Regardless of the industry or field you’ll be entering, there is a universal set of skills that every employer wants you to possess. Luckily, there are multiple ways to gain these skills and we’ve listed (just some!) of the ways you can do it.
Year One
Recommended to begin as a Freshman
- Join a student club or organization (could be academic, social, honors or athletic!)
- Seek a part-time job (on or off campus)
- Volunteer your time for a local or on campus organization
- Consider a minor in Leadership Studies to find out more about yourself and leadership skills
- Learn how to write Resumes and Cover Letters
- Find out more about yourself and your personality by completing the TypeFocus: Work module
Year Two
Recommended to begin as a Sophomore
- Attend Career Events to start having conversations with employers about opportunities including internships and part-time positions
- Consider Study Abroad opportunities to expand your global awareness
- Seek a part-time or full-time job (on or off campus)
- Create a LinkedIn profile and start connecting with classmates, Professors, Supervisors, and Advisors
- Use the Writing Center to enhance your written skills
- Write for the University’s newspaper The Good Five Cent Cigar
- Get active with campus recreation!
- Participate in multiple Student Activities on and off-campus
- Volunteer to broaden your horizons and experience other communitie
Year Three
Enroll in ITR 300 to learn more about career options and career readiness
- Consider positions as a peer-leader to share your expertise, experience and leadership to undergraduate students
- such as: URI Tour Guide, Orientation Leader, URI 101 Mentor, Teaching Assistant, Writing or Academic Enhancement Center Tutor, or Career Ambassador
- Complete an Internship to gain experience in your field (through your Degree Granting College or the CCEE)
- Conduct informational interviews with industry professionals to learn more about your desired career
- Use your Spring Break towards Alternative Spring Break
- Gain skills in Microsoft Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and/or Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) through classes and various online/free workshops
- Join professional organizations (visit What Can I Do With This Major for a list) in your desired career-field at the student level. Student memberships are much more affordable and allow you to access all of the same resources and networking opportunities!
- Enroll in ITR 300 to learn more about career options and career readiness
- Attend Career Events to start having conversations with employers about opportunities including internships and part-time position
Year Four
Recommended to begin as a Senior
- Complete an internship to gain experience in your field (through your Degree Granting College or the CCEE)
- Apply for job positions, especially employers coming to campus for On Campus Interviews in the Fall through Handshake
- Practice your interviewing skills through a mock interview with your Career Education Specialist
- Pursue leadership or board member roles in your student organization, club or activity
- Attend Career Events to start having conversations with employers about opportunities including internships and part-time positions