Summer is finally here, and you're conflicted—should you intern, work, or just take a much-needed break? When our parents were our age, summers were for romantic flings, leisurely car rides, and, most important, summer jobs. These jobs were typically, but not always, in the service or manual labor sectors of the market.
While these sorts of summer experiences are still common for high school students, for those in college, the summer time becomes more fraught with career-driven importance. Like it or not, what you do during the summer could very well dictate what you will do upon launching your first career. The most common enterprise for college students during the summer is obviously the much-coveted internship. Increasingly, employers use internships as filters into future employment.
Still, internships are not without their pitfalls. In fact, we've already established a cultural image of the typical intern. You know exactly what I'm talking about—the young, slave-driven student who gets paid nothing to perform menial tasks like fetching coffee and figuring out the endlessly complex inner workings of the office copy machine. Of course, this stereotype is more often than not only a Hollywood creation. But as with any Hollywood creation, it has some basis in the truth.
The biggest problem with internships, more than anything, is that they are often unpaid. For students who are expected by their legal guardians to have their own source of disposable, personal income, like I was, the internship can sometimes become an impossibility. And so one of the biggest public complaints about our internship system is that it provides future career opportunities only for the already privileged.
However, this doesn't necessarily have to be the case, if you do your research carefully. Now, there are legions of paid internship opportunities out there, especially through your university. At my alma mater, these opportunities were everywhere, only they were not highly advertised. Thus, the responsibility fell squarely on the student to actively seek out such opportunities. Sometimes, you can even find an unpaid extra-collegiate internship and ask an academic department or campus organization to fund you.
What's more, the typical summer job need not be merely an anachronism. There are various important skills you can learn through a retail or other service-related job, even though it may seem pointless at first. You'll learn excellent communication skills and you'll probably pick up a better work ethic than you would through an internship.
So do you really have to choose between an internship and a traditional summer job? Absolutely not. One of the most forgiving advantages of internships is that they're usually part-time. A typical workload will be something like 15 hours a week. This gives you plenty of time to find traditional summer work, which, as I said, provides an opportunity to develop invaluable career skills that you may not experience as an intern. This way, you don't have to decide between a summer job and an internship. If you plan wisely, you can experience both.
This guest post is contributed by Katheryn Rivas, who writes on the topics of Online Universities Accredited. She welcomes your comments here and directly through her email.
Showing posts with label job search - internship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label job search - internship. Show all posts
Monday, June 07, 2010
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Teen's First Job Interview
It's your first job interview and you're a little nervous. That's understandable. Almost everyone gets the chitters when they feel under the spotlight. So try to think of your interview as a two-way conversation between you and the employer. You're both trying to figure out if it's a good idea for you to take this new job you're applying for.
Here are a few tips to make the conversation go smoothly:
- Before your interview, practice how you'll answer questions the employer is likely to ask, and make a list of questions you want to ask about the job.
- For your job interview, dress one step up from what you would expect to wear normally on the job.
- Make a good impression by smiling, having good posture, making eye contact, and being friendly to everyone you meet at the job site (not just the person interviewing you).
- Avoid talking about pay until after you understand all that's involved with the job.
- After the interview, say "thank you" to the interviewer, as well as to those who ushered you in (such as the receptionist or security guard).
Once you have this first job interview under your belt, you'll have a sense of how to do even better the next time. Good luck with it!
Here are a few tips to make the conversation go smoothly:
- Before your interview, practice how you'll answer questions the employer is likely to ask, and make a list of questions you want to ask about the job.
- For your job interview, dress one step up from what you would expect to wear normally on the job.
- Make a good impression by smiling, having good posture, making eye contact, and being friendly to everyone you meet at the job site (not just the person interviewing you).
- Avoid talking about pay until after you understand all that's involved with the job.
- After the interview, say "thank you" to the interviewer, as well as to those who ushered you in (such as the receptionist or security guard).
Once you have this first job interview under your belt, you'll have a sense of how to do even better the next time. Good luck with it!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
New Grad's Creative Career with Kids
Question
My name is Amanda and I'm 22 years old. I graduated Hofstra University in December 2006 with my Bachelor's degree in two areas: Film Production and Creative Writing.
