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We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of an interview, and the interviewer asks you something completely unexpected. You freeze for a second and think, “I have no idea!” Don’t worry—this isn’t a deal-breaker. In fact, how you handle the situation can show your honesty, problem-solving skills, and ability to stay calm under pressure.

Why Do They Even Ask Tricky Questions?

Employers aren’t trying to make you squirm (most of the time). They ask tough questions to:

1. See How You Handle Pressure: Will you panic or problem-solve?
2. Gauge Your Honesty: Faking an answer can be a red flag.
3. Check Your Adaptability: Can you pivot and think on your feet?

How to Handle the Moment Like a Pro

1. Take a Breath
   It’s okay to pause for a second. Composure shows confidence.
2. Be Honest
   Admitting you don’t know something is way better than making up an answer.
3. Redirect to Your Strengths
   Even if you don’t know the exact answer, you can highlight a related skill or past experience that’s relevant.

Best Ways to Phrase Your Answer

Here are some examples to keep in your back pocket for those unexpected moments:

• General Question
  “That’s a great question. I don’t have the answer off the top of my head, but I’d be excited to learn more about it. Here’s how I’d go about finding a solution.”
• Technical or Industry-Specific Question
  “While I haven’t faced this exact scenario, I’d use [specific resources/tools] to research the problem and consult with my team if needed.”
• Behavioral Question
  “I don’t have direct experience with that, but in a similar situation, I [specific example]. I’d apply those same principles here.”

Turn It Into a Positive

Not knowing something isn’t a failure—it’s a chance to show your curiosity and resourcefulness. For example:
“I see this as an opportunity to grow, and I’d love to gain insights from your team on how to approach challenges like this.”

FAQs About Tricky Interview Questions

1. What if I completely freeze?
Take a deep breath and say: “That’s a great question. Let me take a moment to think about it.”

2. Should I admit I don’t know?
Yes! Employers appreciate honesty and a willingness to learn over guessing.

It’s okay not to have all the answers. What really matters is showing that you’re open to learning and capable of tackling challenges. Stay calm, stay positive, and remember—you’re human!

The post Sample Responses for When You Don’t Know the Answer to an Interview Question appeared first on Career Advice & Interview Tips | WayUp Guide.

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Talking about money during an interview? Yeah, it can feel awkward. But here’s the thing—it’s one of the most important parts of landing a job. Employers aren’t trying to trap you with this question; they just want to know if your expectations align with theirs. The good news? With the right prep, you can answer this confidently and even use it to showcase your value.

Why Do They Ask About Salary?

If you’re wondering, “Why does this even matter?” here’s the scoop:

1. It’s About Budget: They need to make sure your salary range fits what they can offer.
2. It Shows You’ve Done Your Homework: Have you researched the industry? Do you know your worth?
3. They Want to See Your Confidence: How you talk about your salary says a lot about how you see yourself professionally.

How to Answer Without Stressing

You don’t have to pull a number out of thin air! Here’s how to get it right:

1. Do Your Homework
   Hop onto sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary Insights, or Payscale to find the average salary for this role in your location. Bonus points if you adjust for your experience and skills.
2. Know Your Value
   Think about what makes you stand out—maybe you’ve got certifications, extra skills, or achievements that justify aiming higher.
3. Keep It Flexible
   Instead of locking into one number, give a range. And don’t forget to show you’re open to negotiating.

Best Ways to Phrase Your Answer

Whether you’re starting out or have a few years of experience, these examples can help you craft the perfect response:

• For Entry-Level Roles
  “From my research, entry-level roles in this field typically pay $50,000–$60,000 annually. That feels like a good starting point for my skills and background, but I’m open to discussing this further.”
• For Mid-Level Positions
  “Considering my [X years of experience] and accomplishments like [specific achievements], I’m aiming for $50,000–$70,000. That said, I’m happy to chat more about what works for both of us.”
• For Leadership Positions
  “With my track record in [field] and the value I bring to the table, I’d expect a range between $80,000 and $90,000, depending on the full benefits package.”

What NOT to Do

1. Lowball Yourself
   It might feel safer to ask for less, but you could miss out on what you truly deserve.
2. Shoot Too High
   Dream big, but make sure your range is realistic for the role and industry.
3. Be Vague
   Saying “I’m not sure” can make it seem like you haven’t done your research.

FAQs About Salary Talks

1. What if I don’t know the market rate?
It’s okay to admit you’re flexible! Say something like: “I’m open to discussing a competitive salary based on the role and responsibilities.”

2. Should I share my current salary?
You don’t have to! You can politely say: “I’d prefer to focus on my expectations for this role instead of my previous salary.”

Talking about salary doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s all about preparation, knowing your worth, and showing confidence. Remember: the goal is to find a number that feels fair to both you and the employer. You’ve got this!

The post How to Nail the “What Are Your Salary Expectations?” Question appeared first on Career Advice & Interview Tips | WayUp Guide.

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Fresh out of college and ready to conquer the world? If you’re a new grad, landing a position with a government agency that prioritizes training and development could be the ultimate career move. At WayUp, we know that building a career isn’t just about getting a paycheck—it’s about finding a role where you can grow, learn, and make a real impact. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 10 government agencies with incredible training programs. These are places where you can level up your skills, gain hands-on experience, and set yourself up for long-term success.

Why Training Programs Are Key for New Grads

Picture this: You’ve got your degree, some great ideas, and a drive to make a difference, but you still need the tools to navigate the real world. That’s where training and development programs come in. They’re designed to help you bridge the gap between college life and professional life, teaching you practical skills, building your confidence, and setting you up for success.

Government agencies have some of the best programs out there, offering mentorship, growth opportunities, and even chances to work on meaningful projects that serve your community. Plus, let’s not forget the amazing perks of working in the public sector: job security, competitive pay, and benefits like student loan assistance.

U.S. Department of State

Ever dreamed of traveling the world while making an impact? The U.S. Department of State’s Pathways Internship Program and Foreign Service Officer Development Program are built for new grads like you. They offer hands-on training in diplomacy, international relations, and cultural exchange.

You’ll get mentorship from experienced diplomats, learn how to tackle global challenges, and have the opportunity to represent the U.S. on a global scale. For new grads who want to mix adventure with service, this is the agency to be with.

Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

Okay, we’re talking James Bond vibes here (minus the Aston Martin). The CIA has programs like the Leadership Analyst Program that prepare you to solve complex problems, analyze global trends, and provide critical intelligence to policymakers.

With training that includes everything from leadership to technical skills, you’ll be equipped to handle high-stakes situations. If you’ve got a knack for critical thinking and love the idea of protecting national security, the CIA might just be your dream workplace.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

If action, teamwork, and purpose are your thing, the FBI offers programs like the FBI Honors Internship Program and the Special Agent Trainee Program. These initiatives are perfect for grads looking to make a difference in law enforcement or cybercrime prevention.

You’ll learn investigative techniques, crisis management, and leadership skills while working alongside some of the best minds in the field. Whether it’s tackling cyber threats or cracking high-profile cases, the FBI is an ideal launchpad for your career.

U.S. Department of Education

Passionate about improving education? The Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program at the Department of Education offers an incredible way to dive into policymaking. You’ll work on projects that shape the future of learning in America.

Expect to gain leadership experience, exposure to diverse roles, and the chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of students. If you’re driven by a mission to ensure equal education opportunities, this is the place to start.

NASA

Cue the starry eyes! NASA’s Pathways Intern Employment Program is a must for STEM grads with a passion for space exploration, science, or engineering. You’ll work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with leading experts, and gain skills that are out of this world—literally.

Whether it’s building satellites or researching new tech, NASA’s emphasis on innovation and collaboration makes it one of the most exciting places for a new grad to start their career.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

If public health is your calling, the CDC’s Public Health Associate Program (PHAP) is where you want to be. This two-year program equips recent grads with the tools to combat health crises, prevent diseases, and improve community health outcomes.

You’ll tackle real-world problems, collaborate with experts, and gain the skills to make a meaningful impact on public health. It’s an excellent opportunity for grads ready to protect communities and save lives.

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)

Tech-savvy and ready to make a difference? The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program by the Department of Defense is tailored for STEM grads eager to innovate. You’ll work on high-tech projects that support national defense, from cutting-edge AI to cybersecurity.

The program’s focus on collaboration and innovation ensures you’ll leave with advanced technical skills and invaluable experience.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

For the environmentally conscious, the EPA’s Internship and Fellowship Programs are a perfect match. These programs focus on sustainability, environmental science, and policy, providing hands-on experience in tackling climate change and environmental challenges.

You’ll work with top environmental experts, learn about regulatory processes, and contribute to creating a sustainable future. If you’re passionate about saving the planet, this agency is your go-to.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

Think working for the IRS is boring? Think again. The IRS Pathways Program offers grads a chance to develop expertise in tax policy, financial analysis, and even law enforcement.

With comprehensive training and mentorship, this program prepares you for a rewarding career in finance, administration, or compliance. And hey, understanding taxes is a life skill we all need, right?

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Energy grads, this one’s for you. The Department of Energy’s Professional Development Programs focus on clean energy, sustainability, and cutting-edge research. Whether you’re into engineering, policy, or environmental science, you’ll find a niche here.

The DOE’s commitment to innovation makes it a standout choice for grads ready to tackle global energy challenges.

Why You Should Join a Government Training Program

Government training programs offer so much more than a paycheck. They’re an investment in your future. Here’s what you can expect:

Growth Opportunities: From leadership development to technical skills, you’ll gain tools to succeed.

Mentorship: Learn from seasoned professionals who are eager to share their knowledge.

Job Security: The public sector offers stability, competitive pay, and great benefits.

Social Impact: Every role contributes to the greater good—whether it’s public health, education, or the environment.

Networking: Build connections that will serve you throughout your career.

