat creating their resume, cover letter, and any other necessary application materials as a chore to be completed or a checklist to be generated. In reality, recruiters and hiring managers scan through hundreds if not thousands of resumes on a weekly basis, so make their lives easier by creating a truly compelling narrative on your interest in the role. 

Telling a great story doesn’t mean filling every square inch of space on a page. In fact, the best resumes and cover letters use spacing, italics, and bold text to make the materials more readily digestible and enjoyable to read for the hiring manager.

When it comes to crafting your narrative for applications, don’t underestimate the role of activities outside of work: You don’t need a formal internship or summer job to show that you’re interested in and capable of blogging, or a seasoned job in sales to show that you’re passionate about engaging people.

Did you blog for your college admissions office to help recruit incoming students? You should include that experience if you’re applying for a marketing, recruiting, or human resources position.

Did you use iMovie to create videos for your university’s theater program? Learn enough code to launch a website for your parents’ restaurant? If you’re applying for any role in technical support, design, or engineering, incorporate it.

Far too many people underestimate the role activities outside the classroom can play in demonstrating your potential and drive, so don’t overlook these experiences when you’re crafting your story.

8. Google yourself.

Most hiring managers will run a quick Google search before reaching out to you for a phone screen, so Google yourself before you start applying for jobs and ask yourself what story your online presence tells. If it doesn’t align with the narrative you’re using in your job applications, invest the time and energy to change it. 

Your online presence should reflect your personal and professional interests, and with the proliferation of free publishing forums (from LinkedIn to Medium to About.me ), you have no excuse not to put them to work on your behalf in the job search process.

For example, let’s say you are interested in applying to Wistia , an online video hosting platform and one of our neighboring companies here in Boston. How could you convey a passion for video if you’re not an editor, producer, or director? 

You could share remarkable videos you see online as a consumer, or blog about how video marketing can influence the sales process. You can also incorporate your previous experience with video on your LinkedIn profile, or tweet articles covering recent brand video launches, among other things.

Be honest about what your current digital footprint says about your candidacy, and then invest some time and energy to change it from a liability to an asset before you start sending your resume out.

9. Apply thoughtfully.

Before you hit submit, triple-check everything for spelling, syntax, and grammar. Everyone knows someone with a particularly good eye for catching mistakes -- pay them in lunch or coffee to help you do a final check of your materials before you ship them. Don’t let a spelling or grammatical mistake be the reason you don’t land a job. 

Also, be sure that you have the right details in the right applications. Create separate folders on your computer for each company so that you don’t proudly state how excited you are to work at Company X when your application is for Company Y.

Once you hit submit, you’re not done yet. I recommend creating a Google spreadsheet with tabs for each of the job types you’re applying for, along with the name of the company you applied to, the date you applied, a link to the job on the careers site (so you can reference it easily if asked down the line), as well as the name of the hiring manager or recruiter if available.

This quick exercise makes follow-up a breeze. If you haven’t heard back within a week, sending an email to your contact to politely check in and ask if there is anything you can do to support your candidacy is a great way to show interest without being overbearing. 

Logging everything (including return phone calls, informational screens, and rejection emails alike) in one document will also minimize embarrassing gaffes such as applying for multiple positions at the same company or missing a scheduled informational interview. Plus, having a centralized location means it'll be much easier for you to react if something unexpected comes up, such as if a hiring manager calls you to discuss the role in depth.

10. Respect the process.

Treat every element of the entire candidate experience like a formal interview. A recruiter calling you to role-play what it’s like to work on our services team? That’s part of the job audition. The emails the hiring manager sends you with details on what to expect in the interview? Your response and timeliness are part of the interview process as well.  

If you’re taking a phone call from the company, find a quiet place to talk, answer the phone appropriately, and thank the hiring manager or recruiting coordinator for making the time to connect with you.

Part of respecting the process is really doing your homework. Here’s a checklist to consider when you're doing your research:

• Can you describe, clearly and concisely, what the company does to make money and the problem they are solving in the market?
• Have you visited their leadership page to understand the backgrounds of people running the company and how the organization is organized?
• Did you check out interview questions along with recent candidate experience reviews on Glassdoor to check out what people are saying about the company so you can ask better questions when you meet with current employees?
• Can you reference any recent news the company announced on its company news page, investor relations site, or blog?
• Have you followed the company on one or more social media channels so you can see how the organization positions itself in the market?
• If you’re lucky enough to get an interview, have you checked out the LinkedIn profiles of everyone you’re meeting with so you know their role and tenure at the company?

It's important to treat every interaction with the company and its hiring team with the highest degree of professionalism and consideration. Visiting a company’s website on the train en route to the interview does not constitute research. 

If you expect an organization to invest in you, invest two hours to properly understand its products, people, and value proposition so you can tailor your approach and responses accordingly.

