Finding a job is a process. Job functions and timelines may vary, but the required preparation is similar across all searches. Preparation includes exploring connections between majors and careers, industry research, building your professional network, and writing application materials like a resume and cover letter. Our career advisors and resources can help you prepare and strategize your search process.
Handshake is our career management database where you can access full-time professional positions, internships, career fair event information, on campus interview sign-ups and on-line resources. All students have an account with your @student.bridgew.edu email and corresponding password. Access Handshake today to see the organizations targeting BSU candidates.
The Indeed Job Search Academy is a free, virtual career development program brought to you by Indeed and Bridgewater State University to help you excel in your job search. The Academy focuses on mastering the 5 key areas of the job search so you feel confident every step of the way–because everyone deserves better work. BSU students and alumni have free access to this great resource!
Additionally, consider exploring opportunities through an industry-specific job board or general website. Here is a sample list of industry websites and career resources (note that we are not affiliated with these organizations):
- LinkedIn – Connect with industry professionals and BSU alumni, identify hidden connections
- Indeed.com – Search for internships, part-time, and full-time job opportunities
- O*Net – Review different types of occupations and possible career options
- Occupational Outlook Handbook – Learn more about career options in various sectors
- Idealist.org – Identify jobs, volunteering, and internships in the nonprofit sector
- SchoolSpring – Explore job opportunities in the Education sector
- USAJobs.gov – Find opportunities in the U.S. Federal Government
- APA.org/education-career/undergrad/research-opportunities – Locate psychology research opportunities
- Artjobs.artsearch.us – Locate arts-related internships and full-time positions
- Biospace.com – Explore biology-related opportunities
- Backstage.com – Check out acting-related gigs and positions
- Efinancialcareers – Gain insight into careers in finance
- Globaljobs.org – Search for international opportunities and careers
- Jobs.sciencecareers.org – Discover opportunities related to STEM
- Journalismjobs.com – Prepare for journalism-related careers
- Lawjobs.com – Find career opportunities related to law
- Mandy.com – Find jobs related to films and productions
- Mediabistro.com – Identify internships and jobs in media
- NSF.gov/crssprgm/reu/ – Explore undergraduate and graduate research opportunities
- Talent Fairy – Explore jobs and resources for students interested in writing and publishing
- Teamworkonline.com – Identify sports-related internships and full-time positions
- Topschooljobs.org – Find opportunities related to education
- Workforgood.org – Discover careers related to nonprofits
- Workinsports.com – Explore sports-related opportunities
Job Search Tips and Strategies
- Decide on 2–3 careers/job fields to pursue
- Network with friends, parents, faculty, alumni, and others to let them know goals and gain advice and referrals
- Apply to job postings and consider temporary work via temp agencies or gig sites
- Attend career fairs, company presentations, professional association meetings, and conferences
- Broaden the scope of job search to include alternative Plans A, B, and C as part of job search strategy
- Track your applications on a spreadsheet, save all of your materials including job descriptions
- Prepare for each interview by researching the organization and create a list of field-related questions to ask
- Follow up after job interviews with thank you emails or cards
- Research salaries/benefits and know how to negotiate when offers are made
- Be patient. A full-time job search takes time. Stay positive and take care of yourself throughout the process
Our Job Search Guide details how to get your job search started! We outline action steps, resources and tips that will help you make your first professional job search a success!