How to Get Started

Landing a spot in these programs might take some effort, but it’s totally worth it. Here’s how to begin:

Do Your Research: Each program has unique requirements, so read up on what fits your background and interests.

Polish Your Resume: Highlight relevant coursework, internships, and skills.

Write a Killer Cover Letter: Share your story, passion, and why you’re the perfect fit.

Apply Early: Deadlines can sneak up on you, so stay ahead of the game.

Use WayUp: We’re here to connect you with opportunities that match your goals.

FAQs

• What kind of roles do these programs prepare you for?

Anything from diplomats to scientists, investigators, and policymakers—it all depends on the agency!

• Are these programs only for U.S. citizens?

Most programs prioritize U.S. citizens, but check individual requirements for details.

• Can I apply if I don’t have a STEM degree?

Absolutely! While STEM fields are in high demand, there are plenty of opportunities in policy, law, education, and more.

• Are these programs competitive?

Yes, but with a strong application, you’ve got a great shot.

• How long do these programs last?

Most range from a few months to two years, depending on the agency and program.

At WayUp, we’re all about connecting new grads with opportunities that build careers and open doors. Government agencies offer some of the most structured, impactful, and rewarding training programs out there. Whether you’re passionate about protecting the environment, exploring space, or shaping public policy, there’s a place for you in the public sector. Take that first step today—your dream job is waiting!

The post 10 Government Agencies with Excellent Training and Development Programs Perfect for New Grads appeared first on Career Advice & Interview Tips | WayUp Guide.

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Embarking on the journey to find your first post-college job or internship is exciting but can sometimes feel overwhelming—especially if you’re targeting a government role. With their structured hiring processes, detailed application requirements, and highly competitive nature, government jobs may seem like a maze. However, they are also some of the most stable, rewarding, and impactful positions you can pursue straight out of college.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about applying for government jobs as a college student or recent graduate. From understanding where to search to crafting a standout application, we’ve got you covered so you can confidently take the next step in your career.

What Are Government Jobs?

Government jobs are positions in public service that allow individuals to work for federal, state, or local agencies. These roles span diverse fields such as public policy, healthcare, education, engineering, cybersecurity, and even arts and communication. Unlike private sector roles, government jobs focus on serving the public interest, ensuring community development, and upholding the values of democracy.

If you’re a recent graduate or still in college, you’ll likely find entry-level positions or internships tailored to young professionals. These programs are great for gaining hands-on experience and working toward long-term employment in the public sector.

Why Pursue a Government Job After College?

There are countless reasons why government jobs are a popular choice among new grads. Here are just a few:

• Stability: Government jobs are known for offering excellent job security, even during economic downturns.
• Benefits: Expect competitive benefits, including healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Growth Opportunities: Many government agencies provide structured career paths with room for advancement.
• Purpose-Driven Work: Serving your community or country is a rewarding experience that allows you to make a tangible impact.

Where to Find Government Jobs for College Students and Recent Grads

If you’re ready to dive in, knowing where to look is half the battle. The U.S. government and individual agencies have established platforms to help streamline the search process for students and new grads.
• USAJobs.gov: The official job board for federal government roles. You can filter by your eligibility, such as “recent graduates” or “internships.”
• WayUp: WayUp is the go-to platform for students and grads seeking a wide range of opportunities, including government roles. Whether you’re looking for internships or entry-level positions, WayUp provides user-friendly tools to simplify your search.
• State and Local Government Websites: Many states have their own career websites where you can explore openings in government agencies.
• University Career Centers: Your school’s career center likely partners with government recruiters, so don’t overlook their job boards and career fairs.

The Application Process for Government Jobs

The process of applying for a government job differs significantly from applying for private sector roles. Federal agencies, for example, follow strict guidelines when hiring to ensure fairness and transparency. Here’s how you can prepare:

Understand the Job Announcement
Every government job posting includes a detailed job announcement outlining the role’s responsibilities, required qualifications, and application steps. Pay close attention to the “who may apply” section, as some roles are restricted to current students, recent grads, or U.S. citizens.

Create a Federal Resume
A federal resume is not your typical one-page resume. It’s a more detailed document that includes information such as:
• Job titles and descriptions
• Salary history
• Work hours per week
• Supervisor contact information

Make sure your federal resume mirrors the job announcement by using similar keywords and phrases. This approach will help your application pass through the automated systems used to screen applicants.

Prepare a Standout Cover Letter
Government recruiters want to know why you’re passionate about public service. Use your cover letter to highlight how your skills, education, and experiences align with the agency’s mission. Don’t forget to personalize it for each application.

Submit Transcripts and Other Documents
Government job applications often require supporting documents, such as transcripts, writing samples, or certifications. Ensure these are ready to upload before you start your application.

What Are Student-Focused Government Programs?

One of the best ways to break into government work as a college student or recent graduate is through programs tailored to young professionals. Here are a few to explore:

Pathways Programs
Offered by the federal government, the Pathways Programs include internships and full-time jobs for current students and recent graduates. This initiative is designed to help young professionals transition into federal careers.

Fellowships
Programs like the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program are prestigious opportunities for graduate students. Fellows often get fast-tracked into leadership roles.

AmeriCorps and Other Service Programs
If you’re passionate about community service, programs like AmeriCorps offer the chance to work on impactful projects while gaining hands-on experience in a government-related field.

How to Stand Out During the Application Process

The competition for government jobs can be fierce, especially in entry-level roles. Here’s how you can set yourself apart:
• Focus on Soft Skills: Highlight transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Gain Relevant Experience: Volunteer with nonprofits or complete internships that align with government work.
• Use Metrics: Quantify your achievements in your resume and cover letter to show measurable impact.

Challenges and Tips for First-Time Applicants

Government applications are often lengthy and highly competitive, which can discourage some first-time applicants. Here’s how to tackle common challenges:

Challenge: Applications are too complex.
Tip: Break the process into smaller steps and tackle one section at a time. Use checklists to stay organized.

Challenge: Rejection after weeks of waiting.
Tip: Don’t give up. Many applicants apply multiple times before securing a role. Use feedback to improve.

Challenge: Lack of experience.
Tip: Use internships and volunteer work to gain experience. Highlight classroom projects or group work if you’re fresh out of school.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hear back after applying for a government job?
Timelines vary, but it can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months. Be patient and check your application status regularly.

Can I apply for multiple government jobs at once?
Yes, but tailor each application to the specific job description and agency to improve your chances.

Are government internships paid?
Most government internships, especially federal ones, are paid. However, some state and local programs may be unpaid.

What is the Pathways Program?
The Pathways Program is a federal initiative offering internships, recent graduate jobs, and fellowships to help students and new grads transition into government careers.

Do I need a security clearance for entry-level jobs?
Some positions may require a background check or security clearance, especially in sensitive areas like defense or intelligence.

What GPA do I need to qualify for government internships or entry-level jobs?

While there’s no universal GPA requirement, maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher can make you a more competitive applicant.

Applying for government jobs as a college student or recent graduate can open the door to a fulfilling career in public service. Whether you’re aiming for an internship, entry-level role, or a spot in a prestigious program like Pathways, preparation is key. Take the time to understand the application process, tailor your materials, and leverage every resource available to you, such as WayUp’s job board. With persistence and dedication, you’ll be on your way to making a real difference in your community—and your career.

The post How to Apply for Government Jobs as a College Student or Recent Grad appeared first on Career Advice & Interview Tips | WayUp Guide.

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the term “technical writer” may seem mysterious to many. What exactly do they do, and is it limited to the realm of Information technology?

We will help you understand the multifaceted role of a technical writer, break through common misconceptions, and explore the journey to becoming one.

Whether you’re a job seeker looking for a career path or simply curious about this profession, we’ll delve into the essence of technical writing, qualifications, skills, and real-world examples that illustrate its profound impact across industries.

What is Technical Writing?

Technical writing is the art of conveying complex information clearly and concisely.

It involves the creation of various types of documents, such as user manuals, product guides, reports, and documentation for software and hardware systems.

The core purpose is to make technical information understandable to non-technical readers, facilitating comprehension and problem-solving. Here are some examples of technical documents:

• User Manuals: These guides empower users to navigate and optimize the functionality of products, software, or equipment, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Assembly Instructions: Step-by-step instructions that simplify the process of assembling complex products, from furniture to electronics.
• Technical Reports: Comprehensive documents used to present research findings, project progress, or technical data analysis in a structured and accessible format.
• API Documentation: Vital for software developers, API documentation elucidates the functions, endpoints, and data formats needed to interact with a particular application or system.
• Scientific Research Papers: These papers communicate the methods, results, and significance of scientific experiments or studies, contributing to the knowledge base of various fields.

Is Technical Writing an IT Job?

Contrary to popular belief, technical writing is not exclusive to the IT sector.

While it is prevalent in the technology industry, technical writers find employment in diverse fields, including healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, and finance.

They play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between complex technical concepts and end-users, regardless of the industry. Following are the industries where technical writers are essential:

How to Become a Technical Writer?

Becoming a technical writer involves a structured path that combines education, practical experience, and the development of specific skills.

Here are the steps to embark on this fulfilling career journey:

• Educational Background: Many technical writers hold bachelor’s degrees in fields such as English, communication, journalism, or a technical discipline related to the industry they wish to work in.
• Gain Experience: Internships, freelance work, or volunteer opportunities can provide valuable hands-on experience. Building a portfolio of diverse projects is crucial to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
• Networking: Join professional organizations like the Society for Technical Communication (STC) to connect with industry experts and stay updated on trends.
• Learn Technical Tools: Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software tools like Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, or Microsoft Word to efficiently create and format technical documents.
• Continual Learning: Stay updated with evolving technologies and industry trends to remain relevant in your chosen field.
  
