Black Collegian Career Center

You, as college students, will face unlimited possibilities in the new millennium. You must, therefore, take advantage of opportunities while in school and excel academically. You must strive for at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average; demonstrate leadership skills; participate in classroom projects which demonstrate skills; have good oral and written communication skills; learn to speak a second language such as Spanish; and have the technical skills needed to operate computers.

As a second semester sophomore, junior, and senior, you should consider an internship or cooperative education. In most situations, internships are credit bearing. Co-op is always credit bearing and you may participate in the parallel or alternating programs. Parallel is when one works for an employer on a part-time basis and alternating is the full-time opportunity. Students may continue to pursue a full-time academic course load. Experiences such as these help you to gain marketable skills and give you an opportunity to have professional work experience in your major field of study. Thus, it provides valuable work experience needed for your resume.

When you enter the college/university of your choice, one of the first places to visit should be the Career Services office. Seek information on the services provided, the kinds of programs offered to students, and when you should begin to use the different services. Maintain contact with the career counselors; attend workshops and seminars, employer information sessions, and career and job fairs. Also, apply for internships, co-ops, and summer research programs; participate in the campus recruitment program and review job announcements, which will provide you with information on the kinds of opportunities available, and the kinds of skills sought by employers.

The Internet has brought about a new way of searching for a job/career. Corporations, government agencies, and school systems have web pages for public use. You should take advantage of the opportunity to learn about employment opportunities, co-op, and internships. Resumes and cover letters can now be submitted to your employer of choice via the Internet.

Professional employment is the ultimate goal of most students when they enter college. However, as freshmen, you should also consider whether or not you would like to pursue an advanced degree. Some of the undergraduate majors require that you obtain a master's or doctoral degree.Graduate/professional school is an option once you receive your bachelor's degree. You must excel academically to receive the kind of financial assistance such as fellowships, stipend, and assistantships to pursue your advanced degree. Participate in graduate/professional school information days and group sessions when colleges and universities visit your campus to recruit students. Consider applying for summer research programs.

Remember, that as students, you can never obtain too much information. Store all that you learn on paper and maintain a file of all information that is important to you and your future goals. At the end of your four years, you should be ready to move into a career or to pursue graduate/professional study.

Mary G. Johnson is the director of Career and Cooperative Education Services at Bowie State University in Bowie, MD.