In October of 2013 I took to my Tumblr to vent a bit about life after college and just began to open up about myself, my thoughts/beliefs and life in general. Several months prior to this, I graduated with a BA degree, a minor and a certificate. I'd worked pretty consistently since I'd graduated high school and all throughout college. I'd held several internships and part-time work positions in my chosen field. About six months before graduating, I began applying to jobs as well as graduate programs. I thought I was set. I'd done everything right and even had several professors, previous supervisors and mentors who were willing to write letters of recommendation whenever I needed.
So why did I find myself beyond bored and jobless after graduating? According to job requirements and a department chair of a prospect grad program, lack of 2-3 solid years of experience in the field. Wait, what, really? I'd held one job 2 1/2 years throughout college and all others rotated around that. No longer a student, finding internships became damn near impossible. So how in the hell was I suppose to gain this experience to get into these programs and get the starter jobs in my career field?
It absolutely sucked. Heck, it still does.
Coming out of college I found I did not have enough experience. Now, two years late, I've been asked in interviews why am I applying for this job when I have a degree, as though working certain jobs are beneath me. I just couldn't understand. For the jobs I badly wanted I was under-qualified, and for the jobs that I assumed would be a breeze to get, I was over-qualified. Something has got to give!
It is tough out here. You go to school to further your education with thoughts of one-upping yourself, only to find that isn't how it really works. For experience I can truly say, don't give up. Apply to those jobs that you may feel you do not meet the requirements, but really can see yourself doing. Do not be afraid to contact those in charge and ask questions. And in the mean time, volunteer in your field, network and mingle and keep your skills current.
It would be pretty dope to end this by saying I've finally gotten my dream job, but I haven't. I'm okay with that. This time off and various interning, volunteering and the two jobs I've held since returning home have given me more knowledge about myself and ultimately what I'd like to do. I'm going to keep at it and if you are going through this, you should too!
So why did I find myself beyond bored and jobless after graduating? According to job requirements and a department chair of a prospect grad program, lack of 2-3 solid years of experience in the field. Wait, what, really? I'd held one job 2 1/2 years throughout college and all others rotated around that. No longer a student, finding internships became damn near impossible. So how in the hell was I suppose to gain this experience to get into these programs and get the starter jobs in my career field?
It absolutely sucked. Heck, it still does.
Coming out of college I found I did not have enough experience. Now, two years late, I've been asked in interviews why am I applying for this job when I have a degree, as though working certain jobs are beneath me. I just couldn't understand. For the jobs I badly wanted I was under-qualified, and for the jobs that I assumed would be a breeze to get, I was over-qualified. Something has got to give!
It is tough out here. You go to school to further your education with thoughts of one-upping yourself, only to find that isn't how it really works. For experience I can truly say, don't give up. Apply to those jobs that you may feel you do not meet the requirements, but really can see yourself doing. Do not be afraid to contact those in charge and ask questions. And in the mean time, volunteer in your field, network and mingle and keep your skills current.
It would be pretty dope to end this by saying I've finally gotten my dream job, but I haven't. I'm okay with that. This time off and various interning, volunteering and the two jobs I've held since returning home have given me more knowledge about myself and ultimately what I'd like to do. I'm going to keep at it and if you are going through this, you should too!
WRITTEN BY: VIOLA CONSTANCE | @Voila_its_Viola
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