��Vlog: Internships and Careers Blog

3 Mature Personality Traits You Need to Start Your Career

2026-04-24T22:57:38.889616-04:00

The idea of a career is quite exciting, especially your first. A career can provide a new graduate with a lot of benefits, including a sense of independence and financial stability. However, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for what’s to come. One way to do that is to cultivate certain traits and skills that will help you in the working world. Consider these three crucial workplace traits to determine whether you’re ready to begin this new chapter of your life.

1. Sense of responsibility

One of the most essential attributes a potential employee can have is a willingness to take on responsibilities. When being assigned tasks at work, no matter how large or small, you must be ready to complete them. Many different responsibilities may come your way—such as projects, presentations, and more—that will require varying amounts of time and effort to do. To manage everything, you must be quick on your feet and ready to meet deadlines. As a student, you’ve had responsibilities like this, such as completing your homework or studying for tests. If you found a way to do that for school efficiently, you’re on the road to success. If you feel you need to improve this skill, increase your course load while in school or pick up additional extracurriculars. Just be careful to not overload yourself and only add what you can handle. Take time to reflect on your responsibilities and how you’re managing them, plus where you could improve in terms of balance.

2. Cooperativeness

Being able to work well with others is also a much-needed skill in the working world. Communication is key when it comes to teamwork, and it’s something that can always be improved. In any job setting, you’ll be faced with individuals from all kinds of backgrounds and walks of life. It’s important to respect others’ beliefs and opinions, learn how to avoid unnecessary conflict, and work through problems to see eye-to-eye with others. Cooperation is most needed in projects that require a group effort, where each employee may be assigned a specific task, working together to accomplish common goals and deliver a successful product. Think of times when you had to work with other classmates on school projects. You may not have agreed with all your peers, but you still had to respectfully work together to reach a point of completion. Continue to ponder on how you can improve your collaborative skills in your daily interactions with others, then apply this to your future interactions with coworkers.

3. Adaptability

Adapting to your surroundings and any changes that come your way is necessary when dealing with work environments. Your career won’t be stagnant over time, although it may be a little more stable when you first start. This means that changes and shifts may occur, such as differences in scheduling, receiving unfamiliar work assignments, having new coworkers come into the work setting, shifting to work-from-home from in-person work, and more. These changes can be exciting but may also be difficult to adapt to, so it’s crucial that as an employee, you work with them and find ways to adjust. As a student, you’ve encountered change often, from taking on more advanced classes and having different teachers year to year to switching or beginning new extracurriculars and more. Learning to deal with different kinds of life changes can only benefit you, as you’ll develop new skills and perspectives when you face them. Adapting well to change contributes to your professional growth and can help prepare you for anything that may come your way during your career.

Along with these characteristics, there are many more that can greatly help you when it comes time to finding and succeeding in a suitable career. It’s highly important to develop traits such as these over time to be ready when future opportunities arise. Overall, seek to improve in your daily tasks as a student and have a mindset that consistently pursues professional advancement.

Still wondering what your workplace life might be like after college? Find more great advice like this in our Internships and Careers section.

Career Mentors in College: Who Are They and Why Are They Important?

2026-04-24T22:57:38.886960-04:00

Students often get so caught up in the excitement of living on campus, making friends, pursuing a major, and living the college life in general that they forget about all the career-forging opportunities colleges offer. You have a unique chance to learn from mentors in your fields of interest, and you should be taking advantage of it. You may feel more motivated to make professional connections by understanding the many benefits you stand to gain from entering a mentorship. Here's what you should know.

What is a career mentor?

A career mentor is someone currently working in your desired profession who can help you learn more about it. After building a relationship with this mentor, they’ll help you find your niche and set long-term career goals to make your postgraduate job more fulfilling. You’ll likely keep in touch with your mentor after graduation as well; a recent survey found that graduates who continued consulting their mentors after starting their careers were twice as likely to feel engaged at work and motivated from the support of their mentor.

The benefits of having a career mentor

The idea of meeting with someone more experienced in the field than you can be intimidating. It’s even more nerve-wracking to admit you don’t know as much as you’d like to about your future career. Take a deep breath and focus on the many positive aspects of connecting with a mentor. After finding someone who’s the right fit for your personality and learning style, you’ll experience fantastic benefits and better define your professional future.

Gain job experience

Research shows that employers want experienced applicants who know how to solve problems in real time. You’ll be able to communicate and work more effectively than other applicants if you’ve spent time in your field under the guidance of a mentor. In addition to being a competitive applicant, the hands-on experience will help you understand if you’ve chosen the right career path or need to switch majors.

