Career Help

4 ways to stay motivated during your job search

Emily Sampl — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 20:30:11 +0000

4 ways to stay motivated during your job search Emily Sampl Tue, 03/18/2025 - 14:30 Career Services

Searching for a job or internship can be stressful, especially if you’re not hearing back from employers. When you don’t get responses from your applications, it can feel like being ghosted. It is completely normal to want closure even if that closure is just a simple “no.”

There are many reasons you might not hear back. Recruiters may not have time to review every application, they may not be able to respond to every candidate or your application may not have made it past the applicant tracking system (ATS). Whatever the reason, it’s important to remember a lack of response does not define you or the quality of your work.

If you’re struggling with the uncertainty of the job search process, here are a few ways to prioritize your mental health and stay motivated.

Maintain perspective

The internship and job application processes take time and involve multiple steps, including searching for open positions, updating your resume, writing cover letters and creating online profiles. Depending on where you are in your career journey, you may feel the pressure to secure a job or internship quickly. Remember, there is no definitive timeline for how long it should take you to secure a job.

The best practice is to start your search six to nine months ahead of time. Create a plan from these recommended action steps and decide what you want to prioritize. You can also use this search tracker to streamline the process. Planning your approach to applying for jobs in advance can help with stress and make the process more manageable.

Create balance

Pursuing interests and hobbies outside of the application process can boost your morale. Incorporate activities into your routine that keep you motivated to work towards your personal and professional goals.

Volunteering: Volunteering is a great way to build new skills while also getting involved with initiatives you care about. CUServes is an online platform where you can find volunteer opportunities from campus and community organizations.
Learning: As a student, you have access to resources to help you learn new skills or explore topics that excite you. Enhance your skills with video courses on LinkedIn Learning, simulate what it’s like to work in different job roles with The Forage or earn a free Google Career Certificate in a field that interests you.
Networking: Networking is about building connections. It can help you learn about different industries, meet mentors who can support you in your job search or lead to job opportunities in the future. Check out these networking tips from Career Services.

Prioritize well-being

It’s important to give yourself grace throughout this process. Searching for a job or internship should not consume your entire life. Make time to hang out with friends, relax, go outside and enjoy your favorite pastimes. Taking a break can refresh your mindset and help you reenergize.

Tip: Take the time to celebrate small victories along the way, whether it’s updating your application materials, applying to a certain number of jobs or attending a networking event.

Find support

Although you cannot predict or control when an employer responds to your application, Career Services offers several tools to help you maximize your chances in the application process.

Artifical intellegence resource guide
Most employers use an ATS to manage the volume of applicants, often reducing the number of candidates by 70%. Use this guide to tailor your documents to ATS, increasing your chances of making it through the initial screening stage.

Assessments and activities
Gain confidence in yourself by better understanding your interests, values and personality through assessment tools and activities.

Career help on demand
Utilize online tools designed to help you explore different majors, prepare for your job search, discover different career paths, build professional skills and more.

Job search resources
Access a variety of resources, tools and tips on networking, salary negotiation, interviews, resumes and more.

Career fairs, workshops and industry events
Career Services helps you position yourself for success through workshops, events, panels and more. There is support you every step of the way. If you have questions about the first or next step in your job and internship plans, schedule an appointment to meet with a career advisor.

If you’re struggling with the uncertainty of the job search process, here are a few ways to prioritize your mental health and stay motivated.

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7 steps to secure a job before graduation

Emily Sampl — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 21:05:07 +0000

7 steps to secure a job before graduation Emily Sampl Mon, 03/03/2025 - 14:05

Career Services

While it’s normal for the job search process to take months, there is still time for you to secure a job that aligns with your career goals before graduation. Career Services offers resources, workshops and career development advisors to help you with your search. Here’s how to effectively plan for life after college, secure a job and graduate feeling prepared for your future.

Step 1: Set goals and deadlines

Your last semester in college can be busy, especially with the added pressure of finding a job. To manage your time effectively, make a detailed plan with specific action items and deadlines. For example, set deadlines for creating online profiles, updating your resume and reaching out to people in your network for recommendation letters and informational interviews. Having an organized plan will help maximize your time and resources and make a better impression on employers.

Step 2: List your key experiences and skills

Before updating your resume or online profiles, consider the vital information you’ll highlight. Remember, you should tailor your documents to each job description. If you can articulate how your skills and experiences match the job requirements, you may gain an advantage in the hiring process.

