Summer Jobs seem to be harder and harder to find. As I found out this past month and a half having an interview, two or three times does not guarantee a job. Even jobs on campus seem to be scarce. Employers who hire student workers somehow expects us to have three years of experience already. When I was interviewing for jobs I got frustrated at the question, "What kind of experience do you have to bring to this job?" Sometimes I wanted to say "I don't have any experience, but that's why I am here."
Although, that answer will not get you hired. Instead, you are trying to tell your future employer how your volunteer work has helped you gain knowledge on a Microsoft program. There are a lot of students who find themselves in these type of situations especially recent graduates. It used to be that employers will give starting jobs to potential graduates with the opportunities to grow in their company. Now employers want you to have at least three years of experience before you can enter a starting position. The market is not the best either right now. More employers are being very picky on who they pick to be employees because there are not many positions open in their company. I get that employers would rather hire an older candidate with five to 10 years of experience than having to train someone new. But this is very frustrating for recent grads.
As I was hunting for a summer job I was surprised that Employers could call you into an interview more than once and still decide not to hire you. Usually, if I get called to interview two, three, four times I expect a job offer. I also found it frustrating that there were many internships I applied for but couldn't get because the competition was too fierce. Even unpaid internships have desperate students lined up pressed against their doors. It seems that every college student needs to prove to their parents that they are doing something. For example, the call home may be "Hi Mom and Dad, I had to drop three classes but I have an unpaid internship so be proud of me. Goodbye!"
Seriously it is crazy how many hours students are investing in classes, internships, part-time jobs, and somehow a social life. No wonder many College students drop out because they feel the pressure is too high. I have fantasized about dropping out, but then I remember how hard it is to get a job and I decide to stay in school. Seriously, though, for those of you who need a summer job and can't find one I feel your pain! The advice I can give you is to be persistent. I literally applied to ten jobs in a month,and all the stores I applied for I have called and walked into so they would know my name. Eventually, someone took notice and I landed a part time job. To those who have graduated, I give the same advice and also to not set your hopes too high, But, always have the courage to pursue your dreams.