Get personalized advice

Anyone can look up information about a job online. You’ll find open positions with posts that describe the role’s responsibilities, but there’s nothing like getting in-depth details from someone currently working your dream job. You’ll be able to ask your mentor questions about their strengths and weaknesses and what they would’ve done differently at your age. Your career will develop much easier through the lens of their wisdom.

You’ll receive unbiased opinions

Your family members and friends want the best for you, but their advice can sometimes be biased. They may want you to live closer to home or tell you something inaccurate because they would rather you work a different job. Your career mentor will approach your conversations from the perspective of a boss or coworker to give you the best shot at a successful career and honest opinions about your goals.

How to find a career mentor

There are a few ways to find a career mentor in college. First, start applying for jobs, internships, or volunteer opportunities related to your careers of interest. You’ll meet people in that field and can find a mentor organically. You can also reach out to your school’s career center to ask if they have a list of people who want to volunteer their time. Students seeking mentors can also attend networking events on campus to form lasting relationships with leaders who work in your potential field.

Finding a career mentor in college is important because they make it easier for you to shape your future. You’ll learn real-time information about your desired career path, how much money you might make, which skills are most important to future employers, and what professional opportunities are available to you. Think about connecting with mentors as you start applying for jobs or internships. You’ll have the chance to ask whatever questions you like and feel more confident about your future.

Haven’t even began to think about life after college? Why not start right now with these 4 Great Ways to Start Thinking About Your Future Career?

5 Flexible Part-Time Jobs for High School and College Students

2026-04-24T22:57:38.884486-04:00

Holding down a job as a student can be difficult whether you’re in high school or college. While earning money is a great motivator, it can be hard to find a job that’s flexible enough to work with your class schedule and busy life. Whether you’re looking to earn some pocket money in high school or minimize your student debt through college, here are some flexible options to consider in your job search.

1. Tutoring

If you excel in one or more academic areas, tutoring could be a good job for you. Not only does it pay well— typically between $15–$20 per hour—but it offers you almost unheard-of flexibility. After all, you’re the one providing the service, so you get to set a schedule for your clients. Another added benefit is the extra practice you’ll gain. Whether you’re a high school senior tutoring younger students for the SAT or AP exams or a college student offering tutoring for higher level courses, once you establish yourself as a reliable tutor, you’re sure to have plenty of business. The hardest part about this part-time job is getting started and finding people to tutor, but with a little networking and time, you should have a solid source of income.

2. Childcare

Childcare comes with a wide range of possibilities, from nanny or after-school worker to babysitter or extracurricular instructor. Working with children can be both flexible and lucrative. And, if you enjoy being around kids, it’s also rewarding. If you’re working with children over the ages of four or five, they’ll be in school for most of the day, meaning your hours won’t begin until at least 3:00 pm, likely after your own classes have concluded for the day. Plus, some babysitting may even allow you time to get homework done as children nap or play with each other. Getting into the industry can take on a lot of forms. You can find positions by word-of-mouth, applying at a childcare center, or marketing yourself online through services such as Care.com. You may also want to consider taking a child safety class and getting your First Aid and CPR certification. While pay rates vary by the specifics of your responsibilities, childcare is typically one of the more profitable industries, especially if you can establish yourself as a dependable and responsible caregiver.

3. Coffee shop barista

While a barista’s schedule is harder to control than some other jobs, it’s still far more flexible than many entry-level hourly positions. In my experience, most shifts are shorter than the average fast-food restaurant. Coffee shops also open early in the morning, giving you the chance to get in a four- or five-hour shift before your classes start in college (if you’re a morning person). If you’re in high school, you can work after school or on the weekends potentially until close; chains such as Starbucks don’t typically close their doors until 8:00 pm. Keep in mind that wages vary widely based on what coffee shop you work for and whether it’s a chain or local business. A perk of this job is you’ll likely receive tips (and free coffee); not to mention, some coffee chains offer tuition assistance and other student-friendly programs. A lot of students pursue these jobs, which should mean managers are familiar with the flexibility you’ll need.

4. Freelance Delivery Driver

DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Instacart are always looking for reliable delivery drivers, and the good news is that they all have very flexible hours! You can apply to be a freelance driver and choose when you can pick up and deliver orders in your spare time. While DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats mainly specialize in picking up takeout orders from restaurants, Instacart workers are responsible for shopping for groceries and delivering them. All four options provide hassle-free flexibility and high-demand evening hours that tend to line up with a student’s free time. Of course, this does require you to have a driver’s license and access to a car. If you’re a high school student, check with your parents before jetting across town as a delivery driver, especially if you’re using their car.