11. Pass the receptionist test with flying colors.

No one wants to work with a jerk, and if you’re rude or dismissive of the person who greets you upon arrival for an interview, chances are you’re not the type of person I want to be in the trenches with on a daily basis. Plus, receptionists usually have the ear of top executives, so if you underestimate them, it could cost you.

Treat everyone you interact with at the company as though they are your interviewer. People don’t want to work with anyone who can’t make time for general pleasantries. 

In fact, when the co-founder of Warby Parker, Neil Blumenthal, appeared on The Growth Show , he said their entire organization screens heavily for empathy and humility in the hiring process. As Blumenthal correctly pointed out, you spend most of your waking life with coworkers, so hiring people who are jerks just creates "culture debt" — a huge price that your organization has to repay for years to come.

So be nice and gracious to everyone you meet: It will pay off for many years to come.

12. Know how to accept and negotiate an offer.

If you make it through the interview experience and are lucky enough to be offered a job, don’t botch your hard work at the one-yard line.

Instead, start off by thanking the company for the offer and asking clarifying questions to better understand the role you’re being offered, the team you’ll be joining, and the salary and benefits associated with the job. Typically, you’ll receive a call from a hiring manager or recruiter with this information, and then ask for the offer to be sent in writing. 

I generally recommend that people profusely thank their interviewer, then ask for a day to review the offer in detail and return with any questions you may have. Doing so ensures they know you are interested and gives you time to pour over the materials in depth to formulate good questions to ask of your potential employer.

For an entry-level position, you have to strike a balance between negotiating a fair deal and being a high-maintenance hire. I recommend formulating a list of your questions then reviewing the materials a second time to ensure that the answers aren’t contained in the information they sent for you. 

You want to ask questions that are thoughtful, insightful, and reflect what matters most to you. In other words, if your base salary is the most important factor in your job decision, invest most of your time on the phone asking clarifying questions -- not on how much vacation time you will have.

There is no better time than the present to pursue the job and career track you love, but it's not going to fall in your lap. Follow the guide above to narrow your search, target your prospects, and prepare yourself for the application and interview process. It's an investment of time and energy well worth making -- one that will pay dividends for your entire career. 

Don't forget to share this post!

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How New Grads Can Approach the Job Market

Content Type: Article

By Bobby Hoyt, Founder of Millennial Money Man Sponsored by Regions Bank, Member FDIC. All thoughts are my own.

You graduated, congrats! That’s a massive accomplishment, and you should be proud. Finding a job will become top priority as you move onto the next phase of your life.

As you start the hunt for your dream job, there are going to be some moments where you feel overwhelmed and stressed out — that’s completely normal. You are going to find the right job, and there are things you can do to help you with your search. This includes how you look for work, the kinds of jobs you apply for, and finding other opportunities to make money in the meantime.

1. Focus on industries that are hiring

Depending on what’s going on in the world, there are times when certain sectors go through hiring surges. If you pay attention to the news, you may be able to figure some of this out on your own. For example, you might hear a news story about a shortage of hospital workers or supply chain issues. That may indicate industries like healthcare and logistics are in full-blown hiring mode.

However, your safest bet is to do some research, and there is a lot of very accessible data online. A quick Google search can tell you which industries are in need of workers, and you can even find lists of companies who are actively hiring. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also has a wealth of data about specific industries and occupations, from short-term job outlook to state-level data.

Tailoring your job search to industries with job security and growth can give you an edge. That doesn’t mean the right job isn’t out there in a sector that isn’t growing as quickly, but this approach can help you optimize your search.

2. Pay attention to your digital media presence

Your digital presence has never been more important. It’s an opportunity to build remote connections and many recruiters and hiring managers are looking at social media when considering candidates.

That means new grads should start developing a digital footprint for their professional life. The obvious place to start is creating a profile on LinkedIn and building your network there. You may also want to build a website that links to your resume or CV.

For some new graduates, a website can go a long way, especially if you want to share any kind of portfolio. Linking to articles you have written, projects you’ve contributed to, or any kind of content you’ve helped develop can help you outshine competitors. There’s a lot you can share, but only share it if it adds value to your specific job search.

Social media is another huge factor, and there is a good chance future employers will take a look at your accounts before hiring you. Clean up your social accounts so they look professional. You can even curate public content that is relevant to your job search.

3. Start building your professional network

I’ve already mentioned LinkedIn as a way to cultivate a valuable professional network that helps you get hired. Recruiters and head-hunters use LinkedIn to search for candidates and approach them directly through the site. You can even ask professors, former supervisors, and academic advisors to add endorsements to help you stand out.

Here are some tips for your LinkedIn profile:

• Use LinkedIn to build your personal brand. You can create a broader narrative around your strengths and work style. Think about what sets you apart from competitors.
• Use keywords. LinkedIn is a database, and employers will be able to find you better if you use keywords that are relevant to your audience of potential employers.
• Complete your profile. LinkedIn’s algorithm, as well as hiring managers, prefer completed profiles.
• Focus on top sections. The first few sections of your LinkedIn profile are the most important, and it’s where you’ll capture a recruiter’s attention. This includes your cover photo, profile picture, headline, summary, and recent experience. You can even add major accomplishments or certifications in your summary and not wait until the later sections.