• How to Become a Technical Writer with No Experience
• Entering the field of technical writing without prior experience is not only possible, but also a viable option. Here’s a strategic roadmap to help you kickstart your career:
• Self-Study: Invest time in self-study to familiarize yourself with technical writing principles, style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style, Microsoft Manual of Style), and industry-specific terminology. Online resources, textbooks, and courses can be valuable allies.
• Build a Portfolio: Even without professional experience, create a portfolio of technical writing samples. Write user manuals for common devices, document software installation procedures, or craft how-to guides for everyday tasks. This showcases your skills and dedication.
• Volunteer and Freelance: Seek volunteer opportunities or freelance projects to gain practical experience. Non-profit organizations, open-source software projects, and local businesses often welcome help with documentation.
• Join Communities: Engage with the technical writing community through forums, social media, and industry-specific groups as it can lead to opportunities and valuable insights.
• Online Courses and Certifications: Consider enrolling in online courses or obtaining technical writing certifications to further boost your credentials and knowledge.
  

• HIRATION PRO TIP:
• Remember, becoming a technical writer is about your ability to convey complex information clearly and your dedication to learning and adapting to new challenges. With determination and perseverance, you can enter the field and build a successful career, even if you start with no prior experience.

Technical Writer Qualifications and Skills

To excel in the role of a technical writer, you must possess a combination of qualifications and skills that extend beyond the ability to write effectively. Here’s a breakdown of what’s required:

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field: While a bachelor’s degree in fields like English, communication, or journalism provides a strong foundation, technical writers often excel when they have degrees in relevant fields such as engineering, healthcare, or computer science. These degrees not only offer subject matter expertise but also make it easier to understand and communicate complex technical concepts.
• Industry-specific knowledge: Technical writers benefit greatly from industry-specific knowledge. For instance, a technical writer in the healthcare sector should understand medical terminology and regulations, while one in software development should be familiar with coding languages and software development methodologies. This knowledge ensures accuracy and relevance in their documentation.
• Project management skills: Beyond writing, technical writers often handle documentation projects. Project management skills, including task scheduling, resource allocation, and project tracking, are vital. They ensure that documentation projects are completed efficiently and meet deadlines.

Essential Skills

• Communication Skills: Technical writers must excel in conveying intricate information clearly and succinctly. They must bridge the gap between technical experts and non-technical users, making complex concepts accessible to a wider audience.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in writing and formatting is paramount. Errors or ambiguities in technical documents can lead to misunderstandings, product failures, or safety issues. Technical writers must meticulously proofread and edit their work.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with tools and software relevant to their industry is essential. For instance, a technical writer in the software industry should be proficient in documentation tools like MadCap Flare or Confluence. This proficiency streamlines the documentation process and ensures consistency.
• Research Skills: Technical writers often work with subject matter experts to gather information. Strong research skills enable them to extract valuable data from experts, reference materials, and documentation sources, ensuring the accuracy of their work.
• Collaboration: Collaboration is key, as technical writers frequently work alongside engineers, designers, and other experts. Effective collaboration ensures that the documentation aligns with the project’s goals and accurately represents the product or system being documented.

Conclusion

Technical writing is a multifaceted profession that transcends industry boundaries.

Aspiring technical writers can follow a structured path of education, experience, and skill development to thrive in this role.

With the ability to convey complex information clearly, technical writers are indispensable in making intricate concepts accessible to diverse audiences across various fields.

Embracing this career path offers both job seekers and industries the promise of enhanced communication and improved user experiences.

This content is proudly provided by our partners at Hiration.

The post What is a Technical Writer: Unveiling the Role and Beyond for 2024-25 appeared first on Career Advice & Interview Tips | WayUp Guide.

Are you aspiring to get into Google?

There are over 2 million people who apply at Google to become a Noogler every year. Yep! That’s the term Google uses warmly for its new employees.

The competition is fierce, and it has to be as Google has topped the Fortune 100’s ranking of the finest companies to work for in the technology field for four consecutive years.

To land a job at Google, you need more than just an Ivy League degree. Only a selected few make it through the screening process. Despite the high odds, you can make things happen in your favor.

Read on to learn how to get hired at Google and make your dream come true.

What Does Google Look for in an Employee?

If you want to work at Google, you have to remember that it does not just look for someone with certificates and degrees. To land a job at Google, you must be skilled and bring what Google mentions as “distinct experiences and perspectives.”

If you are a person who is driven by passion, has a fresh perspective, and can come up with innovative ideas, Google will adore you.

In its Nooglers, Google also looks for Googlyness, a set of qualities that will allow you to thrive in the company culture. The values of self-discipline, intellectual fortitude, and collaboration run the company. If you think you have these values and will enjoy the work at Google, stay assured as the interviewers would love to have you on the team.

But how hard is it to get a job at Google?

Getting into Google can be a little overwhelming due to its complicated recruitment process and tough competition. Out of 130 candidates, only 1 gets the job offer. This one can be you if you have the skillset and the charm to be a part of the most innovative team.

What Does It Take to Get a Job at Google?

Getting hired at Google requires more than just the skillset and presence of mind. The competition at Google is tough, and many people might be more skilled and experienced than you. In such a case, how would you stand out?

You can work on one thing many people who aspire to be a Noogler miss out on. It is your resume!

You heard it right. Many people forward a resume that they use for all the companies. However, you should make a Google-only resume if you want to differentiate yourself from the rest. Feel free to turn your resume into a sales pamphlet but draft it accordingly so it looks like it was made for Google only.

Once you are shortlisted, your performance in the Google interview will largely determine your selection fate. Through your responses, you should convey that you think out of the box and brim with creativity to find a solution to the problem.

How to Get a Job With Google Recruiter?

You can increase your chances of shortlisting by connecting with Google recruiters. What does it mean to connect with Google recruiters?

There are employment websites like LinkedIn where you can create a profile that showcases your professional experience. Once you make an engaging LinkedIn profile, reach out to recruiters working at Google to get your foot in the door.

It will serve two purposes. Firstly, you will build your LinkedIn network, and secondly, you might schedule an interview if lady luck is by your side.

You can search “Google recruiter” in the LinkedIn search bar and draft a polite message suggesting you are looking for a job in their company.

What are Google Careers Available for You in 2024?

Google offers jobs for both advanced professionals and beginners. Gone are the days when Google would just shortlist candidates based on qualifications. Now they look beyond the GPAs. If you do not have prior professional experience, you can still become a Noogler by opting for an entry-level job.

The company offers both onsite and offsite job roles. Whether you want to apply for a technical position or a non-technical one, you can choose from a wide range of job options that Google provides.

Given below is a list of popular jobs at Google that you can consider in 2024:

How to Get Hired at Google in 5 Easy Steps

This leads to the critical question of how to get hired at Google ‌when over 2 million applications are already lying at the desk of Google.

You should understand that data might intimidate you, but in the end, Google is also a company that is looking for the most talented and competent workforce. Some universal truths still apply to Google, and having an insight into Google’s work culture can make you stand out from the crowd.

Given below are five easy steps that you can follow to get hired at Google without losing sleep over it:

How to Get Hired at Google: Building the Resume

The resume is the most critical aspect of applying for any job. It helps in the preliminary assessment of your conformity with the open position. It is a tool in your hand that can either get you shortlisted for the initial screening or get you rejected.

So what can you do to make your resume represent the real you and get shortlisted?

• Keep your resume length limited to a single page.
• Use a readable font like Calibri, Arial, and Times New Roman, and keep the size 10-12 points.
• Mention your contact details, email, and tailor-made resume objective at the top.
• If you do not have any experience, put your education first. If you have experience, you can keep the education section after work experience.
• List your experience in reverse chronological order and mention your duties and accomplishments.
• Include keywords in your resume from the job description to show relevant skills for the job.

How to Get Hired at Google: A Refreshing Cover Letter

Cover letters are an essential component of the job application. Even though many applicants neglect it, you should always view it as an opportunity to tell your story.

Keep in mind that Googlers are looking for unique individuals rather than those who can just fit in. Use the cover letter to convey your uniqueness and passion for the job.

Diversity of experience, abilities, backgrounds, and viewpoints is desired in the IT industry more than ever. You can talk about your experience, special interests, and skills through your cover letter.

Keep your cover letter to 3-4 paragraphs, highlighting your motivation, relevant job experience, the talents and qualities you possess for the role, and other areas where you excel as a candidate.

How to Get Hired at Google: Tips for Interview

The interview is the most interesting step in getting a job at Google. You would receive a notification for the interview stage if your resume and cover letter effectively swayed the recruiters.

The first round of interviews will comprise a phone interview where interviewers will assess your communication skills and knowledge. They may ask you behavioral questions to check how you learned from your experiences.

If you have cleared the telephonic interview, the next call will be for an on-site interview. In this stage, interviewers will assess your cognitive abilities and skills like leadership, creativity, problem-solving ability, etc.

Given below are some tips that will help you in clearing the interview rounds at Google:

• Search for the most common interview questions that are asked at Google. Prepare an answer and rehearse it in front of a mirror, friends, and family to boost confidence.
• While framing answers, try to add relevant experience from a previous job. It will allow the interviewers to understand your skills in much more detail.
• Read the job description carefully and incorporate the skills required in your responses.
• Be thorough with your resume. At any point during the interview, you might be cross-questioned based on the information you have put on your resume.
• To prepare for the interview, you can enrich your knowledge of the selected domain by enrolling in courses offered by Udemy and Coursera.
• Contact your recruiter to get information about meeting details. It will help you decide what to wear on the interview day, even though Google does not have a dress code.

How to Get Hired at Google: Hone the Skills

There are specific skill sets that Googlers would look for if they are interviewing you. It would help if you convey that you have those within you. Ensure to enhance and widen your skillset by opting for courses offered online so that you become the one who bags the job offer.

Before applying for a job at Google, be ready with technical and non-technical abilities relevant to your industry.

Given below are some skills that you must hone which will keep you ahead of the crowd if you want to work at Google:

How to Get Hired at Google: Earn the Experience

Google values the experiences of its employees. Therefore, you must gain some experience through an internship or a previous job.

