Gonzaga University Career Center Blog

Your resume is perfect.  Your elevator pitch is polished.  You are ready to shine and today is the day to prove it.  The Career Center wants to invite you (yes…you!) to our Business & Liberal Arts Career Fair TODAY from 1-5 pm in Jepson.  34 companies have registered and are planning on attending to meet you! There are companies from all over the Pacific Northwest recruiting for both internships and full-time opportunities.  In this economy meeting HR recruiters is a valuable use of your time.

So put that Wii down, jump into the shower and pull out your iron.  (You want to look your best right?)   If you need some last minute coaching on your elevator pitch, networking or even another glance on your resume we have on hand “Resume Doctors” waiting for you at the fair!

No excuses.  Today is the day.

Tags: Event

I love fall.   It is by far my favorite season of all four.  The is something magical about way the world seems to transform  almost overnight.  I cannot think of better things in the world than awakening on a chilly October morning, before the light fog has risen.   With coffee in hand, the world seems to be full of sheer opportunity and possibilities.  The vivid colors of the changing leaves with crispness in the air is a pairing that cannot be matched any other time of the year.   Campus truly seems to come alive as the trees are reminiscent of a 3-year old’s coloring experiment.

Each tree seems to have a different story to tell or a different point of view towards this magical transformation.

Just like how each tree expresses fall differently, so should your approach be in regards to writing your resume. Throw out the idea of using a template and create a document that is a reflection of your personal story and point of view.

Answer the questions: Who are you?  How do you stand out from the crowd?  What is your point of view?

Although daunting, the process of self-discovery will allow for you to gain advantage in both the job and internship hunt on your horizon.

If your resume isn’t reflecting the story you’d like to tell as vividly as possible, come see us here in the Career Center.  Our staff can coach you to develop your resume to perfection.  No resume started?  No problem, we can coach you from start to finish.
To make an appointment, e-mail us at careercenter@gonzaga.edu  or swing by the 2nd Floor of Crosby.   Also, feel free to join us for drop in hours…every Tuesday from 12-1 pm where we have staff on hand to answer any and all career development questions!

Tags: Advice, Career Center Service, Career Development, Drop-In Hour, Resume, Stand out in the Crowd, Success in Economy

Does Your Resume Reflect your Personality & Accomplishments?

When a woman thinks about her most prize possessions, her mother’s gold locket maybe comes to mind, her new car with the zebra print seat covers, and of course, her shoe collection. Years of collecting these precious jewels to accent any outfit, a woman’s shoe collection is definitely something to showcase her personality. Like the beloved shoe assortment that sits at the bottom of every woman’s closet, the adoration they have for these should be echoed in their feelings towards their resume. Let’s take a small adventure into how our resume can take some tips from our shoe collection, from the flats to the stilettos.

Every lady has that pair of “steppin’ out” high heels that add a good four or five inches onto her height. They’re flashy to show off some of her greatest assets and get her noticed wherever she goes. A resume should show off your greatest assets just like a pair of five inch, silver, peep toe stilettos do.  Now is not the time to be humble– if you have great legs and the ability to lead a group effectively and creatively, then let it be known to the world.

A pair of beat up tennis shoes is an essential element in a complete shoe wardrobe. It shows that you’re not afraid to work hard, be persistent in the tasks you take on, and are always ready to get down and dirty with a volunteer job or leadership opportunity.  A resume should highlight the commitments or services that showcase a dedication and a time commitment to something. This is something that employers look for when selecting a candidate for a job or internship.

Not to go old school on anyone, but a classic pair of black pumps is a staple in a shoe collection just as pizza delivery is to a college student. Because they can be worn with almost any outfit, from your favorite pair of skinny jeans to that little black dress, the pumps show versatility and the ability to adapt to any situation. It shows how you can walk into a brand new company and find a place within the mission that every employee strives for.

