With fall semester quickly approaching, there is excitement surrounding campus to see old friends, begin classes, and return to jobs and internships. For some students, like me, this requires applying to many different companies and positions. Since this is the only topic I’ve been able to think about for the past few months, I figured I’d write an article about it if any of you are going through the same process.

1. Realizing it's finally time to apply for an "adult job."

The time of hosts at restaurants and cashiers at the local grocery store with your high school classmates is over. I have been regretting and putting off this part of my life for months - the time when it’s finally time to stop messing around and learn how to be an actual adult. “Adulting” is not just taking care of yourself, it’s learning how to network and make connections, getting experience in your desired position.

2. Trying to find time between your other responsibilities to apply.

Between two jobs, a current internship, and volunteering, it’s already difficult enough to find time for eating healthy, staying in shape, and hanging out with friends, but let’s just add trying to find an additional time to apply for 20+ jobs and internships.

3. Finally sitting down with a cup of coffee at your desk and getting down to business.

Sitting down at your desk at 6:30 a.m. with a cup of coffee next to your laptop is the best and most efficient way to start your day. Nothing else to worry about at that moment, just apply apply apply.

4. Finding a decent position.

Out of hundreds of different jobs, it’s so exciting to find a job that looks appealing to you.

5. And realizing it's unpaid.

“Volunteer position” is a death sentence to college students. Paying for tuition, groceries, and rent makes a paid position absolutely necessary. This makes things slightly frustrating when all of the positions you want are unpaid.

6. Volunteering anyway because at least it's something in your major.

Well I’d rather be doing something I love in my desired position without pay than being paid. Maybe??

7. Continuing with the job hunt.

You can never apply to too many positions. Revise your cover letter and resume. Repeat. Revise. Repeat. Revise. Repeat.

8. Finally finding your perfect job.

There’s nothing better than finding your perfect PAID job opportunity with a perfect location and idea responsibilities.

9. But also requires 2+ years of experience in the "entry-level" position.

I will never understand why somebody will label an “entry-level” position on a job posting website, but then also list in the qualifications that you need experience in the service of at least two years.

10. Applying for it anyway because what's the worst that could happen.

If I’m a horrible applicant, at least the human resources representative would get a good laugh reviewing my application (or lack thereof).

11. Repeat this process until you find a job that suits you.

This may take days, or weeks, or months, but it will be a significant payoff if you find your passion.