The Reality of the Post-Graduation Job Search

When I first graduated from IUPUI, I thought finding a job would be a breeze. I graduated with high distinction, completed two internships and held a part-time customer service job through college. In class, I was told that the public relations industry was growing rapidly. I thought I would walk across the stage at commencement with a diploma in one hand and a new career on the horizon.

Well, life doesn’t always work out perfectly because the next thing I knew it was September, and I was still unemployed.

Just when I was feeling discouraged, my luck had turned around. First, Karissa Bash, Programs Assistant for Indiana INTERNnet, asked if I would write a guest blog post. I had multiple classes with Karissa at IUPUI, so I was happy to help her out.

After she heard I was still looking for a full-time position, she recommended that I apply to a newly created position with Indiana INTERNnet. I reviewed the job description and Indiana INTERNnet’s mission, I knew this was the career for me. Immediately after my interview, I called my mom and told her that out of all of the interviews I had been on, Indiana INTERNnet felt like the best fit for me. It wasn’t more than a week later that I found out I got the position! I guess when you know, you know!

However, I may not have landed this job if it weren’t for my internship experiences with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis. Those internships provided me with experiences for my resume and valuable soft skills to transfer to my career with Indiana INTERNnet. I am passionate about the importance of internships, and I can’t wait to use that passion in my work here!

While waiting four months to finally find a job was nerve-wracking, it definitely worked out for the best. I am working for an organization whose mission I feel passionate about alongside some amazing people.

The post-college job search can be frustrating, but always keep your optimism up and your options open. Sometimes things don’t work out as expected, and that’s OK. There may be a better option out there, and you just don’t know it. Also, stay in touch with the connections you make because you never know how they can help you out…thanks Karissa!