5. Fitness instructor, referee, or coach

If athletics are your thing, you may enjoy working as a fitness instructor, referee, or coach. Whether you dream of leading Zumba a few nights a week or coaching little league soccer, these jobs offer the flexible evening and weekends hours many students look for. Consider becoming certified to referee YMCA games and enjoy making a few bucks while getting to be active and watch sports. Although some level of certification is usually required to teach or coach, most sports academies will help you get certified for minimal expense and time. One of the biggest benefits of choosing an athletics-based job is you can roll your work and exercise time into one!

These are just a handful of part-time jobs that may work well with your schedule as a student; in reality, your options are endless. Find an area of work you’re at least somewhat interested in and search for part-time jobs with decent pay that work with your schedule. Although you’ll be busy, working a part-time job as a student will help you hone your real-world skills, build your résumé, and prepare you for the world ahead.

For even more advice on finding great flexible gigs, check out our article on Part-Time Jobs and Money-Making Ideas for Students.

Important Steps to Succeed Before, During, and After Your Internship

2026-04-24T22:57:38.882053-04:00

Starting a new internship can be scary with all the new people, expectations, and responsibilities. But interning is a great way to gain experience, work on your leadership skills, and get a leg up on the competition, whether it’s for college admission or the postgrad job search. To get the most out of your internship, you’ll want to make a great impression. Here’s what you should do to ensure you have a successful internship experience.

The first day of your internship

Before you start your internship, you should research the company and find out what clothes are appropriate; some offices want employees to dress to impress, while others are more casual, so don’t be afraid to email your supervisor with questions. Then on the first day, find your boss and formally introduce yourself if you haven’t met in person already. Showing this initiative is a great way to impress your internship leaders and establish a good reputation early on in your workplace. Also remember that you’re there to learn new things; you’re not going to know everything, so asking questions shows your advisors that you care about doing your job correctly. Don’t be afraid of what others think of you; instead, focus on being the best you can be and aim for constant improvement.

Throughout your internship

It’s important to remember that an internship will look good on your résumé, but most of all, it’s good for you too. Be willing to accept assignments and learn from them, no matter how mundane they may seem. Also continue to ask questions and reflect to improve your future performance. After you’ve been in your position for a couple of weeks, you’ll want to ask your supervisor for feedback. Again, the purpose of an internship is to learn, so asking for feedback on your work and areas in which you can improve will give you a new perspective from someone more experienced in your field of interest. This can also help you determine if this field and type of work are right for you.

After receiving feedback, this is a chance to revise and implicate that advice to improve your skills. Show your advisors that you’re retaining the information they’re giving you. Practicing hard and soft skills in the workplace is helpful when you’re in college or trade school and need to employ those skills in an educational field. It’s also important to make friends and connections with your colleagues. Today’s society is all about networking—the more people you know, the more people you can meet and the more opportunities you can find. Making a good impression with a large group of people can connect you to many useful networks in your future, so don’t neglect this important part of the internship process.

After your internship

For high school interns, colleges want to know about your internship experience. They also want to know about you, your work ethic, and your personality. They can find all this out through letters of recommendation. Asking a trusted person—such as a mentor from the place where you interned—if they would be willing to write you a letter in the future is an amazing way to put yourself in a good light with colleges while highlighting your strengths and proving your accountability. This is also important for college interns who’ll be looking for jobs after they graduate.

Finally, use your internship experience to your advantage! You did a hard thing, and you learned from that thing, so use it. Apply the skills you learned to your daily life and write about your experience. Tell colleges or interviewers how the experience affected you and why this field is your passion.

While internships are educational experiences that typically remain professional, the most important thing is to be yourself. Colleges and employers want to know who you are. Show them the real you, including your quirks, talents, and weaknesses. Most of all, express your passion while showing advisors that you care and are willing to work hard for your dreams. With confidence, respect, and dignity, you’ll succeed on the first day of your internship and beyond.

Wondering what you might do as an intern? Learn all about it with our article on Types of College Internships and What They're Really Like.

Hands-on Opportunities in College: Interning at the Super Bowl

2026-04-24T22:57:38.879788-04:00

Any internship experience looks good on a résumé, but there’s something super exciting about saying you got to work at the Super Bowl. That’s what I did in February 2023, when I had the amazing opportunity to intern at Super Bowl LVII in Glendale, Arizona. The experiences my group and I had the chance to participate in are ones I will never forget. Here’s how I landed this internship, what I did during the week-long experience, and my advice on how you can find awesome internships and other opportunities like this in college.