Last essential element to every woman’s shoe collection is a pair of something that is uniquely you—whether that is a pair of Cookie Monster house slippers or your favorite pair of Nike Dunks. Corporations look for people based on their distinctive accomplishments and something unique that they can bring to the company atmosphere. A resume needs to illustrate what makes you who you are because if you eloquently and correctively present yourself and if that’s a right fit for the company, they will hire you.

So, just like your favorite pair of shoes, your resume should be something that you are proud to wear with your cover letter and references as matching accessories. Who doesn’t love a little professional bling bling?

Need help with your resume?  Are you feeling like it doesn’t reflect all of your personality? We are here to help! Here are upcoming resume “polishing” opportunities:

• Drop In Hours: Every Tuesday & Wednesday from 12-1 pm.
• Resume/Cover Letter Workshops: October 13^th (4:00pm Rd to Bali, Crosby); Oct. 21st (7:30pm Rd to Bali, Crosby); Oct. 28^th 93:30pm Road to Bali, Crosby); Nov. 4^th 97:30pm Rd to Bali, Crosby).
• Resumania: Oct. 15th 12-1.  (Free Pizza!)

Written by Courtney Jacobsen, Class of  2011.

Tags: Drop-In Hours, Resume Writing, Resumes, Workshop

I happen to have stumbled upon this highly informative video published by the Wall Street Journal giving tips for job hunters and activating that all important network.

There are some great tips in this short clip, the most important is to start networking before you start job hunting! By continually developing your professional network your knowledge of new opportunities will be much more accessible than if you wait.

Look forward to more video tips in the upcoming weeks!

Tags: Career Development, Networking, Success in Economy, Video Tips

We always tell job seekers what to do before, during and after an interview.  From researching companies to sending a well written thank-you note, there are some “basics” when it comes to interview etiquette.  Sometimes we forget however what job seekers shouldn’t do after an interview.  Yes, there are many no-no’s for post interview but in a Facebook and Twitter world some of the rules are being re-written.

For example: HR recruiters are in fact using social media websites like Twitter,  Facebook and MySpace to find out more on individual candidates.  (Ethical implications of this is still undefined and under debate.)

With that, consider that your Facebook Status as well as your Twitter updates up for grabs for recruiters, potential bosses and individuals to network with.  It’s recommended that job seekers to never update Facebook status or Twitter regarding the success (or failure) of an interview.

Saying, “That interviewer was such a jerk, and they would be lucky to have me on their staff.”  Probably wouldn’t read very well if someone from that company comes across it.

Or, “That interview was a snap and that job is in the bag and is mine.”   Being arrogant and ostentatious about the possibility of landing the job also will not make you appealing to employers.

My tip for you?   Follow the instructions of the Twitter Bird here on the blog and know what to Tweet/Facebook and what to leave alone.

Tags: Advice, Facebook, Interviewing, Job Search, Social Media, Social Media Etiquette, Twitter

Sticking to the theme of inspirational sports figures (fictional and real) I can’t help but pay homage to one of my personal favorites: Rudy.  If you have never seen the film, I order you to Netflix it right here…right now.  The movie will make you laugh and cry all while learning a great lesson.

The movie is the true story of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger who, ever since childhood, has dreamed of playing football for the fighting Irish.  Rudy is not the typical football player type. He is small (you could consider him the runt of the family) and with little athletic ability he hardly has a shot.  With friends  and family not believing in him (everyone except for his best friend Pete), it would be easy for Rudy to just give up.  But his heart and passion drives Rudy to fulfilling his dreams.

After years of struggle and failure, Rudy finally finds himself on the football team for the fighting Irish.  Never missing a practice, Rudy is committed to his next dream: playing just one game.  Each day he arrives giving all his heart and passion.  Both coaches and fellow teammates recognize Rudy’s heart. In fact one coach commented on his heart to a player by saying, “ If you had a tenth of the heart of Ruettiger, you’d have made All-American by now! As it is, you just went from third team to the prep team! Get out of here!”