It can be an adjustment to get comfortable marketing yourself, but often that is what sets you apart when you are working to get hired.

Check out this article for some extra tips for how to make connections and build your network. You’ll learn more about asking for introductions, personalizing your connection requests and following up promptly.

4. Treat your job search like a job

It’s possible that you’ve heard this advice before, and there’s a reason so many people say it. Job hunting is emotionally and mentally draining, but treating it like work can help you set boundaries and find some balance.

The biggest thing is to be consistent. Commit to a set number of hours per day for job searching, and use that time only for job searching. Make sure it’s a realistic amount of time that fits in with the rest of your life. Make a list of things to complete during those hours. Your list can include things like creating a LinkedIn profile, preparing for interviews , signing up for a job board, emailing connections, researching companies and completing applications.

You will also need to stay organized. Creating a job diary, even if that’s a Google Doc, will help you keep track of everything. It can include dates when you reached out to specific connections so you know when to send a follow-up email, and dates that specific applications are due. Setting reminders or alerts on your phone can help as well.

Your job (of job hunting) should also include a lot of research. Research which industries are hiring, what skills you still need to develop, and any news and trends relevant to your job search.

Job hunting is a big undertaking, so spend time developing relationships with others who are doing the same thing you’re doing. These can be people you know from school or people you've met while networking. You’ll help each other stay on track and think positively.

5. Use job boards wisely

Networking and building connections are some of the most effective ways to find a job after you graduate, but that doesn’t mean you should completely ignore traditional job boards.

Job boards definitely have their place, but they aren’t always comprehensive for the types of opportunities you may be looking for.

Still, because job boards can help you in your search, here are tips for using them to your advantage:

• Create a searchable and personable profile: Follow the same tips that I outlined for your LinkedIn profile, including a thorough profile with searchable terms.
• Set up alerts: Job boards will let you set up alerts so you don’t spend hours poring over listings. You’ll be able to optimize your time for other job-hunting tasks.
• Introduce yourself directly: Research company’s job listings to find out who the hiring manager is and then reach out to them directly.

6. Make money while you search

The average student loan debt for college graduates entering the workforce is an estimated $36,900, which can add stress to your job search. Federal student loans do offer a grace period you can take advantage of while job hunting, but finding ways to make money in the meantime can relieve a lot of that stress.

My favorite jobs to recommend during this period are flexible ones, or side hustles, because you can still put a lot of energy towards your job search. Delivering food for companies like DoorDash and Instacart is a good place to start. You pick when you work, and some food delivery drivers make upwards of $15-$20/hour.

Freelancing is also a solid option because it can actually turn into a full-time job. You can leverage skills you’ve learned in school — writing, marketing, HR, graphic design, web development, to name a few — and look for work on freelance marketplaces like Upwork or Freelancer.

Brand new freelancers typically need to take lower paying gigs when they’re first starting, but this is a very scalable option. I have a team of freelancers who help me run my blog, and many of them earn a full-time living with their freelance skills.

7. Don’t neglect your finances

You’ve got a lot going on at this point. You're job hunting, making money on the side, and probably trying to maintain a healthy social life. That’s a lot to keep track of, but you also need to make time to check in on your finances.

If you don’t have one yet, I highly recommend starting a budget . Your budget will help you create a plan for what’s currently happening with your money, and it will also help create a plan for the future. If you need some help creating a budget or want to improve your budgeting skills, check out these podcasts .

You also want to pay attention to your credit . Starting to build your credit score now will help you in the future. For example, you’ll need a good credit score if you want to refinance your student loans or finance a car.

Speaking of student loans, now is the time to start looking at repayment options . Federal student loan borrowers have a few options — standard, graduated, and income-based repayment options. Research what’s available to you and how your payments will fit into your budget.

The reality for many new graduates is that money is probably pretty tight right now. And it’s more than okay to do things that help you save money, like moving back in with your parents. This is only temporary.

The final word for recent college graduates

Job hunting is tough for everyone. It’s exhausting, and it’s easy to take things personally. However, the tips you’ve read above will put you on a path towards landing the right job.

Some of you will find a job quickly, but some of you have a longer road ahead. Navigating the job market for the first time is hard, so try not to compare yourself to others – everyone is charting their own path. Don’t forget to take care of yourself while you’re out there. Keep in touch with your friends and family, set boundaries, and get rest.

This is just the start of your life. You have so many exciting things ahead of you, and graduating college is one of many accomplishments you’ll see in the future.

Inspired by a mentor to reach for more after starting MillennialMoneyMan.com and paying off his loans, Bobby Hoyt began a pursuit of all things personal finance. Unsatisfied with the financial condition of his fellow millennials, he applied his knowledge as an educator to his blog.

