By: Alejandra Ruiz, DePaul University honors marketing major ‘16
Stop what you’re doing! Take a step back, and enjoy the moment.
These past few months have been flying right past us, and we haven’t had a chance to enjoy our last year as undergrads. Two months from today we will be walking across the stage, saying goodbye to friends, professors, and for some, to Chicago. We’ve been so focused on getting good grades, finding a job, and trying to be ‘official’ adults that we’ve forgotten the most important thing – to enjoy the ride.
Whether or not you have plans after graduation, there are a few steps that you need to take before you walk across that stage:
- Build your Network. I know, I know, you’ve been hearing this from everyone. But it is truly essential. I’m not asking you to go talk to people you don’t know. I’m just saying that you could have a great network of people if you stay in touch with classmates, professors, office staff, coaches, and pretty much anyone here at DePaul. It is simple; connect with your classmates via LinkedIn, Facebook, or other social media outlets. With professors, you can do the same, but it will be more beneficial if you get to talk to them one-on-one before you leave. Remember, finding a job after college isn’t just about “what” you know, but “who” you know. From experience, connecting with a professor will help you reach mountains you never thought were possible in such an early start of your career.
- Visit the Career Center. I know we’ve all been avoiding meeting with our career advisors, it’s a nerve-wracking situation. But to be honest, going through that experience of meeting with them is very much needed. I can assure you, there is no one more dedicated and knowledgeable. They will help you through each step – from revising your resume, to showing you where and how to apply, to connecting you with people and events, and, they even help with mock interviews. Trust me, as a senior going through the scary process of searching for a job, my career advisor has been of great help!
I encourage you to not only follow these tips, but to also enjoy the last few months you have here at DePaul. Make sure to take some time to walk around campus, eat that disgusting Student Center food, watch a game, visit your dorm hall, and reflect on the past four years of your life. DePaul has been the best four years of my life so far, and I’m excited to see what’s coming my way. Congratulations to all graduating seniors, and I hope my short checklist will help you finish your undergrad with a BAM!