How I found my internship

This opportunity was offered to me by the Dean of the College of Hospitality, Tourism, and Sport at Niagara University. All students in the College received an email telling us about the internship. It stated that to apply, we needed to submit a résumé and cover letter and be willing to go through an interview process. As a Sport Management major, I immediately applied as soon as I received the email because I knew this could be an amazing opportunity to further my future career as well as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In the end, the coordinators of this internship picked nine students to represent Niagara at Super Bowl LVII.

Leading up to the big game

When we arrived in Arizona, we immediately went to State Farm Stadium to take a tour of the facility, get our uniforms, and receive work assignments for game day. The next day, we started working at the FansFirst Super Bowl Experience in the Phoenix Convention Center. We worked there Thursday, Friday, and Saturday leading up to Super Bowl Sunday. While in the Convention Center, some of us were in charge of kid-friendly games and scanning tickets. Others oversaw lines for attractions like the Lombardi Trophy, Super Bowl rings, and autographs from NFL players. The energetic atmosphere was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Those three days were filled with excited, vibrant fans who were counting down the hours to the big game.

Super Bowl Sunday

On game day, we were posted in the suite level of State Farm Stadium where we directed media down to the field—especially during halftime and the post-game festivities—and answered any questions the media or others had. Being posted right outside the press box, we were able to see and feel the energy of all the workers. Excitement spread as we got closer to kickoff, but everyone was focused and motivated in their duties to pull off the best Super Bowl possible. Being behind the scenes at one of the biggest sporting events in the world was such a unique experience. There’s so much that goes into pulling off an event of this caliber, with around 10,000 teammates who worked on game day. Watching previous Super Bowls on TV, I never questioned what went on outside the players on the field. To see it firsthand made me realize there was so much more that goes into the event than I ever could’ve imagined.

Connecting the experience to college and career

This experiential learning opportunity helped me work on my networking and was a huge boost to my résumé. On the first night my group arrived, we attended a networking event for an organization called Uncommon Sports Group. There were a myriad of different colleges and universities represented as well as a panel of many successful people in sports. Connecting with them and other college students interested in working in the athletic industry was incredibly valuable. At the end of the week, we also took a tour of the Athletic Facility at Grand Canyon University. We met the athletic directors and learned about facility upkeep and what decisions they’ve made to enhance their athletic program and why.

General internship advice

If you’re wondering if your school offers unique internships like this one, a great place to start is to talk to your dean or faculty advisor about available opportunities. It never hurts to just ask if there are any internships you would be interested in. Being flexible and willing to try new things in your field is extremely important. Don’t rule out an opportunity just because you haven’t considered it before—maybe you’ll love it and make it your future career! Throughout my internship, I met so many new people and made new connections. With any opportunity, it’s important to continue networking and build on relationships you started, as they’re extremely beneficial to furthering your career. Reach out to anyone you meet periodically and keep in touch! Lastly, get comfortable being uncomfortable. Throwing yourself into a new situation can be scary, but it can also be a good learning experience. Even if a role doesn’t work out, you’ll at least know it isn’t the right career path for you.

Working at Super Bowl LVII was a rewarding opportunity I’ll be forever grateful to have been a part of. This experience helped me focus more on what I would like to do for a career in the future, and it was helpful to learn new things about the sports industry. The fast-paced, exciting, hard-working environment made for an amazing Super Bowl and a thrilling work experience.

We’ve got all the tips you could ever need to find and succeed in career development opportunities with Our Best Advice on How to Find and Rock Internships.

How to Create a Fresh Professional Wardrobe for Internships and First Jobs

2026-04-24T22:57:38.877329-04:00

Finding your style as a young professional can be difficult and a little intimidating—because odds are your college style was more laidback most of the time. If the jobs you held as a high school or undergraduate student involved food service or general labor, your wardrobe may be full of T-shirts with logos and comfortable shoes for the Saturday brunch rush, while the rest of your wardrobe is probably packed with clothes that you love but wouldn’t be appropriate for an interview, internship, or professional career. Save your slinky backless dress for a night out dancing and keep your favorite baggy sweatshirt in the drawer for a lazy Saturday. Let’s lay out the basics for your new professional wardrobe that will work for any office situation!

Professional wardrobe basics

Building a professional wardrobe from the bottom up can seem daunting, but if you stick to the basics to start, you can learn what you like and don’t like, what holds up in the wash, and what feels both flattering and comfortable during an eight-hour workday. Searching through an online clothing boutique is an easy and hassle-free way to stock up on high-quality clothes that will fit your new lifestyle. Look for pieces in neutral colors to start until you can figure out the general style of other people you work with. You can either emulate their style or move a little bit outside the box with brighter colors and textures. Start with a few shirts in the colors of your choice, but always buy at least one white and one black, as these are the easiest to match with.