His mission is to encourage fellow Millennials (and generations beyond!) to adhere to four main principles:

• Live below your means until you don’t have to anymore.
• Don’t finance stuff you don’t need.
• Let your friends pass you up (don’t try to keep up with the Joneses)
• Work really hard, then make your money work for you.

Through his work on Millennial Money Man, he hopes to help change the face of personal finance in Gen Y by challenging his readers to slay their debt, increase their income, and plan for their future.

Since quitting his band director job after earning $3 in ad revenues (a tactic he doesn’t recommend to students of his blogging courses) he has grown his blog to reach over 2 million readers each year. He’s a regular personal finance columnist for the American Psychological Association and has made appearances on major media outlets such as Forbes, CNBC, and MarketWatch. A firm believer in the importance of the side hustle (and an educator who values sharing his knowledge), he partnered with former high school classmate Mike Yanda to teach others how to grow their income by running Facebook ads, along with two other active blogger-focused courses at Laptop Empires.

Bobby lives in the Houston, Texas area with his wife Coral, their wonderfully strange dog Strider, and can usually be found on the golf course, or boating on some body of water when they aren’t traveling.

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5 Ways to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Job After College

Many grads are unemployed or under-employed. Don't be one of them.

Yarilet Perez is an experienced multimedia journalist and fact-checker with a Master of Science in Journalism. She has worked in multiple cities covering breaking news, politics, education, and more. Her expertise is in personal finance and investing, and real estate.

Regardless of where you are in life, going to college for the first time—or going back to school to expand your education—pays off. According to a February 2022 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the unemployment rate for college graduates was just 2.2%, compared to 4.5% for high school graduates and 4.3% for those without a high school diploma.

Even in August 2008, during the Great Recession , college grads had a mere 2.8% unemployment rate, compared to 5.8% of high school graduates and 9.7% of those without a high school diploma. Despite the question of whether or not a college degree is worth the time and money, statistics like these clearly support the investment.

College may be the best way to land a job, but when it comes to landing a high-paying job, merely graduating from college no longer the only key to success. You need to enter college with a plan. That's the best way to ensure that you get the most from your degree later on.

Key Takeaways

• Finishing college greatly increases your chances of landing—and keeping—a job after you graduate.
• Still, simply having a degree is not always enough to land the job that you want.
• Choose an in-demand major from a good school, get to networking early on, and keep your passion as a hobby if it won't be a lucrative career.

1. Pick Your Major (and College) Strategically

It used to be okay to head to college now and figure out your degree path later. Now, it's best to know where you want to go. One way to save on education: Plan the most efficient path to graduation by taking the courses you need for your major and fulfilling requirements with the fewest possible additional steps. Graduate in four years or less if you can manage it.

Then, there's finding the best college major for your talents and goals. With the average student loan payment in 2019 being between $200 and $299 per month, getting out with the right kind of degree can make a huge difference in your life after graduation. Your ability to live comfortably, get a car loan or apartment—and, eventually, buy a home or marry and have a family—can be affected. The question is, what qualifies as the right degree?

Studying What You Enjoy

You will likely spend more hours working than playing, so choose a major that will enable you to do something you enjoy and find meaningful. The issue is finding work you value that also promises a decent salary and a good career path after graduation. That could leave you choosing a field that may not be your first choice. Fortunately, most people have more than one career path that they would be happy traveling.

Planning for the Future

How do you find which of your paths have high future demand and pay well? Here's the short answer: If you have a knack for science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) and pursue a career in one of those areas, you will likely do just fine.

You could look for which jobs are in the highest demand. A great place to look for those is the list of the fastest-growing occupations produced by the BLS. Topping that list as of April 18, 2022, are motion picture projectionists, wind turbine service technicians, nurse practitioners, and Ushers, lobby attendants, and ticket takers.

Then, think about which college majors are likely to lead to the best-paying jobs. Below are the college majors associated with the highest median base salaries, according to the career website Glassdoor.com. Note that all are STEM-related.

• Computer Science: $70,000
• Electrical Engineering: $68,438
• Mechanical Engineering: $68,000
• Chemical Engineering: $65,000
• Industrial Engineering: $64,381
• Information Technology: $64,008
• Civil Engineering: $61,500
• Statistics: $60,000
• Nursing: $58,928
• Management Information Systems: $58,000

Salary Reality

Before you get too excited reading these numbers, be aware that the median salary means that half of all workers earn below this amount and half above it. Someone entering the field for the first time will make less than the median salary. Nevertheless, jobs with higher median salaries will also have higher starting salaries. For example, the average starting salary for somebody entering the computer science field is $45,000.

Does this mean you have to give up your dream of being an actor, early childhood educator, or historian? Definitely not. Your major could be one that leads to a higher-paying, high-availability job; a dual major, minor, or hobby could be your other love. It will likely require more schooling, but having marketable skills in more than one discipline is a great use of your time and money. You can try to do both, for example, audition for parts in plays and work at a paid job .

