What Can You Do to Gain Work Experience as a Student?
To compete in the current job market, it’s often necessary to have work experience. The good news is there are plenty of opportunities open to you while you’re still a student that will help you develop relevant skills.
1. Visit the Campus Career Centre
If you’re looking for something specific, the career centre on campus could be the best place to go. The advisors there will be able to tell you more about possibilities for the field you’re interested in and may have a list of employers who have open positions for jobs or internships. The staff can also help prepare you for interviews and check your resume.
2. Take Advantage of the Opportunities That Come Your Way
You may have a specific idea of the kind of opportunity you want to pursue. However, you should bear in mind that the experience you need can come from multiple places. If your original idea turns out to be unfeasible, stay open minded. For instance, you may be unable to gain the skills and industry experience you need from part-time jobs in your area, but it could be possible through an internship or by volunteering.
3. Work on Campus
The easiest option for a job tends to be to work on campus, as this means no extra commute. Plus, your employer will be understanding about fitting your shifts around your classes.
4. Run for an Elected Position in a Club
The clubs and organizations on campus may have elected positions where students can demonstrate their leadership, organizational, and financial management skills. These positions are often competitive, meaning securing one will look especially impressive on your resume.
5. Ask Your Contacts About Opportunities
Talk to your contacts to find out if they’re aware of any positions that could be suitable for you. For instance, professors and faculty members may be able to offer you the chance to participate in a research project, whereas other students may know about jobs that have opened up recently.
6. Start Your Search for Internships Early
If you decide the best way to gain work experience is through an internship, make sure you start searching several months in advance. It could be worth creating a document where you keep a list of all the top possibilities. As you’ll be competing with other students for the best internships, it’s important to apply early and ensure you make a great impression on the employer.
It’s important to have a comfortable home to return to after a long day of classes and work. You can find rooms to rent near Carleton University at the Revalie. We have everything you need on site, including secure parking, electric vehicle charging stations, a social lounge, and a fitness center. Plus, with a bus stop at your doorstep and stations for both LRT and VIA Rail just a few minutes away, you’ll find it easy to reach your job, whether you’re working on campus or elsewhere in Ottawa. Apply now to secure the type of room you want.