Now what about bottoms? For pants, ankle length looks professional and elegant with Oxfords, heels, or flats. If you’re more of a skirt person, buy yourself at least one shorter skirt (but no shorter than knee length!) and one longer one for colder weather. Also, consider that air conditioning usually makes offices much colder than outside. Plan to purchase sweaters or blazers to match your outfits so you don’t become the office popsicle. Many people keep one or two sweaters or blazers exclusively at the office for whenever they need them.

Pay close attention to shoes

Shoes are such an important part of any outfit, professional or not. The right pair of shoes can make you feel like you’re on top of the world, and the wrong ones can ruin your day—maybe even your whole week if you end up with blisters. Finding shoes that give you comfort and confidence while matching your new professional vibe can provide you the boost you need to do your best in a new role.

Now, the eternal question—to heel or not to heel? As Carrie Bradshaw says, “I’m not afraid of heights—have you seen my shoes?!” While heels may not be the most practical choice, they can certainly make picking out an outfit for work seem like an exciting prospect. If you aren’t inclined to wear heels, you can still find shoes that make you feel like a corporate rockstar even while you’re doing paperwork on a random Tuesday.

Again, consider temperature, especially in the summer when you might find yourself wanting to wear sandals or slingbacks on a hot day. If you’re prone to cold feet, the office air conditioning is going to turn them into ice cubes in no time. Stick to pumps or loafers with no-show socks to keep your feet a little warmer. And again, try neutral colors for your first few pairs; you can branch out into some statement shoes after you gauge the vibe of your new workplace.

Professional attire for entrepreneurs

If your plans after graduation don’t involve working for someone else, you’ll still need to find a professional style that makes you feel great and ensures that others will take you seriously as an entrepreneur. While this doesn’t necessarily mean you need to bop around town in a suit intimidating people, you should find a personal business style that fits what you do and keeps you comfortable as well. If you’re working freelance jobs, you can opt for sleek lines and structured tops, perhaps with well-tailored chinos or skirts. If you’re starting your own business or running a restaurant or bakery, use the traditional uniforms of those industries to inspire your professional workwear. Structured black and white pieces, perhaps mixed with some subtle prints and simple accessories, can pay homage to the origins of your industry without forcing you into a pair of boxy chef pants.

Remember: Your new company wants you because of your talent, not because you’re a spiffy dresser. If you don’t have the budget right now for a brand-new professional wardrobe, it won’t affect your job performance or the way your coworkers view you. Find a thrift store and use that to get by for the first few months. Just find pieces that make you feel good in your body and your profession. No matter what you wear, you deserve to feel great at your job. Find a wardrobe that boosts your confidence and helps you express yourself in your new workplace. Wear your favorite colors, break in your new shoes before your first day, and be the brightest you can be!

Find more helpful advice to start your new job on the right foot in our Internships and Careers section.

How to Land a Great Job Using Your Rich Study Abroad Experience

2026-04-24T22:57:38.874738-04:00

Study abroad experience can help you land a job after college because it gives you a unique advantage in the professional market. Employers seek motivated and experienced individuals, so the skill sets they look for align with what you learned on your international academic journey. You can work this information into your résumé and interviews to set yourself apart from other candidates—all it takes is some creativity and critical thinking.

Start searching for relevant jobs

Most employers seek candidates with specific skill sets—including independence, problem-solving, hands-on learning, and flexibility. You’ll have many of those unique qualities as someone who studied abroad. That experience can help you land a job if you look for appropriate options. For example, you could work as a language tutor, even if you’re only fluent in English. Your campus likely has a wealth of opportunities as well—there are usually plenty of internships and on-campus jobs to choose from before stepping into a career. Many businesses seek out college-aged candidates because they’re very receptive to training. You can probably easily find work, so it’s more about looking for something that aligns with your goals, field, and experience you’ve gained overseas.

Use your connections to other students and professionals

Your study abroad experience was a networking opportunity, even if you didn’t realize it. The professors and peers you studied with can become connections to the professional world. They could even provide you with the opportunity to work internationally. Whether you wait until you graduate, work remotely, or go abroad with a temporary work visa over the summer, utilizing your study abroad network is an excellent way to open more doors and stand out among a sea of applicants.