If you plan on working in a lower-paying field , don't attend a high-priced private college that leaves you with massive student loans. Choose a good public college that will let you pursue your dream without being crippled by debt.

Still having trouble figuring out what you want to do with your life? Mark Cuban, entrepreneur and star of the series “Shark Tank,” advises people not to follow their passion. According to Cuban, we have a lot of passions in our life, but most won’t translate into successful careers.

Instead, Cuban says follow your effort. Look at how you spend your time. Whatever you spend the most time doing may be your perfect career. Spending time with something leads to developing a lot of skill, which creates expertise in that field and being an expert translates to career success .

What if your passion is one of those low-paying, low-availability jobs, such as education—a college major that Glassdoor.com associates with a median salary of $43,000?

Maybe you’re well-spoken, make friends easily and people like to be around you. You could be a sales representative for a company that caters to schools and businesses that educate small children. Look for ways to pivot into a job related to your favorite field, but with the potential to make more money. This should provide more room for advancement and let you pay off your college debt faster.

3. Pick a Career That Requires Specialized Skills

Some career paths are overpopulated with candidates, while others have employers begging for qualified candidates. Why? Often because the specialized skills required for one field makes the talent pool smaller.

Major in something that makes you into a specialist and finding a job won’t be hard. Even better, you’ll get paid well from the beginning. Look for jobs where a bachelor's degree in a highly specialized field is all you need to get started, such as computer and information systems.

Fields such as medicine, education, law, and accounting can pay extremely well, of course, but they require that you have an advanced degree to gain the certification needed to apply for those jobs. These might not be the best choice, at least at first, if you want to get a good-paying job straight out of college.

Other careers, such as many jobs in business, require a college degree, but not a specialized one. The more people eligible to apply for a job, the more people you will need to compete against to get it.

Put aside images of that sleazy, cheesy, bad salesperson who shows up at every event to talk about themself. Networking is about forming relationships and taking a genuine interest in people around you. How often have you heard people talking about landing a job because of an old college buddy?

Yes, you should attend events related to your field of study, but if you’re not exactly the social type, look for people on LinkedIn and people at other colleges and universities. Practical networking tips include:

• Meet people through people you already know.
• Look for community groups related to your field.
• Always have your business cards with you (make a personal card if you're not yet employed).
• Be well-read in your field so that you can talk about it easily.
• Ask people questions rather than talking about yourself.
• Ask your new contact for suggestions of other people to meet.
• Practice networking conversations with a trusted friend if they don't come naturally to you.
• Be aware of body language—smile and uncross your arms.
• Don’t try to be somebody you’re not.
• Don’t have an agenda; be open to meeting all kinds of people. You never know where a conversation will lead.

The fastest track to a job of your dreams is through an internship. Any company executive knows that hiring a person is expensive, often well into five figures when training is factored in. If they’re going to spend five figures, they would much rather hire a sure thing than somebody they don’t know. That’s why companies love internships . It’s the perfect way to find their next top-notch employees with barely any risk.

Starting with the summer after your first year, use your college's career-planning office to apply for internships, or contact companies that interest you directly. Some colleges even offer fellowships to enable students to accept poorly paid (or unpaid) internships by offering grants. Or consider combining a part-time poorly paid internship in the field you want with non-career work that pays better. Fortunately, some high-paid fields also pay their interns well, especially those who are close to graduating.

A few tips for a successful internship:

• Be prepared (and cheerful) when asked to do grunt work.
• Don’t be late.
• Dress the part.
• Meet as many people at the company as possible.
• Don’t be idle; when a task is done ask for another or find one on your own.
• Read the same publications that others at the business are reading.
• Find a mentor.
• Ask a lot of questions, but at the appropriate time.
• Avoid gossip and negative talk.
• Be thankful.

Making the most of your college education is essential to having the best chance of finding the job (and life) you've dreamed of having. And the sooner you get out of college, the sooner you will earn money instead of building up more debt.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. " TED: The Economics Daily: High School Graduates with no College Had Unemployment Rate of 4.5 Percent in February 2022 ."

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic. " The Employment Situation: August 2008 ," Table A-4.

Federal Reserve Board. " Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2019, Featuring Supplemental Data from April 2020, May 2020 ," Page 44.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Fastest Growing Occupations ."

Glassdoor. " Know Your Worth 50 Highest Paying College Majors ."

ZipRecruiter. " Entry Level Computer Science Salary ."

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• CAREER COLUMN
• 08 April 2024

How we landed job interviews for professorships straight out of our PhD programmes

• Violeta Rodriguez 0 &
• Qimin Liu 1

Violeta Rodriguez is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Qimin Liu is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences at Boston University in Massachusetts.