I love to write, be involved in the film process, taking pictures, and children. I studied writing in school and I've always done creative projects involving film and movies. And all the jobs I've had have involved working with children (YMCA swim instructor and camp counselor).
My issue is that I know my gift is with kids. They respond to me and I enjoy immensely working with them. However, I enjoy being creative, I feel I can contribute creatively in some way through film, through writing, but I want to be able to blend my two loves: working with children, and being involved in a project I feel will make a difference. I don't know where to look. I don't want to be a teacher necessarily, because I feel it’s too confining. I'd like it because of the children, but I don't know if I would like the teaching aspect. You can't just "try out" teaching, you know? And why go through all the education to find out, "Oh, I don't want to teach, actually."
Where do I look for jobs? What possible jobs would fit the mold of what I'm looking for? Should I go back to school and get a Masters in child education or something? Any advice would help.
Answer
by Richard Yadon, CPC, President/CEO, Health Career Professionals
You are on the right track in deciding your life's work – staying close to your passions. Given what you've written it doesn't sound like teaching is what you want to do first. Since my son is an actor I have some insight to the film process and I can suggest a few options for you to explore.
The first option would be to combine your love for writing and filmmaking into producing your own children's film. Apply your creativity and answer a problem either parents or children face each day. For instance, my son (age 13) is currently working in a series of videos that address teenage alcoholism and drug abuse. The project features all children and teenagers. While this topic might be too heavy, you could look for lighter subjects. Conceive the idea, budget it, then approach organizations that either support or help children to partner with you on the production.
Another option would be to work as a Production Assistant or intern on film, video, or TV projects involving children. I'm always impressed with the young PA's on the set where my son works. They help put some of the younger actors at ease and make the long periods of waiting around more enjoyable.
Finally, if you are looking for more of a full-time employee position, you might contact publishers, advertising agencies, production companies, schools for the arts, or even school systems that offer a filmmaking class option for children.
Find high quality Bilingual jobs at LatPro.com.
My name is Amanda and I'm 22 years old. I graduated Hofstra University in December 2006 with my Bachelor's degree in two areas: Film Production and Creative Writing.
I love to write, be involved in the film process, taking pictures, and children. I studied writing in school and I've always done creative projects involving film and movies. And all the jobs I've had have involved working with children (YMCA swim instructor and camp counselor).
My issue is that I know my gift is with kids. They respond to me and I enjoy immensely working with them. However, I enjoy being creative, I feel I can contribute creatively in some way through film, through writing, but I want to be able to blend my two loves: working with children, and being involved in a project I feel will make a difference. I don't know where to look. I don't want to be a teacher necessarily, because I feel it’s too confining. I'd like it because of the children, but I don't know if I would like the teaching aspect. You can't just "try out" teaching, you know? And why go through all the education to find out, "Oh, I don't want to teach, actually."
Where do I look for jobs? What possible jobs would fit the mold of what I'm looking for? Should I go back to school and get a Masters in child education or something? Any advice would help.
Answer
by Richard Yadon, CPC, President/CEO, Health Career Professionals
You are on the right track in deciding your life's work – staying close to your passions. Given what you've written it doesn't sound like teaching is what you want to do first. Since my son is an actor I have some insight to the film process and I can suggest a few options for you to explore.
The first option would be to combine your love for writing and filmmaking into producing your own children's film. Apply your creativity and answer a problem either parents or children face each day. For instance, my son (age 13) is currently working in a series of videos that address teenage alcoholism and drug abuse. The project features all children and teenagers. While this topic might be too heavy, you could look for lighter subjects. Conceive the idea, budget it, then approach organizations that either support or help children to partner with you on the production.
Another option would be to work as a Production Assistant or intern on film, video, or TV projects involving children. I'm always impressed with the young PA's on the set where my son works. They help put some of the younger actors at ease and make the long periods of waiting around more enjoyable.
Finally, if you are looking for more of a full-time employee position, you might contact publishers, advertising agencies, production companies, schools for the arts, or even school systems that offer a filmmaking class option for children.
Find high quality Bilingual jobs at LatPro.com.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Finding an Entry-Level Job in Law Firm
Question
After extensive soul searching and reviewing my skills, I am pursuing my BS degree in Paralegal Studies. I am trying to think ahead and start my legal career before I graduate in 2008. Most of the positions I have held have been in customer service.