How to highlight study abroad experience on your résumé

Fitting your time abroad into a few bullet points can seem challenging, but it’s easy when you give it enough thought. Each of your experiences should connect to the professional field you want to go into in some way. Think about what stands out to you and include the most relevant and impactful information for the position you’re interviewing for.

Consider what you learned

Before you start adding to your résumé, take note of what you learned during your study abroad experience. What stands out the most about it? Consider how it helped you grow and what skills you gained. For instance, research has found that people who study abroad have 0.16 more GPA points on average than those who don’t. Tie your academic experiences and performance to your career goals when highlighting what you accomplished and learned.

Use relevant information

Examine how your experience directly relates to the jobs you’re applying to. Employers will appreciate specifics, so try to connect your study abroad skills to potential workplace responsibilities. For example, adapting to different cultures translates to flexibility and receptiveness, which is important to working well with a team in the workplace.

Highlight special skills

Most organizations have piles of résumés full of great candidates. Many of them will be like you, so use your time studying abroad to stand out from the rest. Focus on things that make you unique. You probably picked up a lot of special skills abroad that others won’t have. Including them on your résumé makes you appealing to employers and could increase your chances of landing a job. For example, knowing a foreign language makes you much more likely to get a job in any career field. Mentioning it briefly with powerful wording can make a bigger impression on a potential employer. Few people get such a unique, hands-on learning experience, so they’ll immediately take notice.

Demonstrate your uniqueness during your interview

Studying abroad inherently makes you a unique candidate because it’s not as common as it should be. Your experience in a foreign environment reflects well on you because you interacted with diverse groups. Businesses want someone who can adapt quickly to their workplace. Adjusting to a new job is easier when you’ve already spent time fitting into an entirely new culture, so work it into the conversation during an interview. Employers look for people with such backgrounds because it makes their transition smoother and shows they can adapt to new situations well.

Landing a job in your desired field can seem challenging when so many others are applying, but your time studying abroad can help you succeed. Reflect on how your once-in-a-lifetime experience aligns with your academic path and career goals. It likely strengthened many of your unique qualities, which translates well to a professional environment.

Once you’ve got your résumé squared away, get ready for your next steps with these 5 Typical Questions to Prepare With for Your First Job Interview.

What Are New Grads Missing? The Top 4 Career Skills to Learn Now

2026-04-24T22:57:38.871095-04:00

A college education is largely seen as the golden ticket to a solid career. But does college really make you a better, more promising, and competitive employee? I’ve been a business owner and employer for almost 20 years in fields spanning from law to construction. Experience has shown me that recent college grads lack a core group of soft skills that are critical in the workplace and other professional environments. Here are four crucial skills to master for most careers that you should work on ASAP, whether you’re just starting college or about to graduate.

1. How to participate in small talk

Small talk is a crucial stepping stone to improving how we interact with other people, creating connections, and forging relationships—all of which are key to making an impact and advancing in the workplace. Employers look for this and other soft skills during the hiring process as it’s the first step in most conversations and makes it easier to adjust to a new work environment. The ability to converse well, in essence, allows you to empathize with people and forge deeper connections. However, the ability to converse and make small talk receives little emphasis in college and can be weakened through lack of exercise. MIT Sociology Professor Sherry Turkle noted in her New York Times opinion piece, “We live in a technological universe in which we are always communicating. And yet we have sacrificed conversation for mere connection.”

2. How to be persuasive

After establishing trust through basic conversation and relationship building, you can guide another person’s thoughts toward an intended outcome by learning the art of persuasion. Managers value persuasive employees because these are the individuals who can promote and sell products and services, make deals, and establish beneficial connections. They’re also the ones trusted to manage others and thus often get promoted. In college, persuasion skills can be acquired through courses in debate, logic, and philosophy. But they are often best acquired and honed beyond the classroom in your everyday life.

3. How to look at things analytically

Analytic skills are key to both work and so many real-life situations. Analytical thinking begins with one simple thing: asking good questions. This skill can be acquired in the classroom and developed through a wide range of extracurricular activities as well as off-campus experiences. Start by researching things you’re interested in. Make a point of finding answers for yourself instead of taking what you are told at face value. Once you’ve found your first answers, ask even more questions, like:

What does this mean?
Is there any inconsistency here?
What can I do with this information?
How can I apply this information to real life?