If you wish to join Google’s marketing team, you may volunteer or take a part-time job with a marketing company. If you do not have previous work experience, consider any academic projects you may have done that are pertinent to the position you are looking for.

You should hone your coding abilities as much as you can if you’re seeking an engineering position. Googlers value your track record of finishing open-source projects and any other relevant work experience.

How Do I Get a Job at Google Without a Degree?

If you are wondering how to get hired at Google without a degree, you should know that Google doesn’t heavily rely upon degrees. It is no wonder why it is so. Google wants smart, creative, and enthusiastic people on its team.

Many people have graduated from the Ivy League, but not all of them are working at Google. If due any reason, you have not completed your degree, you still stand a chance of getting shortlisted.

It is your skill set that will help you land your dream job. You can always pursue some certifications that can enhance the skills Google values the most.

You will have to show Google that you are better than thousands of people who have applied for the same position. You can do this by showcasing your experience or accomplishments that make you a unique candidate.

Additionally, you can start working in a company, and with years of experience, your skills will be honed, putting you ahead in the race to be a Noogler. Remember, Google puts experience before any degree, and the more experience you have, the higher your chances of selection at Google.

What Should I Do if I Don’t Get a Job at Google?

Due to the cut-throat competition, they might not select you for the job. In such a scenario, you can still politely thank the hiring manager you have been coordinating with and seek feedback.

Take the feedback seriously and work on the areas that hold you back. Improve your interview skills, gain experience, and enhance your hard and soft skills required for the job.

You can also review your application process from start to finish to understand if you made any mistakes. Always try to double-check everything before the final submission.

Stay positive and apply for the next best opportunity you have. Rather than brooding over why you were rejected, you can flourish in the next by working on yourself. You can constantly reapply at Google after a few months once you have gained the required credentials.

Should I Apply for Other Jobs at Google Before Interviews?

Records have suggested that most Google aspirants have applied for other roles before appearing for the interviews. Most often, it might happen that things didn’t work out due to reasons that do not concern you. It could be just a matter of timing than your skills.

In such cases, you can always apply to other job roles that interest you. You can opt for similar job roles as well. However, keep in mind that quality matters over quantity. Hence, do not go on applying for every job that Google has advertised.

Make a wise decision to shortlist the ones where you could perform well. Getting the offer letter is just beginning, you have to excel in Google’s work culture through your extraordinary skills.

FAQs for ‘How to Get a Job in Google?’

Getting hired at Google requires more than just degrees and certifications. You need to stand out to the interviewers through your charismatic personality.

Q. How to get a job in Google?

A. To boost your chances, focus on developing relevant skills, gaining industry experience, networking, and showcasing your achievements through a well-crafted resume and cover letter.

Q. What qualifications does Google look for in job applicants?

A. Google seeks candidates with strong academic backgrounds, technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for innovation. Additionally, relevant work experience and demonstrated leadership skills are valued.

Q. Are there any specific interview tips for getting hired at Google?

A. Prepare thoroughly by researching Google’s products, culture, and interview process. Be ready to showcase your problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and ability to work well in a team during the interview.

Q. Do I need a computer science degree to get hired at Google?

A. While a computer science degree is valued, Google also considers candidates from diverse educational backgrounds who possess the required skills and experience for specific roles.

Q. Are there any alternative paths to getting a job at Google?

A. Yes, apart from traditional application processes, Google offers internships, apprenticeships, and programs like the Google Associate Product Manager (APM) to provide alternative routes to getting hired.

Learn How to Build a Job-Winning Resume

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With its deep insights into human behavior, psychology is a fascinating major that helps to develop students’ understanding of mental health. If you’re considering becoming a psychology major, you might be wondering about the types of skills you’ll need in order to be successful.

Here are some of the most common skills for psychology majors.

Open-mindedness

Human behavior is a complex subject and learning about it in detail requires an open mind. In your classes, you’ll be learning about various types of behaviors and mental health disorders, as well as about the different ways that people interact with one another. In order to get the most out of these classes, and to ensure that you’re developing an in-depth understanding of the field, it’s important to be objective and flexible in your thinking and to be willing to change your mind when presented with new information.

Critical thinking skills

Another important skill for psychology majors is the ability to think critically. Since you’ll be learning about various psychological theories and analyzing an array of case studies in your classes, the ability to form connections between different areas of psychology (and to determine which theories resonate most closely with your own ideas) is an extremely important part of succeeding in this major.

Research skills

Psychology majors also need to have well-developed research skills including the ability to conduct experiments and to quantify and interpret data. As a psychology major, you’ll be putting these skills to use by carrying out different experiments and presenting your research to your professors and your peers. You’ll also spend a lot of time reading about various behavioral theories and therapeutic modalities so being able to find relevant texts and pull information from them is extremely important.

Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving skills are important for almost every major and psychology is no exception. In fact, being able to solve problems in an effective and creative way is a necessary part of studying psychology since so much of the subject is focused on assessing and treating mental and behavioral problems. If you’re more interested in research than on the clinical aspects of psychology, having great problem-solving skills will help you design and implement experiments to further your research.

Communication skills

Since psychology trains you to work closely with others, being able to communicate effectively is key. Strong communication skills are also important when it comes to presenting research papers at conferences, so ensuring that your style of communication is clear and effective is a great way to set yourself up for success.

Although psychology majors come from a variety of interest areas and backgrounds, those who really succeed in this major are able to develop these skills and to put them to good use.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Is a Psychology Major and Is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 3 Ways to Be More Productive at Work.

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Are you fascinated by human behavior and interested in figuring out what makes people tick? Are you passionate about helping others and helping them work through difficult situations? If you answered yes to these questions, a psychology major might just be for you.

What is a psychology major?

Psychology is the study of human behavior at both the individual and group level. As a psychology major, you’ll learn about the various factors that affect mental health (such as cultural and environmental factors), and about the different dynamics that can impact the psychology of a particular group. You’ll also dive deep into the world of psychological disorders and learn about common mental health issues including anxiety and depression.

In psychology classes, you’ll learn the basics of cognitive function and then go on to study advanced theories about what drives particular types of behaviors. Covering physiology, statistics and experimental psychology, this major will give some solid insights into the inner workings of the human brain.

Is it right for me?

Psychology is an exciting field with plenty of career opportunities for those interested in helping people and learning more about the nuances of human interaction.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding whether a psychology major is right for you:

• Am I excited to do in-depth research on mental health and human relationships?
• Am I open-minded? Am I able to be objective about the things I’m learning and able to adjust my views accordingly?
• Do I handle feedback well? Will I be able to deal with constructive feedback from my professors and classmates?
• Am I willing to devote a lot of time to reading and understanding clinical research in the field?

What can I do with a psychology degree?

A psychology major can be applied to a broad range of fields including social work and teaching. Popular career paths for psychology majors include:

• Psychologist
• Social worker
• Professor
• Career counselor
• Non-profit aid worker
• Guidance counselor
• Teacher

What do people who major in psychology earn?

The earning potential for psychology majors depends a lot on the types of career paths they choose. For example, entry-level social workers earn approximately $40,000 per year while clinical psychologists with advanced degrees can earn as much as $110,000. No matter what career path you choose, a psychology major will help you develop a broad range of skills that can help you be successful in any role.

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Have you always been a natural writer? Do you love being persistent when talking to people? If you enjoy getting to the truth of a matter as well as putting in the work to research, write and edit stories about issues around the globe, the world of journalism may be for you.

What is a journalism major?

Majoring in journalism is a fast-paced endeavor, where you’ll be quickly learning the ins and outs of how to write a variety of different types of stories on many different topics. You’ll often be sent out into the field to work on your own, and you’ll have to come back with polished articles on quick, hard deadlines.

Is it right for me?

If the idea of getting to research, write and edit stories sounds great to you, here are several key questions to consider before you commit to majoring in journalism.

• Do I feel confident in my basic writing, research and editing skills?
• Am I someone who likes to spend lots of time fact-checking my work and making sure every detail is correct?
• Do I like reaching out to people (often through cold calls or emails) to interview them for a story? Am I persistent in following up with people to get what I want?
• Am I okay with not everyone liking a story I publish? How do I react to backlash?
• Am I able to handle and incorporate criticism and feedback from my professors and peers? Do I have a thick skin when it comes to my writing?
• Am I okay doing lots of my research, writing and editing by myself?
• Am I good at multitasking and working on multiple stories on a variety of topics at once?
• Will I dedicate myself to getting internships and jobs through college that will further my level of experience?

What can I do with a journalism degree?

Often people say that journalism is a dying field, but that can’t be further from the truth. While traditional print journalism might not be in the same place it was several decades ago, it is still relevant. Additionally, digital journalism has become more and more prevalent, and there are many different jobs out there for people with a journalism degree.

There are also many people with journalism degrees who work on the opposite side of the industry in public relations roles, pitching ideas and stories to journalists on behalf of clients.

Some potential career options include becoming a journalist, blogger, social media manager, broadcast journalist, communications manager, publicist, marketing manager, advertising copywriter, multimedia reporter, photographer and editor.

What do journalists earn?

Journalism is a field where salaries vary greatly based on where you’re located, what your official title is and the type of company you work for (for instance, a bootstrapped media startup versus and established magazine brand). Starting salaries typically run between $25,000 to $40,000 depending on those factors.

Many journalists also choose to go the freelance route, which affects your income from month to month. This doesn’t mean you can’t make a comfortable living; it just means that your salary won’t be consistent every single month, and some months may be tighter financially than others.

If you do choose to pursue a career in journalism rather than something like public relations or marketing, you’ll most likely be on the lower end of the salary spectrum, around $35,000 to $40,000 per year.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Accounting and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 10 Tips for the Perfect Cover Letter.