Most of the job advertisements require five years experience in the legal field that I do not have. I wanted to know how I can find an entry-level position that can use my talents and skills from my previous jobs and the knowledge I have obtained from college. I have tried temporary agencies that have jobs in the legal area but have not been successful.
I am getting discouraged. I do not want to graduate and still be in the customer service field.
-- Sharda
Answer
by Ronnie Ann, Work Coach
Hi Sharda!
I can imagine how frustrating that must be for you. I respect that you’re trying to get a jump-start on your legal career.
While you’re right to think that finding an entry-level job in the legal field might be a great way to begin your new career, it’s important not to let your ambitious plan frustrate you. I’d like to tell you that the doors will just open – and sometimes things like that happen – but this usually takes time. Determination and patience will be your greatest allies in this or any career change.
In my own life, I’ve made a few career changes and each time it took a while. And although I got many rejections…I eventually got there. It only takes one “yes.” I once decided to become a theatrical agent and sent a letter to every agency in New York City. They all turned me down. But about 6 months later I got a phone call from a fairly well-known agency asking if I would do one day of reception work for them because they were in a bind. Even though I had an MBA and quite a few years of corporate experience, I said “sure!” That one day turned into a job as Executive Assistant to the president, a high-powered super agent.
From what I understand, you are right that most places require 2-5 years legal experience when looking for a paralegal. And you haven’t even graduated your program yet, so you’re competing with all the graduate paralegals (many without adequate experience) who are also looking. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a legal job of some sort. It just means you’ll have to be creative.
First I hope you are working with your school’s placement office and telling them that you will take any job in a law firm or legal area, even if it’s a legal receptionist or secretary. Since you don’t have your degree yet, this will at least allow you to gain some related experience and make contacts in the company. Also remember to ask your professors for help. They probably have contacts. Stress to them that you’ll give it your best and are open to any legitimate opportunity to get your foot in the legal door.
But before presenting yourself to any company, it is essential that you come to them with top-level legal research skills (Westlaw/Lexis-Nexis) as well as excellent office software skills such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. So if any of these are weak, your first goal should be to get yourself to a point of being a true star. You will then be able to highlight this (along with those good customer service/people skills) in your cover letters and interviews, and thus differentiate yourself from the teeming masses.
You mentioned that you’ve worked with legal temp agencies and had no luck. Don’t forget to try a regular temp agency and tell them you’re looking for any job in a legal area – even if it’s a bank compliance department or government agency. In fact, government agencies will sometimes be a bit more flexible than corporations when it comes to requiring experience. Also, once your skills are where they need to be, try the legal temp agencies again, making sure they know about your new top-notch skills and that you are very flexible about the level of job.
You should also be ready to approach various size law firms on your own and, again, let them know you will accept even a receptionist job if that’s your way in. They need to see that you are determined and reliable. The rest you can make happen once inside if you play it smart by doing an outstanding job – no matter what it is - and making connections. But as I said, first get those skills to shine!
In addition, schools often provide essential career assistance by offering internships that give you exactly what you’re looking for – a way to get to your first legal job. And that might not be available to you until your last semester.
According to Michael Horowitz in his post called Paralegal Experience; Keeping Your Day Job??? the internship might be your real answer:
That might be just what you need, Sharda. And, by the time you get to that point, you’ll actually have some of the new skills that will help you get ahead. Your idea to start now might be worth pursuing as a possibility, but if it doesn’t work out, congratulate yourself on the effort and focus on your classes. There are still ways to get to your goal – when the time is right.
So think about your options and see what makes sense for you. But most importantly – don’t let a tough process undermine your belief in the results or in yourself. You’ll get there. Just make sure you’re ready to offer them the best you can when you do!
Good luck in your new career, Sharda! I’m rooting for you.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
After extensive soul searching and reviewing my skills, I am pursuing my BS degree in Paralegal Studies. I am trying to think ahead and start my legal career before I graduate in 2008. Most of the positions I have held have been in customer service.
