What Employers Look For
As you build on your classroom experience, consider what employers seek in candidates. Think about your involvement and skills. Do you demonstrate the qualities and skills below? How have you demonstrated these attributes?
-
Attribute % of Respondents Ability to work in a team 78.0% Problem-solving skills 77.3% Communication skills (written) 75.0% Strong work ethic 72.0% Communication skills (verbal) 70.5% Leadership 68.9% Initiative 65.9% Analytical/quantitative skills 64.4% Flexibility/adaptability 63.6% Detail-oriented 62.1% Interpersonal skills (relates well to others) 58.3% Data provided by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, Job Outlook 2017
-
Attribute Average Influence Rating Major 4.0 Has held leadership postition 3.9 Has been involved in extracurricular activities 3.6 High GPA (3.0 and above) 3.6 School candidate attended 2.9 Has done volunteer work 2.6 Is fluent in a foreign language 2.1 Has studied abroad 2.0 - 5 point scale where
5 = extreme influence and 1 = no influence at all
Data provided by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, Job Outlook 2017
- 5 point scale where
Ways to Gain Experience
Make the most of your years on campus and get involved in a variety of ways. Gaining different experiences helps you grow as a student, a professional, and a member of the Penn State community.
Creating a well-rounded experience helps you develop a better idea of what your career path will look like as well and give a potential employer a great sense of who you are.
-
Talk to your adviser and faculty in your department to see what type of research is being conducted. Focus on research that is related to your career interests.
-
Connect with the University Fellowships Office to find opportunities
-
Learn about Research Discovery Grants now
-
-
Seek opportunities to get involved on campus through events, your academic college, career interest, or personal interest. Look to take a leadership role.
- Get involved on campus with Involvement and Student Life
-
Search for jobs both on and off campus. Summer jobs are a great way to get dedicated experience. Do not shy away from including this experience on a resume or application.
- Find Work Study opportunities on campus
-
Use resources through Career Services and your academic college (link to college career office contacts) to find opportunities that align with your career goals.
- Search for opportunities using Nittany Lion Careers now
-
Visit the study abroad office to look for programs or opportunities to study in a new location.
- Work with Global Penn State to find resources and education oversees
-
Engage in campus and community opportunities to get involved and give back.
-
Find a service organization through Involvement and Student Life
-
Meet with Penn State's Peace Corps recruiter to learn get involved after graduation
-