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For those majoring in journalism, there is no better way to explore potential career options than by taking on an internship. Internships for journalism majors are wide-ranging, giving you the hands-on experience you need and an in-depth look at the industry of your choice. Best of all, internships are a great way of getting one step closer to your dream job.

Here are some of the most common internships for journalism majors:

Journalism intern

As a journalism intern for a newspaper, magazine or a digital media property, you’ll learn how to produce engaging content that fits the style and tone of your publication. During your internship, you’ll take on projects such as conducting interviews, uploading website content and managing the company’s social media accounts. You may also be offered the opportunity to write articles which you can add to your portfolio. If you’re considering a career in journalism, this is the internship for you.

Editorial intern

An editorial internship is similar to a journalistic one except that it’s not always affiliated with a traditional publication. As an editorial intern, you might be hired by a PR company, a startup or a nonprofit to develop content for their website. During your internship, you’ll be responsible for writing content, sourcing photos and crafting posts that can be used across the company’s social channels. You’ll contribute to strategy designed to increase the organization’s internet presence. In addition to researching, writing, editing and creating outlines for new articles, you’ll also monitor feedback and statistics for blog posts and assist with SEO strategy. This is a great internship for anyone who wants to learn as much as possible about digital media and to develop solid editorial skills along the way.

Content marketing intern

A content marketing internship is perfect for journalism majors who are looking to work closely with marketing, advertising and PR teams. From writing content for the company’s website to organizing and researching information for the organization’s newsletter, you’ll be participating in most aspects of content marketing and sharpening your copywriting skills along the way. During your internship, you’ll also get a chance to research, outline and write blog posts relevant to your company’s target audience as well as writing press releases for new campaigns. This is a wonderful internship for anyone interesting in going into marketing after graduation.

Social media intern

As a social media intern, you’ll assist in crafting social media posts and monitor the impact of those posts across different social channels. You’ll also get hands-on experience with social media tools like Google Analytics and HootSuite, as well as learning how to use metrics to optimize campaigns. This is a great internship for journalism majors interested in developing creative social campaigns and engaging users in the process.

Copywriting intern

A copywriting internship is all about writing engaging material and maintaining good communication with your team. As a copywriting intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience writing brochures, reports and marketing materials. You’ll also assist with drafting and editing blog posts, news articles and website content. Last but not least, you’ll learn how to monitor marketing and media trends and modify your writing style to suit your audience. This a wonderful internship for anyone interested in advertising or marketing.

Broadcast intern

As a broadcast intern for a TV or radio station, you’ll get to observe the planning, operation and execution of a TV show, radio program or podcast. Your responsibilities could range from administrative duties like researching and fact-checking news stories to more advanced tasks like booking guests, developing scripts and putting together press releases. If you’re interested in learning about broadcasting, this could be the right internship for you.

Whether you’re interning at a famous digital media company or writing copy for a small tech startup, a journalism internship will give you the skills you need to succeed in your first job after graduation.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Journalism Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as What is an Entry-Level Job?

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Do you enjoy talking to people and figuring out what makes them tick? Are you an outgoing person who is comfortable connecting with diverse groups of people and getting your message across effectively? If you answered yes to these questions, then being a communications major might just be for you.

What is a communications major?

A communications major is a major designed to teach you about effective communication and how to apply it to fields like media, law and business. Coursework for this major is very similar to coursework for related majors such as public relations, advertising and journalism. As a communications major, you’ll be taking a broad range of classes including marketing, sociology and business as well as more traditional communications classes like media studies and journalism.

Is it right for me?

Majoring in communications means having a broad understanding of how this field impacts others such as business and media. Here are some key questions to ask yourself before embarking on this major:

Do I feel confident in my writing and communication skills?
Do I like studying a broad range of subjects including sociology, psychology and media studies?
Am I able to handle and incorporate criticism and feedback from my professors and peers?
Am I good at multitasking and working on multiple projects and subjects at once?
Will I dedicate myself to getting internships and jobs through college that will further my level of experience?

What can I do with a communications major?

Since communications is a broad major with significant overlap to other majors, there are plenty of available career options. Some of the most common ones include:

• public relations
• journalism
• law
• marketing
• copywriting
• … and more

What do communications majors earn?

Salaries for communications majors are as varied as the career paths they take after graduation. While public relations specialists can expect to earn starting salaries between $40,000-$45,000, entry-level salaries for attorneys start at $55,000-$60,000 and quickly go up from there.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Marketing Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Answer: Are You Willing to Travel?.

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Are all of your Instagram posts works of art? Do you love going above and beyond when drawing on Snapchat photos? Is Photoshop your second home?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might want to consider becoming a design major, where you’ll be able to learn about the principles of design, the mediums people use to create those designs and the history of art as a whole.

What is a design major?

Contrary to popular belief, being a design major is about more than just creating pretty things. It’s both an art and science, and many of your classes will deal with both of these over the course of your college career.

Design majors take courses in several different areas of study including art history, modeling, drafting, computer programming, studio art, typography and more.

Is it right for me?

If you’re still trying to decide if a design major is the right path for you, here are several key questions to ask yourself.

• Am I able to receive and incorporate constructive criticism from my professors as well as my peers? Am I excited to share my work with others, or do I dread it? Do I have a thick skin?
• Am I a team player when I have to work with peers on projects?
• Do I like spending a lot of time alone working on my designs?
• Am I ready and willing to still spend time on academic parts of the major and put as much time and effort into them as my art?
• Do I have a keen eye for design and know when art looks “good” and when it doesn’t?
• What can I do with a design degree?

For art-minded students, graduating with a design degree can open up a huge number of potential career options, including positions like illustrator, animator, art director, graphic designer, fashion designer, photographer, marketing professional, textile maker, programmer, web designer, video game designer and theater/set designer.

What do designers earn?

Because they’re in a creative field, design careers vary greatly, and therefore so do their salaries. A typical entry-level graphic designer earns around $40,000 but this could vary based on where you live (for instance, in New York City versus St. Louis) and if you’re working for a larger firm or independently as a freelancer.

Moreover, many people who major in design (especially recent grads) often take on lots of freelance projects at the beginning of their careers, which means income may be inconsistent from month to month. That doesn’t mean your total earnings will be low; it just means they could vary over time.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Design Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 6 Things to Do in Your First Week at a New Job.

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Did you love art class as a kid? Do you use every inch of paper to doodle? Do you love visiting interesting museums and exhibits? Do you look at the design of a website or graphic and wonder how it was made? If so, becoming an arts major in college may be right up your alley.

What is an arts major?

An arts major in an interdisciplinary major, weaving together multiple academic subjects like art history, painting, sculpture and photography. Additional areas of study include subjects like the business of visual arts and art therapy.

Is it right for me?

Before you start majoring in the visual arts, there are several important considerations to think about. Arts major don’t necessarily create art all the time, and there could be financial ramifications as well.

Here are several key questions to ask yourself before you officially declare yourself an arts major:

• Am I prepared for the financial costs of being an arts major, including paying for art supplies or traveling to museums or exhibits and paying fees for those?
• Am I okay with taking academic classes as well as art classes?
• Do I have a thick skin? Am I able to take and incorporate constructive criticism I receive from professors and peers?
• Am I prepared to spend much of my course of academic study alone working on my art?
• Do I enjoy spending a great deal of time visiting museums and exhibits and looking for inspiration elsewhere?

What can I do with an arts degree?

Just because you major in visual arts doesn’t necessarily mean you have to become a “starving artist,” creating your own exhibits and selling pieces. While that’s definitely a valid career option, there are other ways to make your arts degree applicable.

Some potential career paths include:

• art professor
• art therapist
• graphic designer
• advertising executive
• art critic
• fashion designer
• textile designer
• museum, gallery or exhibit curator
• art educator
• gallery owner
• filmmaker
• photographer
• photojournalist

What do artists earn?

Pursuing a career in visual arts isn’t necessarily known to be lucrative, and salaries vary wildly depending on where you live, what you do and how much work you take on at any given time.

“Fine artists” like painters, sculptors and illustrators usually make starting salaries around $40,000-$60,000 if they have steady work, whereas people in other art-related careers may make more or less depending on the type of work and how consistent it is (for example, the average annual salary for a graphic designer is $41,000 a year while the average salary for a museum curator is $53,000).

Next, learn more about this college major such as Computer Science and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Get a Letter of Recommendation.

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From creating computer games to programming technology for the CIA or building the next Facebook, there are a lot of amazing things you can do with a computer science degree. It’s an exciting and constantly evolving field with virtually unlimited growth. And did you know that several successful celebrities are former computer science majors? Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg, Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin, and even comedian Jimmy Fallon all got their start by studying computer science.

What is a computer science major?

A computer science major involves the study of computers and programming languages. Majoring in this field will help you develop great technical skills and give you a new perspective on problem-solving. You’ll learn how to break problems apart and execute them effectively.

Is it right for me?

To be successful as a computer science major, you need to enjoy the process. This means that new technologies and software should excite you and you should be comfortable throwing out what you currently know to learn something new. This will ultimately lead you into a successful future, helping you deal with hard problems inside and outside of your career.

You can start by asking yourself the following questions.

• Would I enjoy learning languages to communicate with computers?
• Am I creative, logical and persistent?
• Do I enjoy being able to solve challenging problems?
• Do I like to create tools that increase productivity?
• Do the latest technologies excite me?

What can I do with a computer science degree?

One of the best things about computer science is that it’s a rapidly-growing field. Many people with computer science degrees work as programmers or computer systems analysts, helping to build and maintain complex technological systems.

Some other potential career options include becoming a software engineer, business intelligence analyst or database administrator.

What do people with a computer science degree earn?

In addition to being an exciting field, computer science is also quite profitable. Starting salaries typically run between $50,000-$70,000, depending on location and experience. An established programmer with four to five years of experience can expect to earn anywhere from $100,000 to $120,000 per year.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Science and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Use a Blog to Apply for an Internship.