By staying organized in their job hunt, both authors received several job offers. Credit: Getty

We met during the last year of our PhD training, after securing placements at the University of Illinois Chicago’s Department of Psychiatry for our predoctoral internships — the final step of our clinical doctoral programmes. V. R. came from the University of Georgia in Athens and was pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology, and Q. L. came from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, and was working towards a PhD in clinical science and quantitative methods. It was amid the academic rigour and personal stress of the last year of our programmes that we became friends. We bonded over being immigrants and not speaking English as our first language while navigating the complexities of academia. We both wanted to forgo postdoctoral training and instead immediately become junior professors. Now, we’re assistant professors: V. R. is at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and Q. L. is at Boston University in Massachusetts.

The odds we faced in the academic job market had seemed insurmountable, particularly to immigrants, and we had been cautioned by mentors and even junior faculty members about the challenge ahead. But we succeeded: we received a combined total of 27 in-person interviews, leading to 15 tenure-track assistant-professor offers across departments of psychology, paediatrics or psychiatry, schools of education and academic medical centres. (You can check out our hints for nailing job interviews in our other article .)

How to move labs

Despite the positive outcome, the process was stressful, fast and unpredictable. Our friendship became a sanctuary: amid the daunting job market and our own self-doubt, we understood and encouraged each other. We want to offer what our friendship provided us — understanding, support and encouragement — to researchers hoping to stay in academia after earning a PhD, so we are sharing our reflections and insights.

We must first make clear: no amount of job-search tips and tricks can substitute for good science and a strong publication record. To gauge our readiness, we looked up the CV of the most recent hire in each department that we applied to. We also made sure we had backup offers of postdoctoral positions. While navigating this process, we learnt that institutions were interested in candidates who planned to pursue external funding.

Qimin Liu is now an assistant professor. Credit: Qimin Liu

We had both obtained federal and private funding before — making us more competitive. We urge aspiring professors to prioritize their research contributions, external fellowship and grant applications and academic achievements above all.

To readers who’ve successfully navigated this process, many of our reflections and insights could seem obvious. However, this kind of advice can be the hardest to follow during a fast-moving job hunt, with several moving pieces involved and new considerations and job offers or advertisements emerging unexpectedly. Treat this as a checklist before beginning to fill out job applications.

Tips and tricks

Start your search early. Allow ample time to prepare for the job hunt; research potential options, such as jobs in academic medical centres, standard department positions or tenure-track jobs in related fields; and submit applications. Plan to reply to job ads long before the first deadline. Starting early gives you time to collect and incorporate feedback from mentors and colleagues.

Training: Free course on peer review

Prepare your networks. The academic job market can be unpredictable, with opportunities emerging unexpectedly. It is important to think about who can write letters for you — sometimes at short notice. Most of our applications required three letters of recommendation from all applicants. Others requested letters from only shortlisted candidates.

Plan ahead. The final drafts of materials took, on average, one to two months in total to prepare and polish. The initial drafts took about 8 hours, and the research statement required a total of 16 hours. (The research statement summarizes your research programme, the work you’ve done so far and what you plan to pursue in future. It can also highlight why a particular institution is well-suited to support your work.) Preparing drafted statements in advance made it easier to adapt them to different positions later — tweaking materials for specific positions took 30–60 minutes per application.

Research potential job opportunities. Don’t just rely on word-of-mouth or googling specific positions to find things you’re interested in applying to. Use online job boards (such as HigherEdJobs or Nature Careers ), and tap into your professional network by sending e-mails or LinkedIn messages to your mentors and colleagues, letting them know you’re on the job market. Scour social media and department websites to find available positions. We both posted on X (formerly Twitter) that we were job hunting, and several people reached out with opportunities.

Develop job application ‘templates’. Create a set of well-crafted templates for your application materials, such as cover letters and statements, on which you can easily fill in your name, relevant details and where you’ve previously worked. Having adaptable documents allowed us to respond quickly to new postings.

Tailor your application materials. Templates can take you only so far. Take the time to customize your application materials, including your CV, cover letter (each of ours was one page long) and research statement, to highlight your relevant skills, experiences and research contributions. Tailoring your materials to each position demonstrates genuine interest and increases your chances of standing out to hiring committees. Generic applications are easy for hiring managers to reject. Mentioning centres or institutes that align with your research; available resources, such as early-career programmes, that you want to take advantage of; and the names of people whom you are interested in working with can help to personalize your application materials.

Stay organized. Maintain a well-organized system to track application deadlines, requirements and submission statuses. Be ready to remind your letter writers to submit their recommendations. Keep a calendar or spreadsheet to ensure that all required materials are submitted on time and to track when to follow up. An example spreadsheet is provided below.

Practise for interviews and job talks. Run mock interviews with your peers or mentors. Practise answering common interview questions and develop concise, compelling responses that highlight your expertise, teaching abilities and fit. Treat these seriously — you’re likely to be nervous in the real interview, so try to recreate that while rehearsing, perhaps by inviting a relatively unknown colleague or professor to join the practice runs. V. R. recorded her job talk on Zoom and sent it to others for feedback.

