Boosting Your Employability When Your GPA Doesn’t Tell the Full Story 

For many students, your GPA may feel like the defining factor in your academic success and how it might affect your professional future. However, the truth is that your potential isn’t determined by a number. It’s a combination of your skills, experiences, how you present yourself, and your character! 

If your GPA isn’t as high as you’d like, don’t worry. There are many ways to showcase your value and make yourself a competitive job candidate. Here are some ways to do that: 

  1. Building Your Skills: Regardless of your major or GPA, you can always improve your abilities in areas such as: 
    • Communication 
    • Project Management 
    • Technical Skills 
    • Marketing 

Take advantage of online platforms like  LinkedIn Learning,  Google Certifications, Coursera, and more. 

  1. Networking: Networking is one of the best ways to land opportunities. Attend career fairs, connect with alumni, and engage with professionals in your industry of interest. 
    • Use Handshake to view upcoming events hosted by Career Services and the Internship Office. 
    • LinkedIn is another great platform for connecting with professionals and alumni. It may feel daunting at first, but even sending a simple message can open doors for you! 
  1. Resume and Cover Letter: When crafting your resume and cover letter, focus on highlighting your strengths, experiences, skills, and accomplishments rather than emphasizing your GPA. Showcase leadership roles you’ve taken on and the impact you’ve made in previous positions. If you’d like additional guidance or a second opinion, connect with one of our Career Advisors for a one-on-one review and personalized feedback. 
  1. Interview Preparation: Preparation and confidence can help make up for a low GPA. Demonstrating your problem-solving abilities and adaptability gives employers a valuable insight into how you think and work. Practice answering interview questions and discussing your experiences so you can walk into your interview with confidence! 

Your GPA is just a small part of your story. It shouldn’t define the position you get or what you’re applying for. Gaining hands-on experiences, building skills, and effectively communicating your strengths can take you far in your journey. Prove your worth to employers! 

By Isabella Ventura
Isabella Ventura Career Peer Advisor