Quick Takes, an ongoing series held by the Associated Students of CSUMB (AS), discussed how getting involved in campus translates to employment after college in their recent episode. Coordinators Dan Burfeind and Juan Guzman returned to engage in hearty dialogue to share integral leadership skills for students.
Community participation is highly suggested to students. Whether it is to help one explore their passions or to gain more experience in a particular field, being involved is highly beneficial.
“It’s an opportunity to test skills in the real world, in a real environment where there’s a lot less blowback and there’s more safety nets,” Burfiend said.
Being a part of college clubs and organizations allow a student to gain attributes and skills that are not explicitly instructed within classrooms.
“There’s so many elements that you’ll need that classes do not just offer to you because it is just not their responsibility” Guzman explained. “That’s why these clubs are able to provide this holistic experience.”
Clubs foster interpersonal skills that are highly valued in the workplace. These soft skills allow an individual to effectively communicate, connect and work with others.
“99 percent of the time, job requirements will list more than just a college degree,” Guzman said. “However, it’s gonna be a list of 10 to 15 items related to conflict resolution, critical thinking, leadership and team management.”
Another point that Burfeind and Guzman advised is to pay close attention to the contents that you place on your resume.
“Quality and depth is more important than quantity,” Burfeind said.
A common tendency that students gravitate toward is listing all the affiliations they have briefly been participating in. It is advised that when listing out organizations that one had been engaged in to only list out the ones where you have been an active and immersed member.
“Substance is essential in being able to learn and grow yourself,” Guzman said. “To learn something really in depth is vital for your showcased skills.”
It is also significant for students to get out of their comfort zones and to use the avenues open to them through being in college. A lot of companies target college students to recruit for their team.
“Don’t waste this opportunity,” Guzman said. “It’s difficult to get an internship or a scholarship when you’re no longer a college student.”
With COVID-19 placing a halt in plenty of industries and impacting the flow of employment, Guzman and Burfeind advise to just get all the tools, such as your resume and your cover letter, and to keep practicing your skills. There are plenty of resources available to utilize in order to stay engaged in a community, which are available on the AS students page.