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Looking to major in design? Stellar art skills aren’t the only talents you’ll need to succeed in college. Here are five areas that are important for doing well as a design major and in your design career after college.

Creative skills

Obviously, having a keen eye and a feel for beautiful art is extremely important if you want to major in design. But going above your own creative skills, you’ll also have to learn about how others created their art and the thought processes that went into their pieces.

Part of creativity is knowing how and when to gain inspiration from others, and you’ll spend lots of time focusing on that as a design major.

Computer programming skills

Surprisingly enough, design majors need to be relatively tech-savvy nowadays, especially if they hope to pursue careers in design after college.

Knowing how to use programs like Adobe Creative Suite, HTML and CSS will propel you light-years ahead of everyone in the job market, and that begins with paying attention to honing these skills in college.

Organizational skills

Design majors are often juggling any number of projects at various stages of completion, so being able to keep yourself organized both in terms of logistics (for instance, knowing where all of your art supplies are) and creativity (like understanding what’s inspiring each particular piece) is extremely important.

Organization skills become more important if you begin getting paid for your work, even as a college student. Many design majors juggle freelance work on top of schoolwork, and it’s crucial for you to keep these different assignments straight and to also handle the business aspects of running your own side gig.

Ability to take criticism

Whether you’re working with peers, professors or clients, you’ll have to have a thick skin as a design major and know how to incorporate criticism and feedback from all sorts of people. Creative majors are definitely not for the weak-minded and often require a certain amount of resilience.

Interpersonal and communication skills

Being able to communicate effectively with people you’re working with as well as people who are critiquing your art is crucial if you want to succeed as a design major. Even more importantly, if you begin taking on clients as a design major, you’re going to have to flex your interpersonal skills to deal with client requests and handle them efficiently and effectively.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Design Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as What is an Internship?

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Whether you’re just starting your freshman year of college or even if you’re a rising junior, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of a college major. Choosing a major is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make during your college career, so it’s extra crucial that you weigh your options and choose the area of study that will benefit you the most.

Here are some things you need to know about college majors.

What is a college major?

A college major is a group of specialized courses students are required to take in order to obtain a college degree. A major usually consists of mandatory core courses and elective courses, totaling between 10-12 classes altogether. For example, if you decide to become an English major, you will be required to take core classes in classic British and American literature. Once you’ve successfully passed those, you’ll be able to take electives such as creative writing or contemporary literature.

How do you decide on a major?

Whether you already have a major in mind or you really don’t know which direction to go in, the first step to picking a major is signing up for courses that interest you and seeing how you feel about them. You should also reach out to other students who are already majoring in those subjects and ask them questions about the classes, professors and their general experience.

Finally, be sure to try a variety of different classes during your freshman and sophomore years since this is the only way you can truly discover which subject is most interesting to you.

What if you want to do more than one major?

Depending on your school, you may have the option to double major, have a major and a minor, or even make up your own major (these are usually called concentrations). Each college has their own rules and your academic advisor can walk you through your options to help you make the right choice.

If you are attending a four-year university, you will likely have to select your major by the end of your sophomore year. That means you will have four semesters to decide which area of study suits you best. Once you do decide on a major, you don’t need to worry if it ends up not working out. You can still change your major after that, but it’s better to do it sooner rather than later so you can still have time to complete all the courses required, and you won’t have to stay an extra semester.

Oftentimes, students wonder if their major will dictate their choice of career. In some cases, with specific majors like engineering or nursing, those subjects will translate into a related career. But, if you are studying a subject that has multiple applications, there’s no telling what type of profession you’ll end up with — it’s all up to you.

Pro Tip: Even if you’ve chosen a specific major and you decide you don’t really want a career in that specific field after graduation, that’s okay too. It’s never too late to choose a new direction.

Choosing a college major may seem overwhelming at first, but it’s really an exciting time for you to expand your knowledge and dig deeper into a subject you are passionate about. By trying out different courses and asking your friends, family, and academic professionals for guidance, you’ll be on your way to choosing your major in no time.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Finance and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Getting an Entry-Level Job with No Experience.

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If the idea of writing code and coming up with creative tech solutions appeals to you, then becoming a computer science major might just be for you. What’s the best way to thrive as a computer science major and set yourself up for success? It starts with having the right skill set.

Here are the top five skills the most successful computer science majors possess.

Analytical skills

Being a computer science major involves identifying a problem and coming up with a technological solution to address it. This requires having strong analytical skills that will enable you to understand the issue you’re dealing with and evaluate different solutions in order to find the one that best fits your needs.

Problem-solving skills

One of the other key skills for computer science majors is the ability to solve complex problems in a systematic and logical way. This is because most of the projects you’ll be working on will require you to take a concept and turn it into a reality. In order to do this, you’ll need to be able to think about the best way to execute the project and then outline the steps needed to get it done.

Creativity

Creativity goes hand in hand with problem solving and it’s one of the other key skills you’ll need as a computer science major. Since coming up with solutions to problems is almost never a straightforward process, out-of-the-box thinking is often required in order to ensure that you’re delivering the most innovative and effective solutions.

Critical-thinking skills

Critical thinking is an important skill to have in any major, but it’s especially important when it comes to computer science. This is because you’re going to be working on a variety of projects and using a variety of methodologies, so knowing which methodologies to use (and when to use them) is an essential part of getting the job done. By thinking critically, you’ll also be able to assess why certain solutions might not work and to save time in coming up with the right approach.

Resilience

One of the key tenets of programming (at any level) is understanding that you’re most likely going to fail before you succeed. This has nothing to do with your programming abilities and everything to do with the process itself. Programming involves trying out different elements of code until you find the best solution and learning to be resilient, determined and humble in the face of multiple failures is part of the process.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Is a Computer Science Major and Is It Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look For in a Company.

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Do you like questioning the world around you? Do you like spending hours and hours using logic to reason your way through a problem? If so, majoring in philosophy may be for you.

What is a Philosophy Major?

Contrary to popular belief, majoring in philosophy isn’t about simply sitting on a rock and pondering life’s greatest questions. You will be tackling many broad and abstract questions and using logic and ethics to sort through them but finding a solution isn’t necessarily the endgame. Philosophy majors spend a great deal of their time reading, writing and talking about their ideas, typically in smaller class settings.

What classes do philosophy majors actually take? It depends on your college’s program, but some basic classes involve logic, ethics, metaphysics, political theory, sociology and anthropology.

Is it right for me?

Before you declare yourself a philosophy major, here are some key questions to ask yourself:

• Am I a strong reader and writer? Do I enjoy reading complicated texts and communicating my thoughts and opinions?
• Am I willing to work on a complex problem until I think of potential solutions, or do I get frustrated easily?
• Do I handle criticism and feedback from peers and professionals well?
• Do I like small classroom settings where I’m required to talk several times during each class, engaging in intense discussion throughout?

What can I do with a philosophy degree?

Majoring in philosophy can actually open doors to many other careers. Very few philosophy majors become “philosophers,” but other career paths include:

• lawyer
• academic
• politician
• religious figure
• strategist

The overarching theme, however, is that a philosophy major sets people up to tackle big problems and troubleshoot solutions.

What do people who majored in philosophy earn?

While your career trajectory could differ greatly, a recent study found that philosophy majors earn an average of $82,000 when they’re 10-20 years out of college.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Philosophy Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as When to Start Applying for a Summer Internship.

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Do you have a book on hand at all times? If you love reading literature classics and discussing them with others and you consider yourself a strong communicator, majoring in literature may be for you.

What is a literature major?

A literature major involves reading and analyzing works of literature. This means discussing texts and understanding their historical, cultural and literary significance. As a literature major, you’ll be responsible for understanding and explaining the impact of texts including poems, short stories and novels.

Is it right for me?

One of the biggest questions you probably have is how a literature major differs from the more widely-known English major. While it depends on the program you’re in, English majors typically take many more classes on a variety of different genres and mediums of writing, whereas literature majors (often called “comparative literature” majors) focus on literature from either a specific place or theme.

Regardless, both English and literature majors are extremely reading- and writing-intensive, and you’ll also have to discuss your ideas in all sorts of settings, from lecture halls to seminars.

• Here are some key questions to ask yourself before you become a literature major:
• Do I possess strong writing and reading skills? Am I able to push myself to read and write about books and other works that may not be of interest to me?
• Am I comfortable sharing my thoughts and feelings on various literature with professors and peers in both large and intimate settings?
• Do I take constructive criticism and feedback well? Am I okay with both professors and peers critiquing my work and potentially disagreeing with my opinions or ideas?
• Am I interested in most likely going abroad and studying in some of the places I’m reading about?
• Am I ready and willing to take on a major capstone or thesis project towards the end of my college career?

What can I do with a literature degree?

Much like English majors, literature majors get a bad rap for studying something not transferrable to the real world, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Literature majors graduate with strong reading, writing, critical thinking and communication skills, all of which serve them well in a variety of fields.

There are a large number of career options for people with literature degrees, which include positions such as journalist, author, writer, marketer, public relations specialist, professor, copywriter, editor, technical writer, publisher and lawyer.

What do people who major in literature earn?

Salaries vary based on the career you pursue, but if you’re interested in going into some form of communications like journalism, marketing or public relations, starting salaries are usually in the $35,000-$45,000 range.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Business and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Be a Team Player.

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Are you intrigued by the mathematics or statistics courses that you’ve taken in the past? Do you feel like you solve problems in creative ways, with a numbers-driven approach? Would you be interested in helping companies plan for how to grow their revenue or maintain profitability in both the short and long term? If so, a finance major might just be for you.

What is a finance major?

