Washington State University Career Guide - Flipbook - Page 5
Career & Resume Guide
for Cougs, 2024 Edition
LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Skillshare (there are MANY options available, these are
just a few options).
¤ Internships and Practicums: Many career areas favor and/or require hands-on experience.
YEAR THREE: FOCUS ON RESEARCHING & NETWORKING
With so many opportunities in your future, it’s helpful to start narrowing down your direction. This is a
great opportunity to research potential industries, companies/organizations; and/or graduate and
professional schools.
¤ Research: Understanding what an employer is looking for in a
GOAL: Set a personal goal to
job applicant is key to creating useful resumes and cover letters.
obtain an internship this
year. Internships come in
If there are skills or job requirements that you don’t yet have, this
many different capacities
is a great time to continue building your skill set with intention.
and our team is happy to
¤ Graduate Schools: Most graduate programs can be highly
help you find the right fit for
selective and competitive. Key items to research: course preyour needs/career goals.
requisites, entrance exam requirements, application criteria,
and important dates and deadlines.
o Most graduate programs will require letters of recommendation. Start thinking about who
might best speak to your academic abilities.
¤ Networking: Your networking should start shifting from university-specific individuals to external
contacts. In addition to networking at career-specific events, mentoring programs can be
extremely beneficial.
YEAR FOUR: FOCUS ON GOAL ATTAINMENT
Whether you plan to move on to graduate school, start your own business, join the military, or start your
career, now’s the time to start taking action.
¤ Attend career events: WSU Career Expo is offered twice a year, in October and again in February.
Take advantage of connecting with employers from dozens of different industries.
o With a robust career team across campus, you will find there are MANY opportunities on
each WSU campus to engage with employers. Make sure to check Handshake for all your
opportunities.
¤ Stary applying for Graduate School: Most graduate school applications open in the Fall and are
due in January. Make sure you have an application plan in place for maximum opportunity.
¤ Start applying for positions: We encourage you to start applying about 4-6 months prior to
graduation. Most employers do the bulk of their hiring in the Fall, even if you do not plan to
graduate until the Spring, don’t hesitate to start applying early.
Feeling overwhelmed or don’t know where to start? No problem. Set up an appointment with a career
coach in Handshake today. We have appointments available Monday-Friday from 8-5.
5 | Career & Resume Guide for Cougs, 2024 Edition
