Pushing through the end of the Semester: 5 Tips to Help Get that Offer

Why is it that when we are looking for a job or an internship, everyone else seems to be getting offers?

And then after receiving another rejection email, we lose hope and feel defeated. It’s frustrating and not fun.

It’s important to recognize these feelings and it’s necessary to work through them to move forward with our career goals. No one said it was easy, but you wouldn’t be here at Columbia University SPS without tremendous effort on your part.

Give yourself much credit, praise, and grace for all that YOU have done to get here.

Here are a few simple tips that can help you through these challenging moments. 

1) Ask around! You’ll find you are not alone amongst your peers.

Connecting with others in your cohort or other students at SPS can bring a sense of community which may be exactly what you need to propel forward.  Offer encouragement and support for each other. Have you found resources or leads that might be helpful to someone else? Share them, you might be surprised at what can come your way after these supportive conversations. 

2) Refine or create your job search plan.

Maybe it’s as simple as creating an organized tracking system for yourself so that you know what you’ve applied for, and with whom to follow up.  Tracking will also help in conversations with your career coach. Over time, when you look back at your work, you will be proud of all the efforts you put forth.

3) TAKE A BREAK!

Like a real one. One that lets your mind and body relax. It can be as little as 5 minutes. Or, maybe a stroll around the block to look at holiday lights. Get up and move around. Movement is proven to help you get out of the overwhelming stress cycle.

4) Reach out to people who support you.

Let them know about your job search plan and what companies you are targeting. Having these talks will allow them to remember and think of you when they see an opportunity that is aligned with what you discussed. 

5) Schedule an appointment with your CDL Career Coach.

Whether you need to revisit your resume because you’re not receiving any interviews or need guidance on networking, we are always here to help and support you through this process. Find your Coach here.

Remember, there is so much support out there. But, the first step is to seek it! 

By Amanda Chenkin
Amanda Chenkin