Financial planning, investment decisions and analyzing/limiting expenses are all various aspects of what you can and will learn as a finance major. As a finance major, you will study how companies have performed in the past to predict how they will perform in the future, and learn how to communicate information that will drive strategic changes. Many of your assignments will be project driven, whether they be individual case studies to enhance your problem-solving ability, or group presentations to practice the way you interact with others. Typical classes in this major include accounting, economics, math and psychology.

Is it right for me?

Finance is an exciting major with plenty of career opportunities. Contrary to popular belief, it’s also a major that requires both analytical skills and a healthy dose of creativity. Above all, it will help you develop multiple skill sets at once, offering you a great chance of success in several industries after graduation.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding if a finance major is right for you:

• Am I interested in math and statistics?
• Am I a creative problem-solver who is able to overcome challenges by coming up with innovative solutions?
• Am I interested in figuring out how to help companies increase their revenue?
• Am I a good communicator who is able to express my ideas clearly and effectively?

If you responded “Yes” to all of the above, then being a finance major might just be for you.

What can I do with a finance degree?

Finance as an area of study is fairly broad and offers plenty of career options. These include:

• Investment banking
• Management consulting
• Investment management
• Corporate Finance
• Accounting
• Risk management
• And more…

If you’re interested in how companies should allocate financial resources, corporate finance may be your calling. If you’re more fascinated by financial markets, how people construct investment portfolios, wealth creation and preservation, investment management could be the route for you. And if you want to learn about probability and statistics and how they correlate to business decisions, then risk management might be the right path to pursue.

What do finance majors earn?

The salaries of finance majors vary widely depending on the careers they choose to pursue. While accountants earn an average salary of $63,000 per year, management consultants earn an average of $86,000 and investment bankers can earn upwards of $250,000.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Accounting and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Answer: What Motivates You?.

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Do you like discussing and thinking about different belief systems and how they affect history, policy and society as a whole? If so, becoming a religion major might be for you. But before you dive in, here’s what you need to know about the major.

What is a religion major?

The most important thing to know is that a religion major is not reserved for people who want to become a religious leader or clergyman; rather, the major is typically much more secular and looks at religion as a whole as well as looking at particular types of religion. While many religious figures did study religion in college, that doesn’t mean the degree can’t be helpful for many other endeavors.

What sorts of classes do religion majors take? In addition to learning about particular religions themselves (like Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam), students also take a more holistic approach by learning about the historical and sociological backgrounds of these religions. They may also take philosophy and anthropology classes to get a better understanding of how a certain religion came to be and what its current implications are.

Is It right for me?

Now that you know a little bit about the major, it’s time to ask yourself some key questions to see if it’d be a good fit for you:

• Do I like learning about other cultures and religions, or just my own?
• Am I open to taking courses in other departments that are linked to my major but not necessarily about religion?
• Am I comfortable discussing my thoughts and feelings when talking about more controversial religion-related conversations?
• Am I respectful of others when their opinions or ideas may not agree with mine?
• Do I consider myself someone who is open-minded to seeing how other people and cultures live?

What can I do with a religion degree?

Aside from becoming a religious figure in a particular faith, there are plenty of other career tracks you can take as someone who graduated with a religion degree. Some of these potential career tracks include:

• therapist
• counselor
• educator
• professor
• nonprofit worker
• government official
• lawyer
• international businessperson
• … and more

Additionally, it’s important to note that many religion majors pursue further education (like a Masters or Ph.D.) in addition to their Bachelor’s degree.

What do people who majored in religion earn?

Often religion majors end up working in a role related to a particular religion, or they do something related to aid and nonprofit work. Starting salaries in these types of fields often very but make $30,000-$45,000 to start. However, many people who major in religion go into fields where they make the world a better place, saying that that fact matters more than money.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Religion Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as When to Start Applying for a Summer Internship.

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If you’ve always been good at math and seeing trends and patterns in numbers, and you consider yourself a skilled communicator who can relay complex data analysis to others, then an accounting major (and career path) may be for you.

Accountants look at financial trends to consult nonprofits, governments and businesses on how to best do their jobs and run their organizations. These analyses must be detailed, complex and data-heavy, allowing people to gain valuable insights from them.

What is an accounting major?

Accounting majors learn how to maintain financial accounts. It prepares students to be accountants by teaching them about accounting principles like auditing, reporting, budgeting and tax regulations.

Is it right for me?

Because accountants could be responsible for an organization’s financial well-being, accountants need to be able to pay close attention to detail and handle large amounts of data at a time. One wrong error or misfiled document could lead to big problems for a company or organization.

To figure out if an accounting career could be in your future, here are several key questions to consider:

• Am I detail-oriented? Do I pay attention to detail without anyone asking me to?
• Am I good with numbers? Does working with large sets of data excite or intimidate me?
• Do I like working with things like balance sheets, profitability forms and tax filings? Do I have confidence in filling out forms like these and presenting them on behalf of a company, nonprofit or government entity?
• Am I able to see and analyze patterns in large amounts of data and relay that information to people who may not be as well-acquainted with the data as I am?

What can I do with an accounting degree?

Just because you start off crunching numbers doesn’t mean you have to spend your entire job or career doing just that. Accountants have the ability to choose whether or not to work in the public or private sector as well as if they want to work on the more business-oriented side of any company. If you’re looking to go into business and want an analytical edge on the competition, an accounting degree could be perfect for you.

What do accountants make?

The amount you’ll make with an accounting degree depends on the type of company you pursue as well as how far you decide to continue your education. College students who graduate with a degree in accounting make a median salary of $50,500. For people who choose to continue their education and become Certified Public Accountants (CPA), the median salary is $73,800, and it can climb to well over $124,000 per year. Additionally, those with a CPA certification make 5% to 15% more than their non-CPA counterparts.

Next, learn more about this college major such as the Types of Internships for Accounting Majors and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as When to Start Applying for a Summer Internship.

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Philosophy majors do a whole lot more besides sitting in a room and thinking big thoughts. It requires the ability to be a strong reader, clear and concise writer and so much more. What sorts of skills have the best philosophy majors mastered? Here are the top three skills you’ll need to succeed in this major.

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Being good at “logic” is about knowing how to look at a problem and reason through it. Philosophy majors spend lots of time looking at big issues and slowing working their way through the problem to find a solution.

Even if the questions they’re tackling are broad and abstract, the best philosophy majors are those who are dedicated to solving the biggest problems the world has encountered. Even if you won’t actually get to work on those issues during your time in college, understanding how to sort through huge problems is a must.

Reading and writing skills

The philosophy major will challenge your reading abilities, especially because many of the texts you’ll be tackling will be older, very complicated and/or translated from a different language. Thus, the most successful philosophy majors are those who can read quickly and well while taking impeccable notes.

Additionally, philosophy majors must be able to communicate their thoughts in longer papers as well as shorter reading responses. To speak about complex arguments and issues, you’ll have to be able to articulate your arguments clearly and effectively.

Communication and public speaking skills

Philosophy classes tend to be small in nature, so to be a successful major, you’ll have to be comfortable with giving your thoughts out loud to a group of peers and professors constantly. You’ll have to be confident in your ideas while also being willing to hear from others. And because you’ll be speaking often, you’ll have to make sure you’re prepared before you head into class.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Philosophy Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 6 Ways to Impress Your New Boss.

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Interested in science but not sure exactly what you’d like to study? Do you like the idea of learning about a large number of science-related topics at once? Want a major that can be applicable to the real world and help you solve challenges people encounter every day? If so, a natural sciences major may be for you.

What is a natural sciences major?

How does majoring in natural sciences differ from majoring in a specific type of science (such as biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, geology or microbiology)? Natural sciences programs are usually interdisciplinary, covering several sciences at once.

Additionally, natural sciences majors don’t just learn in the classroom; many work in labs or do on-the-ground work. Many natural sciences departments also require their majors to take on a research project (like a capstone or thesis) during the last year or two of college as a way to synthesize everything they’ve learned and apply it to a particular problem or area of study.

Another crucial consideration is what you hope to do after college. Many natural sciences majors go on to graduate school to receive a Masters, Ph.D. or other certification, so you’ll have to think about whether you’d be interested in going to grad school if your specific area of study strongly encourages or requires more schooling.

Is it right for me?

Think this major may be for you? Here are some key questions to ask yourself.

• Do I have strong math and science skills? Am I confident that I could perform well in a number of different science-related subject areas like biology, physics and chemistry?
• Am I ready to concentrate, minor or double major in another subject (most likely science-related) in addition to a broader natural sciences degree?
• Am I willing to spend extra time taking lab classes and also working in a lab over the course of my college years
• Do I like spending large amounts of time collecting and interpreting data? Am I okay with spending summers or other school breaks conducting research?
• Am I interested in ending my college career with a research project like a capstone or thesis?

What can I do with a natural sciences degree?

Natural sciences majors use their degree as a springboard into a number of different fields. Some go into research in a particular area of science, while others may choose a health- or medicine-related track.

Once armed with a natural sciences degree, graduates have gone on to any number of science-related careers including:

• physician assistants
• doctors
• nurses
• therapists
• educators
• technical writers
• engineers
• chemical or material scientists
• professors
• forensic science technicians
• surveyors
• biologists
• … and more

What do people who majored in natural sciences earn?

While you may need to attend graduate school to maximize your salary, natural sciences majors tend to do well financially after graduation. For example, a senior geologist makes a median salary of $93,000, and a clinical data manager can make a salary of well over $100,000.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Natural Sciences Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How Do I Get a Job in Another City or State?

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Love art but not sure you have what it takes to successfully grasp the complexities of being an arts major? Here are the five major skills you’ll need to succeed in any college’s art department.

Diverse design skills

At the end of the day, an artist needs to be able to create incredible art, right? But even more important than being able to design and produce thought-provoking work, artists also need to have an understanding and appreciation for the various mediums (such as paint, clay, watercolor, etc.) available to them.

Thus, as an art major, you’ll need to be excited to work with these different mediums and also different design techniques over your course of study.