Request a Skills Report to learn which skills are in demand for the positions or industries of interest to you.
Experience doesn't have to be limited to formal jobs. Be sure to include any campus jobs, volunteer work, organization memberships and leadership roles.
Add other activities like participation in sports and the arts as well to show that you are well-rounded and bring diverse skills and perspectives.

If you’re looking to gain more experience, Career Services offers access to a variety of opportunities that will stand out on your resume as well as to exceptional resources for finding internships. In addition, review this list of foundational skills and ways to build them.

Step 3: Optimize your online presence

A well-developed profile takes time to create and it’s crucial for building a positive professional reputation. Sloppy or incomplete profiles can give employers a negative impression. Here are a few tools to help you build an effective online presence:

Handshake is the top way college students find jobs. Use these helpful steps to set up your profile.
Your LinkedIn profile allows you to establish a professional presence, search for jobs and connect with CU alumni groups. Follow Career Services for more tips for planning your future.
Build an online portfolio using BuffsCreate to highlight your work and projects.
Use the free photo booth in the Career Services office to get the perfect professional photo for your online profiles.

Step 4: Craft effective job search documents

Your resume and cover letter are often the first impression you make on an employer. Learn how to write an effective resume and persuasive cover letter.

Take advantage of virtual office hours to have a peer career advisor review your documents and answer any questions you may have about the job search process.
Attend programs and workshops on writing resumes and job searching to ask questions and get more tips.
Want instant feedback on your resume? Quinncia is an online resume AI tool that provides personalized feedback on your resume.
Once your resume is updated, remember to upload it to your online profiles.

Step 5: Utilize your network

During your time at CU ��Vlog�ƽ��, you’ve likely built an extensive network including professors, mentors, classmates, coworkers and more. Leverage these connections to uncover job opportunities—let them know you’re looking for employment in May and would love referrals to open job opportunities.

Join the Forever Buffs Network to start connecting with CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� alumni. They can give resume feedback, help with interview preparation and serve as mentors.
Use LinkedIn to expand your network, learn about different industries and join conversations related to your career interests.

Step 6: Start your job search

You may have a sense of urgency to find a job before graduation but remember to focus your search on positions that interest you and are a good fit.

Find job postings on Handshake, LinkedIn and Indeed. Set up saved searches on these sites to learn about new postings that match your criteria.
If you are looking for employment in Colorado, check out Andrew Hudson’s Colorado Job List. This online job board frequently shares jobs in marketing, communications, public relations and nonprofits.
Check out industry-specific sites like Built In Colorado, Work In Sports and Conservation Job Board.
Connect with recruiters at career fairs and employer tabling events to learn about open positions and hiring timelines.

Step 7: Improve your interview skills

You will also want to prepare for in-person and virtual interviews as you search for jobs.

Schedule a practice interview with a career advisor or utilize Quinncia, an AI mock interview tool. This tool records your responses for review or sharing with others for their input.
Follow these tips for mastering your interview and making a positive impression.

Career Services is here to help you every step of the way. Learn more about getting started and other tools you can use during the job search process.

Graduating this semester? Review these tips to learn how to effectively plan for life after college, secure a job and graduate feeling prepared for your future.

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Upgrade your professional experience this semester

Emily Sampl — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 18:45:13 +0000

Upgrade your professional experience this semester Emily Sampl Wed, 01/29/2025 - 11:45

Career Services

Now is an excellent time to start thinking about what you can do this spring and summer for your future career success. Employers are looking for applicants who have demonstrated their skills through internships, relevant experiential projects and certifications. These experiences can also help you understand your future career goals—what you want out of a job and who you want to work for. Here are some opportunities to enhance your resume and gain professional experience during your time at CU ��Vlog�ƽ��.

Find an internship

Internship experience is the most influential factor for employers when hiring, according to a job outlook survey by NACE. This type of experience shows employers that you have direct experience applying your skills. As a CU student, you can access exceptional resources to find internships, including Handshake, internship credits and internship programs.

Handshake makes it easy to find and apply to internships, many of which aren’t posted anywhere else. Check out these curated Handshake search tips for your major.
Internships offer unique opportunities to gain real-world experience, develop new skills and make meaningful connections. Explore experiences like CU in D.C., Education Abroad, the CU Public Interest Internship Experience and more to find the right fit for your goals.

Earn a Google Career Certificate

Stand out in the job market by earning a free Google Career Certificate through Career Services. Learn from experts and gain skills in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, data analytics, IT support, digital marketing and more. These certificates show you have initiative and skills in specialized areas, helping you stand out to employers.

