By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
Graduating this spring? It’s time to start concentrating on your career, even though you’re months away from turning your tassel.
“One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting until the spring of their senior year to think seriously about their careers,” said Gary Morris, director of Career Services at SUNY Oswego. “In Central New York, many employers hire months in advance and internships often serve as the primary pathway to full-time employment. The students who have the most options after graduation are usually the ones who started preparing long before they needed a job.”
He advises students to prepare well in advance by meeting with Career Services early. Even people still exploring majors and minors can benefit from such a meeting.
“We can help you identify career options, build a résumé, strengthen your LinkedIn profile, prepare for interviews and connect you with internships, alumni, employers and networking opportunities,” Morris said. “Those experiences not only help you build confidence, but they also make you much more competitive when it’s time to begin your job search.”
Dig in and get involved on campus with events such as career fairs, employer programs, workshops and networking events — even though graduation still seems far in the future. These are important because “every conversation you have and every connection you make expands your professional network and helps you better understand what employers are looking for,” Morris said.
Get involved with industry organizations that have local or statewide chapters so you can get a feel for what companies are looking for employees. Even if these connections don’t land you a job, you will learn a good deal from people experienced in the field. Follow them on social media and comment on posts.
Talk with your professors about the industry because at this point in your collegiate career, you’re likely taking only classes pertaining to your future employment. Many professors have worked in or are still working in the field you hope to enter. They can help you connect with future employers.
Develop strong skills that are ubiquitously helpful across any career path, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, professionalism and the ability to use emerging technologies like AI. Morris said that these skills will help graduates in nearly every industry.
“Students who combine those skills with internships, leadership experiences, research, campus involvement or part-time work consistently put themselves in the strongest position for success after graduation,” he added.
He also encourages all students to keep their eyes on their goals, regardless of what year they’re in currently.
“Career success doesn’t begin during your senior year — it begins the first time you intentionally invest in your future,” Morris said. “The earlier you start, the more opportunities you’ll have when graduation arrives.”
When the time comes to start applying — and this should be well in advance of May 2027 — turn to the New York State Department of Labor’s site, https://dol.ny.gov/find-job-0.
“The New York State Department of Labor also provides many resources and services to assist jobseekers with their job searches,” said Okoye Davis, public information specialist with the New York State Department of Labor in Albany.
These include job postings, career fairs and career workshops.
