January 29, 2026
For many students, the second semester can be overwhelming: finding a new routine, changing schedules and coursework, the pressures of the new year and making plans for the future. For those looking to secure professional experience, the job search may feel like another task on an already long to-do list. Let this list of professional tips be your starting point in approaching the next steps in your career.
Wherever you are in your professional journey, Career Services is here to help. From one-on-one sessions with career coaches and resume writing assistance to career fairs and one-of-a-kind connections with local and national employers, there are resources available to all students. Connect with your college's career team and take this first step towards your professional career.
Resume & Cover Letter
There is no such thing as “one size fits all” in the professional world. Each time you submit a job application, your resume, cover letter and all other necessary materials should be tailored to the role and reflective of the skills you possess to thrive in that position. While it is important to keep a standard of integrity, there is room for flexibility in highlighting specific areas of expertise based on the role requirements. For example, if the job you are applying to is looking for someone with hands-on experience in accounting and financials and you are the treasurer of an RSO, it would be important to include this skill throughout the application. In this case, consider writing about this involvement in your cover letter, bringing a portfolio of the work you have done, and in an interview, use this role in your answers. Below are a few more tips for your professional materials:
- Personalize your cover letter for each employer.
- Use specific names of hiring managers, office addresses and be sure to update the date sent on the document.
- Include a list of references, if applicable.
- Make sure you have permission from the people you are listing as references and brief them on the job you’ve applied for. When they get a call about their experience working with you, they’ll know what skills are relevant to mention.
- Gather a portfolio of previous work.
- Based on the industry, business and role, gathering previous work, class projects and internship accomplishments can help set you apart from other candidates and give employers a real glance at the experience and value you bring to the table.
- Print your materials when attending career fairs, interviews and other employment opportunities.
- Having a hard copy of your resume, cover letter and portfolio gives the employer something tangible to remember you.
Networking
While it may sound redundant, networking really is everything in the professional world. But how do you take the first steps to building a network? It is simpler than you may think. Attend your professor’s office hours. Reach out to family friends in your desired industry. Join RSOs on campus and get involved. Email connections on Handshake and LinkedIn for informational interviews. Introduce yourself to unfamiliar faces. Most importantly, after building relationships, stay connected through open communication, engagement on professional posts or meeting up every once in a while to check in.
Put yourself out there and be the first to make connections! You never know where these relationships will lead you.
Marketing Yourself
During the job search, as much as employers are selling their business to you, you are selling yourself to them. Employers want to know who you are, what accomplishments you have achieved and how you can add value to their workplace. They want to get to know what makes you special.
While you may not be aware of it, your presence in your day-to-day life and online are reflective of your own personal “brand.” Your work in the classroom, web of connections, involvements and activity across social platforms are all on display for employers. One of the many ways to share your brand and connect with members in the industry is through resources like Handshake and LinkedIn.
Handshake and LinkedIn are both great tools for sharing and strengthening your brand, allowing you to market yourself in a competitive job market. Connect with members in the industry, follow businesses of interest, post about achievements and relevant class projects, highlight your involvements and put your name out there for people to see. It is important to keep your profiles up to date and relevant to stay part of the job search and to reflect the growth of your professional experiences and skills.
Learn more about how to build a strong, professional reputation with this Forbes article and refer to Career Service’s job and internship guide for hands-on resources as you begin your professional journey.
Most importantly, be open to the process, understand that rejection is redirection and give yourself grace as you take your first steps into a professional industry. Ask for help when you need it and remember that your career is a learning experience and there are endless opportunities for you and your future.