4. How to take initiative

From inquiry flows initiative, by far considered one of the most valuable attributes in the workplace. For example, one of my employees in construction once researched Salesforce software to improve our customer relationship management (CRM) and discovered it could be expanded to include construction progress. He then set his mind to programming the available software to link construction progress to our reporting system and track the sales cycle from initial prospect all the way to project completion. His initiative saved our company time, money, and effort, greatly increasing his value as an employee. Being well educated doesn’t just mean attending college and leaving with a degree; it means developing a toolkit of essential skills that are necessary to succeed in one’s chosen field. An emerging trend right now among federal and state hiring authorities is to eliminate the degree requirement for many government jobs and pivot toward skill-based assessments.

Because these and other valuable soft skills are not necessarily taught during the standard college experience, students must be intentional about acquiring them through activities such as internships and summer jobs. Whether you develop these skills in college or outside of it, I hope this overview will help prepare you to thrive in your personal endeavors and the workforce.

It’s never too early or too late to learn important career skills—and CX can help with just about all of them! Check out Our Best Advice on Building Important Skills as a Student to start leveling up.

5 Important Ways Extracurriculars Can Help Your Future Career

2026-04-24T22:57:38.866141-04:00

Extracurriculars like sports, clubs, volunteer work, and hobbies are often just considered a fun part of school or a résumé booster for college admission. But these activities are more than just a break from academics—they also play a key role in helping students discover their interests, build valuable skills, and prepare for their future careers. Whether you dream of becoming a scientist, artist, entrepreneur, or anything in between, here’s how the extracurriculars you participate in provide valuable experiences that can shape your professional path.

1. Developing real-world skills

One of the biggest benefits of participating in extracurriculars is the chance to learn real-world skills that go beyond the classroom. For example, joining the debate club can help you learn how to speak in public, think critically, and present your arguments clearly—skills that are useful in almost any career. Similarly, working on the school newspaper can help you communicate more effectively, manage your time, and collaborate with others. Skills like these are essential in the workforce, where being able to organize tasks, communicate well, and solve problems is often what sets successful job applicants and employees apart.

2. Exploring your interests and passions

Extracurricular activities are a great way for students to explore what they’re passionate about. Finding time to try new things or dive deeply into specific interests can be hard, but after-school activities allow you to do just that, so it’s important to incorporate them into your busy schedule. For example, a student who loves animals might volunteer at an animal shelter, discovering they enjoy working with animals and helping others. This interest could later turn into a career as a veterinarian, biologist, or animal care professional. By trying different activities, you’ll get a better sense of what you enjoy and might even find a passion that leads to a future career.

3. Networking

Another benefit of extracurriculars is the chance to meet people—both peers and mentors—who can support, advise, and inspire. Joining a club or participating in school events brings you into contact with other students and community members who share similar interests, which can lead to new friendships and network connections for life. Mentors like coaches, teachers, and club advisors can also offer guidance and even help you with internships, letters of recommendation, or career advice down the line. These relationships can be incredibly valuable when it comes time to make both college and career decisions.

4. Learning responsibility and commitment

When you join an extracurricular activity, you often have to stick to a schedule, attend regular meetings or practices, and sometimes take on leadership roles. These tasks help build responsibility and commitment—qualities that are important for any job. Showing up consistently, being on time, and following through on commitments are habits that employers look for in job candidates. Extracurriculars give you a chance to practice these skills in a real setting, preparing you for expectations you’ll face in the working world.

5. Building confidence

Getting involved in extracurriculars can also help students build confidence. From performing in front of an audience to leading a group project to scoring a goal for the team, these activities allow you to experience success and even learn from setbacks in a supportive environment. Each time you overcome a challenge or achieve a goal in an extracurricular setting, you’ll gain a bit more self-assurance. This confidence can make a big difference in job interviews, presentations, and other professional situations.

Overall, extracurricular activities are a valuable part of career development, giving you opportunities to learn, grow, and discover your potential as a student and future professional. By joining activities and student groups (and sticking with them!), you can gain practical skills, find and nurture your passions, build connections, and grow more confident—all essential qualities for a successful career in any field you choose.

It pays to prepare for the working world, even in high school! Learn more about career prep and download our free worksheet to help you plan your future.

How to Transition to a High-Demand Career as a New Grad

2026-04-24T22:57:38.861452-04:00

Transitioning from college to the working world is exciting, especially if you’re considering competitive fields like data science, artificial intelligence, or software development. These industries are growing rapidly and offer abundant possibilities for graduates with the right skills and mindset.

However, breaking into popular fields requires adaptability, strategic planning, and persistence. The key to success lies in being proactive in skill development and leveraging your unique strengths. Focusing on in-demand roles as a data scientist, health care professional, cybersecurity expert, or software developer can position you as a strong candidate in a thriving career field, as the modern job market rewards those who are willing to learn and continuously evolve.