Try a job simulation

It is hard to know what a job will be like until you try it out. Job simulations are a risk-free way to experience a day-in-the-life working for some of the world's biggest brands and top companies. Companies like Red Bull, The New York Times, Bank of America and more host great job simulations for CU students on Forage.

Work on campus

CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� employs thousands of students each semester. On-campus jobs provide an opportunity for hands-on experiences, a flexible work schedule and access to a professional network. Whatever your goals or interests are, there’s a job for you. Explore available positions on Handshake and learn more about the benefits of working on campus.

Gain experience through volunteering

Volunteer experience can help you learn new skills, meet new people and make a positive difference. The Volunteer Resource Center has excellent opportunities to volunteer throughout the year with varying commitment levels and ways to contribute. Volunteering can be crucial to a future job or internship application to nonprofits or government agencies, and it can also help set you apart in your job search.

Set yourself up for success

Career Services helps students position themselves for success through workshops, events, training and other resources. Career Services can also help you prepare your resume for applications. Meet with a peer career advisor during scheduled office hours or schedule an appointment with a career advisor.

Here are some opportunities to enhance your resume and gain professional experience during your time at CU ��Vlog�ƽ��.

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Resume tips every college student needs

Emily Sampl — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:03:34 +0000

Resume tips every college student needs Emily Sampl Tue, 01/28/2025 - 10:03

Career Services

Your resume is often the first impression you make on an employer and plays a crucial role in landing an interview. Typically, employers only spend 10-30 seconds scanning it, so it’s important to produce an effective resume that is easy to read, highlights relevant experience and grabs their attention.

Here are a few tips and best practices to help you create a strong, strategic resume.

Keep it simple

Tailoring your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is a great way to increase your chances of making it past the initial screening stage. Most companies and organizations use an ATS to manage the volume of applicants, often reducing the number of candidates by 70%.

Follow these guidelines to ensure your resume is compatible with ATS:

Avoid using columns, text boxes, colors and graphics.
When it comes to fonts, limit yourself to three font sizes and one font style.
Pull keywords from the job posting or the mission and values of the organization and incorporate them in your resume.

As a student, you have access to Quinncia—an online AI tool that provides free personalized feedback on your resume. Quinncia’s in-depth recommendations can help your resume pass through an ATS.

Keep it relevant

Use your resume to show employers why you’re qualified for the job. Remember, not all experience has to come from formal employment. For example, include foundational skills—like communication, teamwork and leadership—you gained through class projects or volunteering when it’s relevant to the job description.

Start your resume bullets with what you accomplished and answer one or more of the following:

How did you do it?
Why did you do it?
For what purpose?
Quantify information whenever possible.

Whether you have no experience at all or you are wanting something else to round out your skills, Career Services offers a variety of opportunities that take from 20 minutes to multiple semesters to complete and will help you add professional experience to your resume.

Keep it active

Always start bulleted statements with past-tense, active verbs and delete words like “a,” “and” and “the.” You want to paint a vivid picture of your skills in action that is short and to the point. A few action verbs that stick out to employers include "developed,” “enhanced," "created," “analyzed,” "managed” and "mentored.” For more examples, review this list of action verbs to use on your resume.

Keep it going

Career Services offers several career fairs and industry events throughout the year. Here are a few of the upcoming events where you can improve and showcase your resume:

Use Handshake to register for these events and others as well as sign up for one-on-one sessions with employers during virtual career fairs. If there are specific employers that you are scheduled to chat with, make a variation of your resume that is tailored to each of them.

Career advisors are available to help you create and edit your resume. Check out this list of more resume tips and schedule an appointment to meet with Career Services so that you’re prepared to apply when opportunities arise.

Here are a few tips and best practices to help you create a strong, strategic resume.

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Optimize your career search with Handshake

Emily Sampl — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 17:43:58 +0000

Optimize your career search with Handshake Emily Sampl Wed, 01/22/2025 - 10:43

Career Services

Looking for an internship or job? Handshake is the best place for CU students to find on- and off-campus opportunities.

As CU’s primary online recruiting tool, Handshake connects students and recent graduates with internships, jobs, thousands of employers, information about career-related campus events and other valuable resources. Every undergraduate and graduate student automatically has a Handshake account, regardless of your major or year.

As your free one-stop shop for starting your career journey, here are some tips to help you make the most of Handshake.

Take advantage of the home page

A great place to start your search is the Handshake home page. It automatically displays jobs and internships that align with the information in your profile—such as your skills, interests and major. As you continue browsing, the platform’s algorithm will refine its recommendations to fit even more precisely with your preferences.