Rudy followed his passion and heart which lead him to work at 110% each and every day.  He gained the respect of his teammates and coaches, who allowed him to dress for the final game of his senior year.  I am not going to spoil the ending for those who haven’t seen the film, but the last moments will bring tears to the eyes of any cynic.

What does this have to do with you, the job hunter?  Simply stated: Find your passion, then follow it.  Some people are fortunate like Rudy to have discovered personal passion since childhood, while others have to discover passion through trial and error.  Don’t be discourage if the first career path isn’t a perfect fit.  That’s okay.  You will find over time what inspires you and what drains your energy. Once you develop your passion, surround yourself by people who believe in both you and your dreams.  Everyone needs cheerleaders!

Tags: Coaching, Dedication, Heart, Life Development, Passion

For a feel good cinematic moment, sometimes I refer to my favorite genre: “guy” chick flicks.  (AKA: Those great inspirational sports movies.)

I know that I may be dating myself here slightly, but there is something magical about the movie Rocky.  You know the classic story: a guy down on his luck is presented with the challenge  of defending his honor and integrity by overcoming great obstacles.   Rocky is a normal guy who is faced with the challenge of fighting the best boxer in the world.

Rocky, with the help of his trainer Paulie, sets goals for himself which are no convenient for fun to fulfill but 100% necessary to order to achieve success.   Remember when Rocky wakes up way to early to drink raw eggs then run in the freezing Philadelphia winter?  Pretty unforgettable, right?

At the end of the film Rocky is achieving greatness, he overcame major obstacles all while maintaining his integrity and honesty.  (And he also wins the girl.)

For many of those job seekers, I have to encourage you to do the same:  Identify a challenge and work with pure diligence in accomplishing them.  Set goals and hold yourself accountable.  If you don’t trust yourself to stick to deadlines, do what Rocky did….find a trainer.  It can be a buddy, a fellow job hunter, a professor or a parent.  (Remember, they want you out of the basement eventually…)

For example, if networking makes you uncomfortable, keep practicing and eventually you will be a pro.  Rocky didn’t enjoy drinking raw eggs for breakfast on a daily basis but he knew it had to be done.    (Note: I also find the term “networking” intimidating.  Consider it meeting new people, and that next social will be much more approachable.)

Achieving greatness doesn’t happen overnight.  But through diligence and hard work you can reach the top of the famed steps.

Tags: Coaching, Job Search

Don’t look away from the screen like I’m not talking to you. Yes you, reader whose face is slightly blue from the screen reflecting from your radiant skin. It’s time to admit that you have a problem along with the rest of the Northwest.

Diagnosis: Caffeine Junkie.

Addiction: Mass amounts of No-Fat Caramel Lattes, and Extra Espresso Shots fed scolding hot directly into your buccal cavity.

I know this may seem like a way to wake yourself up, but a recent article in the Wall Street Journal (click here for the full article) has recently linked coffee, along with several others, as hindrances of your regular sleep patterns. Here are few questions for you.

Do you find yourself sleepy after a long nights rest? This is probably because even though you slept you did not receive adequate REM or deep sleep in the night because you were too busy thinking of that paper due tomorrow, or that assignment at work.

Or, can you find that you can sleep anywhere at anytime? No, you are not just a very talented individual, you are sleep deprived. This can not only make you yawn endlessly throughout the day, leaving your mouth open to catch flies and airborne pathogens along with other things, but sleep deprivation has been proven to decrease college student GPA, your level of work performance, and make you hungrier and feel less full.

So what can you do to help get a better deeper sleep?

1. Reduce noise, light, and disruptive behaviors before bed. That way there’s nothing disturbing you before bed.

2. Have a “power down” hour before bed, removing things like your cell phone, blackberry, e-mail and Internet before bed. This stops your brain and slows it down before bed.

3. Create a “worry Journal” and when you can’t get to sleep write everything that you are stressed about at the time. This way all of your problems are on that paper, and not in your head.