Identifying high-demand careers after college

Understanding the job market is critical for making informed career choices. Recent graduates can be reassured that the job market remains strong despite current uncertainties, with the health care, construction, leisure, and hospitality industries recently experiencing significant employment gains.

The global demand for skilled professionals in specific roles—such as data scientists, renewable energy consultants, and health care technologists—continues to surge. These industries are not just growing but becoming indispensable to the global economy. For instance, data science roles are anticipated to grow more than 30% over the next decade. Meanwhile, green energy and sustainability careers are emerging as essential sectors for tackling climate change and ensuring energy efficiency.

Employers increasingly prioritize talent who can adapt to evolving technologies and market needs. Flexibility and a willingness to learn are among the most sought-after qualities in new hires. By staying informed about growth industries and understanding their specific skill requirements, you can align your career aspirations with real-world, in-demand opportunities and carve out a niche in competitive fields.

Matching careers to your skills and personality

Your college experience has likely equipped you with transferable skills—such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication—that are valuable in high-demand fields. However, understanding how your unique strengths align with different career paths is crucial to finding fulfilling career choices. Aligning career decisions with your strengths and interests increases your chances of success and enhances job satisfaction in the long run.

Reflecting on your strengths

Take time to reflect on what you’re good at and what you’re genuinely interested in as well as how these things align with different career paths. To determine which field(s) may be right for you, ask important questions like:

Are you analytical and detail oriented? A role in data analysis or software development might be a great fit.
Do you enjoy solving complex problems? Consider roles in engineering or consulting.
Are you creative and enjoy designing solutions? Explore opportunities in product management, UX design, or digital marketing.

Considering your personality type

Aside from your strengths and interests, you should also consider career paths that fit your personality. If you’re an introvert who prefers to be quiet and is drained by too much socializing, a career as a veterinarian where you spend time with animals who aren’t chatty might be a good fit. If you’re attentive to others’ emotions and want to help people, consider becoming a nurse, counselor, teacher, or another role that’s rooted in caretaking. Take time to match your skills and personality to the right career, and you’ll find something you can see yourself doing proudly long-term.

Developing new skills and gaining experience

Breaking into high-demand industries often requires specialized knowledge and hands-on experience. While a college degree can open doors, additional certifications and practical skills can set you apart from other candidates. Online platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer various accessible courses to help you build technical and soft skills for your dream job.

For example, aspiring data scientists can benefit from certifications in Python programming, data visualization tools, and machine learning platforms. Similarly, graduates interested in cybersecurity can search for certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker, both of which can be a great asset for the job hunt. Additionally, building a strong portfolio that showcases your projects and achievements is essential for demonstrating your skills and expertise to potential employers.

Standing out in the job market

Today’s job market is very competitive, and you won’t succeed unless you distinguish yourself. Start by crafting a tailored résumé that highlights your unique achievements, skills, and experiences. Be sure to point out essential assets such as internships, freelance projects, or volunteering.

Focus on creating a detailed but succinct résumé that points out your achievements without overwhelming the reader. Consider also creating a strong LinkedIn profile to extrapolate on your experiences, showcase your professional brand, and connect with industry professionals.

Job search tips for introverts

Introverts, in particular, may feel apprehensive about the self-promotion required for job applications and interviews, but this is the time to develop your skills and learn how to market yourself. Use the strengths you already possess—such as active listening, thoughtful communication, and the ability to work independently—as leverage. Employers value these traits in team-oriented and analytical roles.

If you’re not up for group events or in-person networking, interact with professionals in your industry on various social media platforms. Authenticity and self-awareness can be all you need to make a lasting impression.

Securing your first job

Securing your first job after college can take longer than expected, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it less stressful and easily achievable. Decide on a specific career path and leverage your network to connect with opportunities. Attend industry events like conventions and seminars, join professional groups online and in person, and reach out to potential mentors. Building genuine connections with professionals in your field can lead to valuable advice and job opportunities.

When applying for jobs, focus on quality over quantity. Tailor each application to the specific role and organization by highlighting how your skills and experiences align with their needs. Research the company and prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your interest during interviews. Confidence, preparation, and a positive attitude can differentiate between getting hired or passed over.

Breaking into high-demand fields as a new graduate is a huge mountain to climb, but it is entirely possible with the right approach. Your adaptability and determination will set you apart. Whether you gain certifications, build a portfolio, or connect with industry professionals, the effort you invest now will pay dividends in the future. Embrace the process, believe in yourself, and confidently take charge of your professional journey.

Discover more expert advice to help you land the best role for you in our Internships and Careers section.

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