If a recruiter wants to find a CU student, the first place they will look is Handshake. Complete and public profiles not only enhance the personalization of your home page but are also much more likely to get attention from employers worldwide who are actively seeking CU talent.

Set up saved searches

Handshake has the same number of internships posted in Colorado as LinkedIn, with over 1,000 internship postings each month during the academic year. Set up saved searches to be the first to know about new postings and receive emails when positions post that meet your search criteria.

How to set up saved searches:

Select your desired industry filters on your search then look on the left side of the screen for a box titled “Don’t miss out!”
Click the “Save your search” link and then click to edit notifications to name your search and adjust how often you receive an email about incoming positions.
You can set up multiple searches if you have different interests or want to see different results for multiple regions in the country.

Use CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� Collections

CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� Collections are groupings of available opportunities built out by Career Services. Examples include “Local Retail & Restaurant,” “Colorado Startups” and “��Vlog�ƽ��/Denver Art & Creative” collections. Searching through collections is a great way to find specific and relevant opportunities.

How to use CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� Collections:

Start a job or internship search.
Using the filters to the right of the keyword search, select “CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� Selections.”
Select a collection from the drop-down menu. All positions will be those in the selected collection.
Search using keywords

Find opportunities that are most relevant to your skills, interests and career goals by using keywords like "marketing,” "music” or “sports.” By streamlining the search process, you can save yourself time and effort.

For example, if you were looking for remote jobs, here are the steps to follow:

Start a job or internship search.

Click the filter to the right of the keyword search box called, “Onsite/Remote”

select “Remote.”

The search will pull up all remote internships and jobs that match your specific criteria. Check out these recommended keywords based on your major.

Find career events and fairs

There are plenty of events and career fairs this semester to help you progress in your internship or job search. You can find all the details on Handshake in the events section.

Browse career fairs to see which employers are attending. For virtual career fairs, you can schedule time to chat with them. Keep in mind that students with completed and public profiles have a better chance of meeting one-on-one with employers during the fair.
Attend Career Services workshops and weekly programs to get resume help, interview tips and more.
Check out events posted by employers. These include workshops, information sessions and insights from past interns and employees.

Remember, Career Services is here to help. Visit Career Services during office hours or schedule an express appointment to get helpful information and ask career development advisors your specific questions.

Looking for an internship or job? Handshake is the best place for CU students to find on- and off-campus opportunities. Here are some tips to help you make the most of Handshake.

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5 ways to develop leadership skills this semester

Valerie Padilla — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

5 ways to develop leadership skills this semester Valerie Padilla Tue, 01/07/2025 - 00:00

There are many ways to be a leader in your community and plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills. Here are a few ways to gain leadership experience this semester.

Apply for a leadership role

Get hands-on experience while developing leadership skills with these opportunities.

CU in the Community project lead: Coordinate and direct volunteers while you spend a day making a positive impact while participating in meaningful service.
Journey leaders: Journey leaders are students within the New Student & Family Programs that welcome new Buffs to campus. You can gain valuable leadership experience while meeting new people and getting involved.
ASAP tutor mentor: ASAP tutor mentors work with students living in the residence halls and first-year students in paid tutoring positions.

Most student organizations, fraternities and sororities also have leadership roles for students to fill. These roles offer a chance to develop various skills and experiences you can use well after your time at CU ��Vlog�ƽ��. Browse BuffConnect to explore student organizations by topic or alphabetical list.

Join a leadership program

These programs allow you to gain leadership experience and meet fellow Buffs.

CU GOLD: Gaining Opportunities through Leadership Development (CU GOLD) offers students ways to develop leadership skills through several leadership program paths and opportunities.
Climate Justice Leadership Alliance: Work with other students, faculty and staff to develop and implement campus and community actions for climate justice.

Work on campus

On-campus jobs are a convenient way to gain experience, earn money and build leadership skills. There are many student job roles with some positions offering opportunities to take on more responsibility over time. Search for on-campus jobs on Handshake.

Participate on a student board or committee

Use your voice and help make decisions that affect our campus community. Here are some opportunities to consider.

Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Board: Develop programs and educational opportunities to enrich the campus experience for CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� students.
Cultural Events Board: Broaden cultural knowledge by supporting the voices of underrepresented and misrepresented groups on campus to promote student engagement with their platforms.
CU Student Government (CUSG): Serve your peers, make a difference and leave your mark at CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� by participating in student government.
CUSG Recreation Board: Promote the improvement of the Recreation Center and the university community through planning and positive action.
Distinguished Speakers Board: Bring well-known speakers to campus and develop your skills in planning and implementing large-scale events.
Environmental Center Board: Advocate for campus environmental policy, determine funding for innovative sustainability projects, get practical experience and more.
National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH): Provide recognition for students and staff in the residence halls who have demonstrated exemplary leadership and who have made outstanding service contributions to their communities, CU and beyond.
Residence Hall Association (RHA): Foster and facilitate community among on-campus residents and promote a safe and comfortable living environment.
Senior Class Council: Keep seniors informed and involved while building pride, tradition and community among the graduating class.
UMC Board: Create policy, develop creative solutions to challenging issues and grow your leadership skills.
Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) Board: Through policy making, leadership and outreach, being part of the VRC Board can help you advocate for and provide services to meet campus and community needs.

Look out for your fellow Buffs

Being a leader on campus can be more than joining a program or holding a position in your student organization. Our Colorado Creed reminds us that we build character based on our decisions and actions toward others. If you see something concerning, don’t hesitate to call for help. Know how to be an effective bystander and look out for other community members.

Gaining leadership skills and experience to add to your resume can help when looking for a job or internship. Learn more about how to build professional skills and experience with Career Services.

Learn more about getting involved this fall:

Download the CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Follow @CU��Vlog�ƽ��Life on Instagram, Facebook and X.
Check out upcoming student events.

There are many ways to be a leader in your community and plenty of opportunities on campus to build new skills. Here are a few ways to gain leadership experience this semester.

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3 reasons to work on campus

Emily Sampl — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:39:25 +0000

3 reasons to work on campus Emily Sampl Fri, 12/20/2024 - 10:39

Students who work on campus get to enjoy many benefits. Some jobs allow you to build technical skills and are a great way to explore potential careers. Others may offer some downtime and let you study around your job duties.

Whatever you’re looking for, here are a few reasons to consider applying for an on-campus job.

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

One of the best perks of an on-campus job is flexibility. Most student jobs offer flexible scheduling around your classes and other commitments. Many supervisors will also adjust schedules during busy times, like finals.

Many students work between 10 and 15 hours weekly, with 25 hours per week maximum. At your on-campus job, your academics stay the priority.

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

The other students you work with can quickly become your new friends. Departments like the Rec Center, Environmental Center, Residence Life and Campus Dining Services are some of the largest employers of students. These jobs allow you to spend time with fellow Buffs and get to know them.

Student employment also allows you to work more closely with faculty and staff. They can become mentors and potentially lead to future internships or research opportunities. Additionally, faculty or staff supervisors can provide letters of recommendation or serve as professional references later.

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Whatever department you work in, your student job can help you build your resume.

Many students develop foundational skills at on-campus jobs that they can use in professional positions after college. These skills include communication, problem-solving, time management and leadership.

There are also student jobs specific to different industries that can teach you technical skills. These roles include work in graphic design, event planning, social media, data analytics and research.

Find student jobs

Use Handshake to search for on-campus student employment, including hourly and work-study positions.
Stop by the On-Campus Student Job Fair on Thursday, Jan. 16, to meet with campus departments looking to hire students.
Connect with Career Services to find support with every aspect of your job search, including using Handshake, writing resumes, practicing for interviews and more.

Looking for a job? Here are a few reasons to consider student employment.

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Career Help

4 ways to stay motivated during your job search

Maintain perspective

Create balance

Prioritize well-being

Find support

Related Articles

7 steps to secure a job before graduation

Step 1: Set goals and deadlines

Step 2: List your key experiences and skills

Step 3: Optimize your online presence

Step 4: Craft effective job search documents

Step 5: Utilize your network

Step 6: Start your job search

Step 7: Improve your interview skills

Off

Upgrade your professional experience this semester

Find an internship

Earn a Google Career Certificate

Try a job simulation

Work on campus

Gain experience through volunteering

Set yourself up for success

Related Articles

Resume tips every college student needs

Keep it simple

Keep it relevant

Keep it active

Keep it going

Related Articles

Optimize your career search with Handshake

Take advantage of the home page

Set up saved searches

Use CU ����Vlog�ƽ�� Collections

Find career events and fairs

Related Articles

5 ways to develop leadership skills this semester

Apply for a leadership role

Join a leadership program

Work on campus

Participate on a student board or committee

Look out for your fellow Buffs

Related Articles

3 reasons to work on campus

1. Enjoy a flexible schedule

2. Get to know fellow Buffs

3. Gain professional experience and skills

Find student jobs

Related Articles

Use CU ��Vlog�ƽ�� Collections