Gaining Experience while in college
Gaining experience during college is crucial for building skills, expanding your network, and enhancing your future career prospects. Here are several ways to gain valuable experience while in college:
- Internships: Seek out internships related to your field of study or career interests. Internships provide hands-on experience, exposure to industry professionals, and opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Visit ACES to meet with an advisors for assistance searching for internships, find opportunities on Handshake, or get involved in professional organizations.
- Part-Time Jobs: Take on part-time jobs or work-study positions that offer relevant experience or transferable skills. Even jobs in retail, customer service, or administrative roles can provide valuable experience in communication, time management, and teamwork.
- Volunteering: Volunteer for causes or organizations that align with your interests and values. Volunteering not only allows you to give back to the community but also provides opportunities to develop leadership skills, collaborate with others, and gain experience in areas outside of your academic focus.
- Student Organizations and Clubs: Join student organizations, clubs, or societies related to your academic major, career interests, or hobbies. These groups often offer leadership positions, project-based activities, and networking opportunities that can help you develop valuable skills and expand your network. Check out UMBeInvolved to find organizations that match your interests.
- Research Opportunities: If you’re interested in academic or scientific fields, seek out research opportunities with professors or research labs on campus. Participating in research projects can enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills while contributing to advancements in your field.
- Study Abroad Programs: Consider participating in study abroad programs or international exchange programs. Immersing yourself in a different culture, learning a new language, and gaining global perspectives can broaden your worldview, enhance your cultural competency, and make you more adaptable.
- Freelancing or Side Projects: Explore freelancing opportunities or start your own side projects in areas of interest. Whether it’s graphic design, writing, coding, or event planning, freelancing allows you to gain practical experience, build a portfolio, and develop entrepreneurial skills.
- Professional Development Workshops: Attend workshops, seminars, conferences, and networking events related to your field of study or career interests. These events provide opportunities to learn from industry experts, network with professionals, and stay updated on industry trends and developments.
- Mentorship Programs: Seek out mentors through BeaconCONNECT or other avenues such as your community and professional organizations. Having a mentor can provide valuable guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your academic and career journey.
- Informational Interviews: Conduct informational interviews with professionals in fields or industries you’re interested in. These conversations can provide insights into different career paths, help you expand your network, and potentially lead to internship or job opportunities in the future.
By actively seeking out these opportunities and making the most of your college experience, you can gain valuable skills, experiences, and connections that will benefit you in your future career endeavors.
Meet with an ACES team member to learn more or check out our career resources below and on Handshake!