Practising your job talk — a presentation of your academic research that is often a spoken version of your research statement — until you know it backwards and forwards will prepare you for the unexpected. In addition, rehearsing how you plan to respond to different questions, and practising saying that you want people to hold their questions until the end, can be helpful.

Prepare a start-up budget to get your lab running. Many academic positions include a start-up fund for incoming faculty members. It is typically used for summer salary and staffing or research costs. You might be asked for an estimated budget before, during or after the interview stage — so you should have one ready in advance. When preparing your budget, keep in mind the spending norms at the institution and for your discipline. Ask for more than you think you need, because this amount will often be reduced during negotiations.

As we look back on our job-hunting experiences, we are reminded of how much we grew in this process, in ways that are not related to just our jobs — and this growth continued in our interviews .

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01044-1

This is an article from the Nature Careers Community, a place for Nature readers to share their professional experiences and advice. Guest posts are encouraged .

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Does graduate school gpa matter.

Senior Associate, JPMorgan Chase

As a former college student, you may remember the long nights, stress, and anticipation you had in your undergraduate days when it came to maintaining your grade point average (GPA) . If you’re a graduate student or considering that path , you may be wondering, will your GPA matter as much?

Like in your undergraduate days, your GPA matters to pass and ultimately obtain a graduate degree, but depending on your situation, getting a high GPA may or may not be impactful.

In this article, we’ll cover what’s considered a “good” GPA, and the circumstances when your GPA may matter during grad school and when it may not matter as much.

What does GPA mean?

First, let’s go over what GPA means. GPA, an acronym for grade point average, is a metric high school, colleges, and graduate schools use to measure academic performance.

To find your GPA for a school term, you multiply each grade you received by its corresponding credit hours to find the “grade points” for that course. Then, add up all the grade points from all the courses you took in a term to find your total grade points for that term. Next, add up all the credit hours you completed in a term. Finally, divide the total grade points by the total credit hours for a term.

If you want to look at your cumulative GPA — your GPA for all the terms you’ve completed — you multiply each grade you’ve received to its corresponding credit hours to find the “grade points” for that course. Next, add up all the grade points from all the courses you've taken to find your total grade points. Then, add up all the credit hours you completed. Finally, divide the total grade points by the total credit hours to look at your cumulative GPA.

The basic formula for GPA is as follows:

(Grade Points × Credits) ÷ Credits = GPA

What’s considered a good GPA in grad school?

There’s no one right answer to what’s considered a good GPA in grad school. There are a few ways you can assess what a good GPA may be to you, though.

One way is to find out what GPA you need to receive to remain in good academic standing in your graduate degree program. Another way is to find out the average GPA in your graduate program to benchmark yourself against.

Lastly, what a “good GPA” in grad school means to you may depend on your goals after graduation. For instance, if you’re in a master’s degree program and are looking to apply to Ph.D programs, finding out what GPA you need to maintain to be a competitive applicant may be helpful.

When your GPA matters in grad school (and when it may not)

In some cases, your grad school gpa will impact your ability to get a job.

The National Association of Colleges and Employers' 2024 Job Outlook Report found that 38.3% of employers screen candidates by GPA .

In some cases, employers will require that job applicants have maintained a specific GPA in both their undergraduate and graduate careers. In other instances, job applications will ask for your undergraduate and graduate school GPAs, or prospective employers will ask for these numbers in job interviews.

Even if you’re required to supply your GPA to prospective employers, how much it’s ultimately weighed in the application process may vary quite a bit. Some employers may look highly on a high grad school GPA, while others may value work experience and other factors more strongly.

Your grad school GPA may impact your ability to be accepted into other grad school programs, including Ph.D programs

If you’re pursuing a graduate degree with your eyes set on entering another graduate degree program after, know that maintaining a strong GPA in your current program may matter to admissions committees.

As an example, the University of Washington recommends at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA and 3.5 GPA specific to your area of study to be a competitive applicant to the school’s Ph.D programs. Again, this is just one example, but many universities will provide these recommendations.

If you visit the admission page of the graduate school program you have in mind, typically, you’ll find a list of requirements, including GPA requirements.

Your grad school GPA may matter in terms of retaining financial aid

Maintaining a certain GPA does matter for retaining financial aid. The office of Federal Student Aid states that “you need satisfactory academic progress ” to keep your federal student aid package.

Exact satisfactory academic progress requirements will vary from school to school, so you may need to check with your graduate program to determine the GPA requirement. At many schools, students need to maintain a 2.0, if not a 3.0 GPA, to maintain eligibility.

Your grad school GPA may matter in terms of retaining employer tuition assistance

If you’re paying your grad school tuition with help from an employer tuition assistance program —  MBA tuition assistance programs as an example  — you may need to maintain a certain GPA to continue receiving this assistance. This expectation, if there’s one, is usually laid out when you sign up with your employer for this assistance. If you’re unsure of whether there is a requirement, contact your employer.

