Career New Year's Resolutions

2017 is fast approaching and with it, the pressure to come up with New Year’s resolutions. Many people make them, but can seldom keep them. This year, make a list of resolutions related to starting down your career path and making the most of the opportunities you have. Here’s a few to get you started.

1. Apply for an internship

It’s best to put this one at the top of your list so you can get it done first. Most internships that take place during the summer or the spring have an early application date. Working at an internship gives you experience, varied skills and networking opportunities. Sometimes people even end up working for the company they interned for.

How to follow through: Look through the internships on Handshake or intern at a nonprofit through the Jaggar Community Fellows Program.

2. Gather references

References are an essential part of any professional resume. Your references add credibility to your resume and shows your employer that s/he doesn’t have to take your word that you’re fabulous - you have proof!

How to follow through: Evaluate the professional relationships you have. These can include professors, higher-ups and organization leaders. Find the people in your life that have a good understanding of how you work and like working with you. Always ask these people if you can use them as your references before you list them as such.

3. Attend a job fair

Job fairs are great for finding new opportunities within companies that you might never have looked into otherwise. It also puts you in direct contact with company representatives and even the opportunity to distribute your resume and get your name out there. Sometimes there are even job fairs that cater specifically to a certain field.

How to follow through: Find out how to prepare for a career fair through Adelphi University’s blog or Associate Director of Alumni and Graduate Student Career Services Maria Casey’s workshop.

4. Start networking

Business magazine Forbes says to start networking before you need it. Before you have any professional motivation that might make you nervous or overeager, network with people in your field. Instead of focusing on getting a particular job, you can concentrate on building relationships and your reputation.

How to follow through: Attend a networking event in your area.

5. Update your resume/CV

Reflect on all the experience and exposure you got in your field this year. Did you gain any new skills? Did you participate in any internships, volunteer events or fellowships? Make sure to include all of these in your resume/CV.

How to follow through: Throughout the year, add to your resume as you accomplish different things. This will keep you organized and constantly up-to-date.

Remember to space these tasks out accordingly. Some of these should take priority, but many resolutions can be part of a year-long process that contributes to your growing career path.