Hot Pink Coconut

To the Dean: I Need a Job. Yours Truly, Fresh Grad

Right now, I am still unemployed. It has been exactly a month now, but I am not bothered at all. Maybe the financial aspect is bothersome, but other than that, I am perfectly okay. I know I’ll be able to find a new job in time. Haha. I don’t want to rush, as I might end up in another job that I don’t really like.

However, I have to acknowledge the fact that nowadays, it is hard to find a job where you can really use your college- or university-learned skills. It is equally harder for those who weren’t able to finish their high school and college education.

For fresh college graduates, and not so fresh ones, it is often disheartening to find that the real world is very different from the four walls of the academe. Fresh graduates are mostly idealistic, but sad to say, idealism is rarely the norm in the real world. This post might be useful for new grads seeking to find their first job, all eager and ready to start a new chapter in their lives. This is also useful for bums like me who are ready to start a new job. Hehe.

Tip number 1: Know your strengths and interests. It is the most basic rule for anyone searching to find their niche in the real world to know what they are capable of doing and not doing. You have to have a clear idea of your skills and expertise. List these down and rank them based on how you perceive your adeptness in each qualification is. Also, you have to be aware of your interests, and as much as possible, factor them in choosing your job. Your extra-curricular activities in college should give you an idea of what your skills or interests are.

Tip number 2: Be open-minded yet focused. This is pretty self-explanatory. You have to be determined on your quest for the ultimate job you want to have, yet fittingly open-minded to accept employment opportunities close enough to your dream job. Remember, progressive thinking is the key. Who knows, that little starting job you accept might eventually lead to your career-defining moment. And frankly, that one is priceless.

Tip number 3: Be patient. Yes, this one is a classic. Remember that age-old quote by Cato the Elder, “Patience is the greatest of all virtues.” It won’t stand the test of time if it isn’t a fundamental truth accepted by all humankind. Learn a bit of philosophy and take it to heart: a little patience goes a looooong way. So if you are just about ready to give up your search for that dream job of yours, bear in mind that those who were patient enough to follow their dreams come what may had gone a long way (see, that rhymes ).

Just remember these tips and you wouldn’t need to write to the Dean anymore. Happy job hunting.