4. Read a book. If you are really trying to get to bed, read a non-exhilarating book, say Fluid Mechanics or Anna Karenina, and it’ll put you right to bed.

So before you pick up that next coffee, think about your sleep and maybe go for a decaf. You’ll think about the wonderful sleep you had, before you started balding or going through menopause because your deep sleep only goes downhill as you get older.

Written by Marvin Dumas, Class of 2011

Tags: Coaching, Helpful Links, News Articles

Every once in a while I find myself needing to shake things up: Approach life from a new perspective or commit to a new challenge. Typically when this happens to me, I find myself making drastic changes in my life. From the small: learning how to knit, living in a barn, how to start a fire,shovel snow or cook (I am still learning how to master a few of these!). Or to the Big: changing careers, moving to a new city, traveling and working abroad on a cruise ship for two years. (That last change was a pretty drastic change… to say the least.)

By accepting new challenges (both the big and the small) you are constantly pushing yourself to discover what you are really and truly made of.

I have decided that the time has come to create a standing list, made famous by the recent movie, my personal Bucket List. We all know what a Bucket List is; it is your ultimate “Things to Do List” that trumps e-mails or memos. This is list about defining and redefining your life with goals, challenges and obstacles.

I have given this quite a bit of thought but to get my creative juices flowing, I looked up “100 Things to Do” and a great list popped up that inspired me to commit to finally write down the beginning of my Bucket List.

Here is my first 30, on my Bucket List.

1. Learn to play the piano.

2. Visit all Seven New wonders of the World: Machu Picchu, Peru; Petra, Jordan; The Great Wall of China; The Taj Mahal, India and Chichen Itza, Mexico. (I have 2 of the 5 down.)

3. Drive a race car.

4. Learn how to cha-cha and then maybe salsa.

5. Go on a safari.

6. Learn how to speak Italian.

7. Swim with sharks, and then dolphins.

8. Attend a NCAA Championship Basketball game. (Ideally, the one Gonzaga is playing at.)

9. Go sky diving.

10. Visit all 7 continents. (I have 5 down!)

11. Drink vodka in Russia.

12. Become a collector of glass art.

13. Spend days(s) at: the Louvre, Uffizi Gallery, British Museum in London and Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

14. Travel to all 50 states in the U.S.

15. Attend the opening ceremonies for both summer and winter Olympics.

16. Finally read War & Peace.

17. Scuba at the Great Barrier reef.

18. Learn how to fly a plane.

19. Ride on a motorcycle.

20. Enjoy Mardi Gras.

21. Bungee jump.

22. Get a Masters Degree.

23. Find the love of my life and get married.

24. Go to Disney World.

25. Learn how to take care of my car, including changing a tire!

26. Write and publish a book.

27. Watch the 100 greatest movies of all time. (I only have 30 left, I just need to finish it!)

28. Visit the hometowns of my paternal and maternal ancestors. (In Italy & Germany!)

29. Create a home with an inviting, joyous, comfortable, loving atmosphere.

30. Listen and document the stories of my parents as children.

And I am just getting started…

Still stumped?  Here are questions ask yourself when creating your bucket list:

• If you had a year left to live, what would you do?
• If you won the lottery, where would you go?
• If you were lying on your deathbed, what would you most regret not having done?
• If you had an upcoming high school reunion, what would you like to be able to tell your former classmates that you’ve accomplished?
• What do you need to have more of in your life?
• Who do you admire? Why?
• You’re sitting with your grandchildren on your lap telling them about your exploits. What stories are you telling them?
• You’ve died and are listening to your eulogy. What are your friends and loved ones saying about you?
• If a genie granted you three wishes, what would you ask for?

Now here is the fun part. Start writing your bucket list, right now! Don’t wait or put it off. Creating new life challenges will inspire you to continually define who you are and what you want to achieve.

So I have to ask, what are you top 5 Things to Do? Post them here share them with the blogging world!!

Tags: Career Development, Coaching, Life Development