Most of the job advertisements require five years experience in the legal field that I do not have. I wanted to know how I can find an entry-level position that can use my talents and skills from my previous jobs and the knowledge I have obtained from college. I have tried temporary agencies that have jobs in the legal area but have not been successful.
I am getting discouraged. I do not want to graduate and still be in the customer service field.
-- Sharda
Answer
by Ronnie Ann, Work Coach
Hi Sharda!
I can imagine how frustrating that must be for you. I respect that you’re trying to get a jump-start on your legal career.
While you’re right to think that finding an entry-level job in the legal field might be a great way to begin your new career, it’s important not to let your ambitious plan frustrate you. I’d like to tell you that the doors will just open – and sometimes things like that happen – but this usually takes time. Determination and patience will be your greatest allies in this or any career change.
In my own life, I’ve made a few career changes and each time it took a while. And although I got many rejections…I eventually got there. It only takes one “yes.” I once decided to become a theatrical agent and sent a letter to every agency in New York City. They all turned me down. But about 6 months later I got a phone call from a fairly well-known agency asking if I would do one day of reception work for them because they were in a bind. Even though I had an MBA and quite a few years of corporate experience, I said “sure!” That one day turned into a job as Executive Assistant to the president, a high-powered super agent.
From what I understand, you are right that most places require 2-5 years legal experience when looking for a paralegal. And you haven’t even graduated your program yet, so you’re competing with all the graduate paralegals (many without adequate experience) who are also looking. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find a legal job of some sort. It just means you’ll have to be creative.
First I hope you are working with your school’s placement office and telling them that you will take any job in a law firm or legal area, even if it’s a legal receptionist or secretary. Since you don’t have your degree yet, this will at least allow you to gain some related experience and make contacts in the company. Also remember to ask your professors for help. They probably have contacts. Stress to them that you’ll give it your best and are open to any legitimate opportunity to get your foot in the legal door.
But before presenting yourself to any company, it is essential that you come to them with top-level legal research skills (Westlaw/Lexis-Nexis) as well as excellent office software skills such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. So if any of these are weak, your first goal should be to get yourself to a point of being a true star. You will then be able to highlight this (along with those good customer service/people skills) in your cover letters and interviews, and thus differentiate yourself from the teeming masses.
You mentioned that you’ve worked with legal temp agencies and had no luck. Don’t forget to try a regular temp agency and tell them you’re looking for any job in a legal area – even if it’s a bank compliance department or government agency. In fact, government agencies will sometimes be a bit more flexible than corporations when it comes to requiring experience. Also, once your skills are where they need to be, try the legal temp agencies again, making sure they know about your new top-notch skills and that you are very flexible about the level of job.
You should also be ready to approach various size law firms on your own and, again, let them know you will accept even a receptionist job if that’s your way in. They need to see that you are determined and reliable. The rest you can make happen once inside if you play it smart by doing an outstanding job – no matter what it is - and making connections. But as I said, first get those skills to shine!
In addition, schools often provide essential career assistance by offering internships that give you exactly what you’re looking for – a way to get to your first legal job. And that might not be available to you until your last semester.
According to Michael Horowitz in his post called Paralegal Experience; Keeping Your Day Job??? the internship might be your real answer:
I received my paralegal degree almost 20 years ago (AAS - Legal
Assistant) and, even though I already held a undergrad degree (BS -
Criminal Justice), I had to perform an internship and put in about 120
hours during the last term of my program. Certificate programs at my,
and other local accredited schools, had (and still have) similar
requirements. I actually got a job out of my internship, as did most
of my classmates, at least those who intended to work in the field.
That might be just what you need, Sharda. And, by the time you get to that point, you’ll actually have some of the new skills that will help you get ahead. Your idea to start now might be worth pursuing as a possibility, but if it doesn’t work out, congratulate yourself on the effort and focus on your classes. There are still ways to get to your goal – when the time is right.
So think about your options and see what makes sense for you. But most importantly – don’t let a tough process undermine your belief in the results or in yourself. You’ll get there. Just make sure you’re ready to offer them the best you can when you do!
Good luck in your new career, Sharda! I’m rooting for you.
Susan Ireland’s Two Cents
Job Lounger, do you have a question? Email (joblounge@aol.com) it to me and I’ll post your question and an expert’s answer here in The Job Lounge.
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