CDev Shares Tips to Help Land a Job

For those struggling with their career preparations 

Jessica Mills / Contributor / The USD Vista

In the busy day-to-day schedule of the average college student, it’s easy to overlook the importance of planning for one’s career. Most students are just trying to finish assignments with approaching deadlines so mapping out plans for a job in the real world might be the last thing on their minds. But whether it’s someone’s first or last semester at USD, creating a blueprint for the future is imperative. 

Now that  students face  the tough reality of choosing life-long career choices, answering “What do you want to be when you grow up?” may require more guidance. 

While a major part of college includes taking classes, learning new skill sets, and even earning good grades, a common objective is to be “career ready.” Which is why students are provided with access to great resources in the Career Development Center (CDev). 

Their three steps — “know yourself, explore, and take action”— are part of a simple model to help one’s journey for career development. 

Sue Kelly, Assistant Director of Career Exploration and Experiential Learning, in the CDev, shared three tips to help with the daunting task of planning for the future.

“First, come into the Career Development Center, we would love to help you in this process. Understand the phase you’re currently in, whether that’s exploring different career choices, building your resume, finding internships or volunteer opportunities, or even practicing interviewing and networking,” Kelly said. “Questioning your position in career  readiness allows for an honest beginning point.” 

While parts of campus and curriculum have evolved since Kelly’s graduation at USD in the class of ‘89, the importance of career planning remains.

CDev also plans a multitude of events throughout each semester to help students explore possibilities in their majors, minors, and careers.

Kelly outlined some of the projects she’s helped create and their benefits. 

“We help plan events and panels that offer unique opportunities for students to speak with alumni, different professors, and those in the workforce,” Kelly said. “Using these events to ask questions and network are so advantageous and often help make the job mapping process less intimidating.” 

The third step, “take action,” also requires some exploration. Whether that’s looking at different career paths or even the possibility of attending graduate or doctorate school, Kelly recommends that students go on a “Torero Trek,” have a mock interview in the Career Center, attend Career Fairs, and ask for opportunities to talk with mentors and alumni for post-grad advice. Utilizing these resources creates a clearer path for one’s future. Talking to counselors with real world experience positions students ahead of those who haven’t been afforded this opportunity.

There are different appointment options that center around resume building, career readiness programs, and questions regarding COMPASS, Connect, and Passport. There are even appointments available for students that aren’t sure where to begin. But, no matter what stage one is at in their career planning process, CDev has great  resources to help. 

To make an appointment at the CDev one can visit the USD website under the “careers” section and follow the link labeled “make an appointment.” 

Their office is located in Manchester Hall 101, appointments are also offered over the phone and Zoom. 

Overall, CDev is here to alleviate any jitters one may have for the post-grad world. In providing resources, events, and support, students are able to prepare for a strong future in the competitive job landscape.