Grad school GPA may be less significant to some students

Some students may find that they don’t necessarily need to receive a high GPA in grad school to achieve their post grad school objectives. Many employers don’t factor students’ grad school GPAs into hiring decisions. Students who feel confident that they won’t be seeking another advanced degree won’t have to worry about their grad school GPA impacting future grad school applications.

Final thoughts

The importance of receiving a high GPA in graduate school is going to matter to different students at varying degrees. All that said, the personal satisfaction that comes from mastering the material and receiving a high GPA (especially if you’re making the commitment to go to grad school) shouldn’t be ignored.

You don't need to go to college to find your dream job, 'degree free' entrepreneur says

A college degree isn't always necessary to land a lucrative job that can give you the lifestyle you want, one young entrepreneur firmly believes and shares with her followers on social media.

TikTokers Hannah and Ryan Maruyama run the Degree Free Network, a podcast and consulting business to educate teens, families and job-seekers on alternatives to college degrees.

Hannah Maruyama found a successful career without obtaining a four-year-degree. She says their advice can help high school students and their parents save years and tens of thousands in debt.

"We actually make career roadmaps for 16 to 18-year-olds, so rising juniors and seniors," Maruyama explained to Fox News Digital . "The idea is to make sure that they are taking the right path for their education. And we delineate [between] ‘education’ and ‘college’ because they are two separate things. There is the ability to learn practical skills and to learn valuable educational skills without buying college degrees."

SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR DITCHES COLLEGE DEGREE FOR ‘HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE’

Maruyama says many of their clients are looking for careers that earn enough income to pursue the lifestyle they want without digging themselves into student loan debt.

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She warns that the "college pipeline" path most schools in the U.S. push isn't always the best option for high school graduates. 

Recent surveys, such as this 2023 poll from the Wall Street Journal-NORC suggest that more Americans than ever believe that going to college is a bad investment. Staggering student loan debt – about $1.7 trillion divided among 43 million Americans – has become a top issue in the United States, and the Biden administration has canceled billions in debt even after the Supreme Court struck down its initial handout last year. 

HBO comedian John Oliver devoted an episode of "Last Week Tonight" to the topic last week to underscore how many Americans are struggling to pay off their loans.

Maruyama says most parents and students don't take the time to learn about the thousands of jobs out there that pay a decent income but only require self-teaching and/or certificates to obtain.

When talking to parents, she recommends they first determine if degrees are legally required for the career their child wants, and whether they can afford to pay off tens of thousands of dollars to get a degree in that field.

She also asks students to determine what kind of lifestyle they want to lead and if their goals can realistically be met by that career and the responsibilities it entails.

"It's not my job to discourage these kids from certain jobs or from buying college degrees even. It's my job to make sure that they understand the consequences of taking certain paths," she explained.

US COMPANIES INCREASINGLY ELIMINATE COLLEGE DEGREES AS A REQUIREMENT AMID ‘OUT-OF-CONTROL’ SCHOOL COSTS

Maruyama says her own personal experience of having to find a well-paying remote job after getting laid off during the COVID pandemic "opened her eyes" to what was possible without a college degree.

After losing her job, she immediately started researching what the top skills remote jobs with her desired income required. In just a few months, she had learned a new software program, earned a certificate and acquired her first job in tech.

"So it was pretty eye-opening to me because I had always suspected that you didn't need a bachelor's degree in order to apply for jobs that said they required them, but that really hammered it home for me. Because that job said it required a bachelor's degree in computer science, which obviously I do not have," she said.

"And that just sent me down this rabbit hole where I wondered if I can do this technical position with a certification… What else can people do?"

EMPLOYERS ARE FED UP WITH COLLEGE 'WASTE,' OPT FOR SKILLED BLUE-COLLAR WORKERS INSTEAD

Maruyama started talking about her experience on TikTok where she drew a large following. Eventually, she and her husband Ryan launched their "Degree Free" network as a consulting service to help others in their career search.

Maruyama says those willing to teach themselves the skills can find a variety of jobs in tech, finance, medicine and more. 

She's seen jobs like CNC programmers, software developers, AI experts, financial analysts, organ transplant coordinators, midwives, real estate photography, forestry and even pilots that don't require bachelor's degrees but often earn more than the median income those with college degrees make.

More businesses in the U.S. have begun ditching the degree requirements for corporate roles as part of a wider trend in the U.S. job market de-emphasizing the value of a four-year diploma.

Companies like Walmart , IBM, Accenture, Bank of America and Google recently announced plans to reduce the number of jobs that require college degrees.

People without degrees may have more work experience and a skill set that can give them an advantage over students who spent an average of five-and-a-half years in school without a job, Maruyama argued.

"The truth is companies don't actually care about bachelor's degrees. They care about your ability to do the job. And that's increasingly what's becoming the trend now," she said.

Fox News' Gabriel Hays, Kendall Tietz and Nikolas Lanum contributed to this report.

Original article source: You don't need to go to college to find your dream job, 'degree free' entrepreneur says