Three things you need to do in college to get a job

While higher education is designed to open up academic pursuits to give you a well-rounded education, the end goal for many students is being able to find a job. With the average cost of four-year college tuition reaching nearly $33,000 during the 2009-2010 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, you'll need to find a career quickly in addition to scholarships to pay off your loans. Here are three things you need to do as an undergraduate to help you find a job.

Get involved
If you think your college classes are enough to land you job interviews after graduation, think again. Just as you needed extracurricular activities in high school to be accepted into college, employers like to see that you pursued interests outside of the classroom.

Intern
While student clubs and organizations are a good place to start, you'll need to get off campus to gain some real professional experience to build your resume. Look for internship opportunities available through your school - many of these provide academic credit you can put toward graduating.

Network
Between intern supervisors, professors and work study bosses, you should be building relationships that can connect you with industry professionals after graduation. Whenever possible, try to foster friendships with these influential adults that extend beyond the scope of the classroom or workplace. Many colleges also hold alumni events that will allow you to network with successful graduates.

Be Sociable, Share!

•