Early job hunt aids students

From the beginning of January through the end of February, most college seniors are faced with job applications, endless phone calls and desperate Internet searches, trying to land the perfect job.

But rather than waiting for January, students should be proactive about their job searches by starting early with internships before their senior year.

Many career advisers across the country suggest that the best way to increase your chances of finding a job is to start the job search early. Students will find success if they choose to get a jump on things.

The good news is that the U.S. job market is looking up in 2011. The economic tide is turning and highly sought after companies appear to be expanding their employment opportunities.

That’s great news for Trojans. After all, part of why we come to USC is because it attracts the nation’s top employers.

Students not only want to learn how to land a good job, but also how to stick their necks out in the field as early as possible.

The Career Planning & Placement Center plays a “helper” role by providing an array of programs associated with job searching and career strategies. This week, the Career Center is hosting a week-long series of events that focus on how to be successful in the job hunting process.

Students would be remiss not to take advantage of these events.

Bottom line: If you want your ideal job, you need to start early. That means getting help from experienced professionals.

But the programs will not be the only factor in determining whether or not you do, in fact, receive that job. Taking a hands-on approach in every aspect of your job search will be that deciding factor.

Emily Wang is a freshman majoring in business administration.