Academics
Obtain information about declaring a major (if you haven't done so already).
Make a special effort to get to know your professors ~ they can't serve as a reference if they do not know you.
Work towards a good GPA. If you find you need help in a class, get help early. Seek assistance from the Advising and Learning Assistance Center, if needed.
Join a professional organization related to your academic and/or career interests.
Continue to meet with your academic advisor. Seek advice on your curriculum and obtain information on gaining experience including:
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Career
Continue to assess your interests, skills and values; read and research major fields and careers of interests.
Use experiential opportunities to learn more about careers.
Interview professionals in fields of interests or shadow professionals to learn more about potential careers fields.
Each August: Update your Profile on the CDC's online recruiting system, RedHawk JobLink.
On-Campus Interviews take place in both the Fall and Spring semesters. Many employers seeking summer interns begin to interview candidates in the Fall.
Schedule an Appointment to meet with a Career Counselor to evaluate your career goals & objectives.
Register for the Sophomore Career Experience (SCE) Program ~ Register early!
Update your Resume at the beginning of each semester and as needed during the year.
Attend CDC Workshops and Events (see our calendar on your RedHawk JobLink desktop) to learn about interviewing, writing cover letters and much more!
Apply to the Cooperative Education Program at least one semester before planning a Spring-Summer or Summer-Fall work assignment.
Develop your technical skills: explore career-related internships, URP's and NSF sponsored REU's.
Attend the Career Fairs held at Rensselaer each Fall (NSBE-SHPE) and Spring (CDC Spring Career Fair) to meet with employers and learn about potential openings for Summer, Co-op and Full-time jobs.
Begin to build employment skills through a wide variety of experiences on and off campus - get a part-time job!
Consider taking a skills and/or interest inventory. Ask about these tools in the CDC.
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Personal/Social
Join or start a new Club - get involved! Employers like to see evidence of extracurricular activities and leadership in action.
Gain leadership experience: Get involved with Student Government!
Work on a team project in your residence hall, sorority or fraternity or through the Independent Counsel.
Make new friends - join an Intramural Sports Team.
Consider Volunteering.
Make an effort to meet and get to know students from other countries. Check out the ISSS website.
Consider applying for the Professional Leadership Program through the Archer Center.
Begin to build your personal network ~ talk with friends, family, faculty, staff alumni and work colleagues.
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Year 1
