Graduation, Impostors, and Black Holes: My Job Search

This is Moriah, a Marketing Associate at Career Services. I'm an English major graduating in May 2007, so my job search is almost in full swing. Many people probably figure that since I've worked here at Career Services since I was a freshman that this whole 'finding a job' thing is no biggie; Totally not true!

I find myself at times emulating all those panicky, wide-eyed graduating seniors I've seen come into CS who are absolutely freaked out about graduating and moving on to the next stage in life: Being a Grown-Up. Where do I even begin?! Never mind getting a job, what about figuring out where to live, what positions to look for, salary, living on my own, bills... There are so many important things that I "knew" about before but didn't really think about until now.

As you look ahead, realize that there are a lot of things to think about, but most of them do not warrant freaking. Rather than viewing the entire future from graduation to retirement as one big black hole that somehow has to be filled in before May, step back, breathe in deep, exhale, and take one step at a time:

Step 1: Realize you're not locked in to anything.
A job is just a job. Sure, it can be a great, fulfilling step towards your dreams. Or it may not be the right fit for you. You have to start somewhere, and making the best of it will only sharpen your skills for the future and get you closer to finding the job that really IS your dream job. You won't know unless you try it out!

Step 2: Keep perspective.You have a good 40 years of work ahead of you (maybe you don't want to think about that ^_^). But imagine all the cool things you'll have time to try! If you're like me, you have a lot of interests, and that makes narrowing down an industry or profession difficult. Don't worry about finding the perfect job right off the bat (remember step 1, you're not locked in!). Try to enjoy where you are and take advantage of the unique opportunities of each position. When it's time to move on, go for it! And look for more unique opportunities that fit your skills and interests, not necessarily your degree.

Step 3: Ignore the "impostor syndrome"."So I've had a few classes on science and technical writing. Now I'm supposed to tell people that I'm a Science and Technical Communicator. It feels kind of like a lie. Dang, it IS a lie. Truth is, I just had a few classes!" If you ever have thoughts like this about your major or emphasis, IGNORE THEM.

It's normal for college grads to get to the end of the road and start to think, 'Wow, I am completely unprepared for life in this field.' Truth is, it's just not true. Everyone starts out this way; no one expects you to come out of 4-5 years of education and have the experience of a 20-year veteran. Be honest with yourself about your limits, but have confidence in what you can become. (Note: I didn't make the "impostor syndrome" up -- One of my advisers actually told me about it!)

Step 4: Be informedI think this is the point I get hung up on most often. While I personally can't know everything, my sci/tech writing background tells me that I don't have to. I just have to know where to find it. Luckily, here at UW-Eau Claire we have a fantastic Career Discovery Center that has information galore, in the form of print resources, internet sites, and actual people who know more than I do.

You ask the questions, they'll help you find the answers. The more you know and feel confident in your resume, interviewing skills, personal strengths and weaknesses, and direction in life, the better prepared you'll be for a proactive, productive, fulfilling life in the job world.

Right now, I'm thinking, "Okay, step one, step two... yeah. That all sounds good, think I got that straight. But what about... (freak-out ensues)." See, it's not a matter of knowing everything to do when you're looking for a job. (Don't worry, I can't even take my own advice sometimes!) It's about knowing and being sure of yourself through the stress of the unknown, and knowing how to address the issues giving you stress.

Put that nervous energy to use! That's what it's there for. Talk about your personal strengths with an adviser or friend. Put on your thinking cap about what you are really seeking in your life. Practice the skills you feel you need to improve. Speak with your past employers or teachers about their experiences. Most of all, get to know yourself. You won't ever really be fulfilled in life if you don't know what you really want out of it.