Ability to take criticism

Like any creative field, majoring in visual arts means being able to take constructive criticism well, regardless of if it comes from your peers or your professors. Art is an incredibly subjective field, and everyone will have an opinion on your work.

Knowing how to incorporate critiques and suggestions and cast asides ones that aren’t helpful is an important skill that takes time to learn.

Knowledge of art history

You can’t be a successful or insightful artist unless you have an idea of the art that has come before you. While you might want to get your hands dirty working on your own art, you’ll still need a scholarly mind to discern the history of art and what different periods in art have looked like to create the best pieces you can.

Time management skills

When you’re an arts major, chances are you’re working on a number of big projects at once spanning all sorts of mediums. Being able to keep yourself on schedule is an important skill in college, and it’ll only become more critical as you transition from majoring in art in college to working in an art-related field after school.

Communication and interpersonal skills

Even though much of your time as an arts major will be spent alone working on your various pieces, it’s still incredibly important to have interpersonal skills, especially when talking to people who are viewing your art and potentially leasing or buying it for their own collections elsewhere.

The personality of an artist is often as important as the art itself, and being able to relay that message to people is crucial.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is an Arts Major And is it Right for Me and get more career tips such as 6 Ways to Impress Your New Boss.

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Whether you’re looking at houses, shopping centers, factories or skyscrapers, chances are an architect was involved in creating the designs. If you’re looking for a college major that will allow you to mix subjects like math and business while also praising your keen design eye, you might want to consider taking on a major in architecture.

What is an architecture major?

Architecture is a mix of art, science, math and business so it requires you to have a robust background in a variety of subjects. It also requires a five-year course of study rather than the standard four years for an undergraduate degree.

Throughout your time as an architecture major, you’ll take classes in areas like math (including geometry, algebra, trigonometry and calculus), science (most likely physics and engineering), statistics, computer science (particularly 3D modeling and linear programming) and art (such as drawing and art history). If the idea of undertaking a truly interdisciplinary course of study excites you, a major in architecture may be the one for you.

Is it right for me?

Here are some questions to ask yourself if you’re considering becoming an architecture major:

• Am I a strong math and art student? Can I just as easily solve complex equations as I can design models?
• Do I want a major that is interdisciplinary (combining two or more academic disciplines) instead of focusing on a particular subject?
• Do I handle criticism/critiques well, regardless of whether it comes from professors or peers?
• Am I willing to work long hours to get projects done? Am I able to work well with others on these projects?
• Regardless of the program, majoring in architecture is challenging at any college, so you must be prepared to spend lots of time on your studies and working on a variety of different projects at once.

What can I do with an architecture degree?

Architecture majors can embark on a wide variety of career paths after graduation, from construction and engineering to design and theatre.

Possible career paths include (but certainly are not limited to) becoming a licensed architect, urban planner, civil engineer, carpenter, building designer, mechanical engineer, set designer or surveyor. And that’s just the start. For more advice on what career opportunities are best for architecture majors, read Career Opportunities for Architecture Majors (link).

What do architects earn?

Salary can vary greatly by the type of job you do, but architects earn an average annual income of $79,300, with some salaries as high as $120,000. Your salary also depends on if you’re working independently or within a larger firm, as well as whether or not you’re working in the private or public sector.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Finance and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Get a Letter of Recommendation.

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If you love everything about creating and selling a new product to the audience of your choice, becoming a marketing major might be right up your alley. Marketing majors study the art and science of figuring out what people want; armed with that knowledge, they create, optimize and promote products and services to sell to a target demographic.

What does marketing actually entail? Here’s what you need to consider.

What is a marketing major?

“Marketing” is an umbrella term for anything dealing with the creation of a product or service and its subsequent branding in the hopes of getting people to buy or interact with it. Because there are so many different parts to marketing, marketing majors spend a lot of time learning about various parts of the process before concentrating and honing in on a particular area of study.

Your classes as a marketing major can vary greatly depending on the program, but potential options include advertising and promotion, marketing communications, public relations, market research, consumer behavior, marketing strategy, management and sales.

Is it right for me?

If you’re still getting the hang of what a marketing major does, here are several key questions to ask yourself:

• Do I watch TV commercials and wonder why brands made their ads a certain way?
• Am I interested in sales? Do I like figuring out the best way to pitch and sell a product to consumers of any kind?
• Do I like communicating and working with others? Do I consider my interpersonal skills to be a strong suit?
• Am I able to handle criticism and feedback from peers, professors and professionals well?
• Do I look forward to interning and gaining valuable work experience during college?
• Am I able to think creatively as well as quantitatively? Am I as willing to brainstorm interesting campaign ideas as I am to analyze metrics?
• Am I good at thinking outside the box? Can I spin things in a way that’s different to what others are doing?

Is marketing the same as advertising?

You might also be wondering how a marketing major differs from an advertising major. While both fall under most schools’ communications departments, they’re typically treated as entirely different majors.

What’s the biggest difference? Marketing is about every part of the process of brainstorming and creating a product, including how it’s packaged, sold and improved for further promotion. Advertising is only a part of marketing, but it’s an extremely crucial one that shouldn’t be overlooked. This is why it’s almost always a separate major.

What can I do with a marketing degree?

The great thing about a marketing degree is that it can prepare you to enter any number of fields related to creating and promoting a product, and your major will teach you basic marketing principles that you can use regardless of the industry you’re targeting.

Entry-level marketing roles can include:

• marketing manager
• social media marketer
• public relations account executive
• product manager
• brand partnerships manager
• advertising associate
• design specialist
• …and much more!

Additionally, some marketing majors decide to specialize their studies by going to graduate school. For instance, you may go back to school to focus on learning more about brand strategy or international marketing.

What do people who majored in marketing earn?

Marketing managers and other entry-level marketing professionals typically have salaries starting in the $35,000-$45,000 range, though there’s lots of room for promotions and salary increases depending on your field and where you work. For instance, you may start off as a marketing manager making $40,000 a year, whereas a marketing director can tip the scales at over $100,00 per year. Of course, there are plenty of exceptions: at a big company like Google, and you can make as much as $80,000 for an entry-level marketing manager position!

Next, learn more about this college major such as Education and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Dress for a Job Interview at a Corporation.

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Being a marketing major is a great way to develop your knowledge of the marketing industry and to discover what’s involved in promoting brands and products. As a marketing major, you’ll be doing things like understanding the psychology behind consumer behavior, designing marketing campaigns and learning about social media trends. To accomplish these things successfully, you’ll need to develop a strong and diverse skill set.

Here are the five skills you’ll need to succeed as a marketing major:

Creativity

Since marketing campaigns often require unique approaches, creativity is a prerequisite for anyone thinking of taking on a marketing major. During your time in college, you’ll be able to put your creativity to use by coming up with ideas for marketing campaigns in your classes and then determining the best ways to test them out.

Communications skills

Being able to communicate effectively is a crucial part of any job and this is especially true when it comes to marketing since this field is all about making a particular message or idea engaging to an audience. Having strong verbal and written communication skills is extremely important for those who are thinking of taking on this major.

Analytical skills

Since marketing is heavily driven by data and metrics, having an analytical mindset is a key component of succeeding in this major. From understanding the science behind a particular marketing strategy to being able to quantify results and demonstrate the value of a particular campaign, putting your analytical skills to use will help you understand the true power of marketing and give you insights into how you can improve on each campaign.

Organization skills

Whether you end up working for a marketing agency or as part of an in-house marketing team, once you leave college you’ll likely be in a role that requires you to do several things at once such as managing social media accounts, coming up with new campaigns and creating reports to track the performance of those campaigns. To do these things effectively, you’ll need to be able to organize your time effectively and to prioritize new tasks as they come up.

Knowledge of media trends

Since marketing requires you to capitalize on media trends in order to develop successful campaigns, having a solid understanding of those trends (and why they matter) is an important aspect of being a marketing major. In addition to being interested in media trends and marketing campaigns, marketing majors will also benefit from having a sense of why certain strategies work when others don’t.

By knowing what to expect from a marketing major and developing the right skill set, you’ll be able to maximize the impact of your studies and to set yourself up for success after graduation.

Next, learn more about this college major such as the Career Opportunities for Marketing Majors and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as the Top 10 Things You Should Look For In an Internship.

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If spending all day deep in the world of science and getting to help people along the way sounds like the perfect career to you, majoring in something health- or medicine-related may be the right fit. But before you officially dive into that world, here are 5 important skill sets that successful health and medicine majors have.

Science and quantitative skills

It goes without saying, but health and medicine majors need to have serious science and quantitative chops to work in their fields. Most of your classes will be related to science (and sometimes math), so if you feel that these are strongest subject areas, you could definitely keep up with the rigor that comes with health and medicine majors.

Interpersonal skills

Regardless of what part of the health or medical field you end up going into, you’ll be working with patients and other healthcare professionals constantly, and being able to be calm and helpful at all times is an important skill.

You’ll have to show this same level of dedication to working and getting along with others during your health and medicine studies, both in the classroom and on the ground if your major requires you to work at a clinic, hospital or other facility that provides health care.

Attention to detail

Medicine is a detail-oriented field, so health and medicine majors are meticulous when it comes every part of the process. From filling out paperwork to working with real patients, you’ll need to make sure your T’s are crossed and I’s are dotted every step of the way if you want to be successful in college and beyond.

Problem-solving skills

At the end of the day, health and medicine are about solving the numerous issues that others deal with, and often you’ll have to think of creative and unique solutions to help. Health and medicine majors are people who are excited by taking on new challenges and finding interesting ways the conquer those challenges.

Ability to work well under pressure

Whether it’s taking difficult exams or trying to diagnose a patient, health and medicine majors are constantly being pushed to their limits to find answers quickly. If you like the feeling of working at a fast pace and handle pressure well, you won’t be phased by whatever comes your way throughout your college years.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Mastering Your Summer Internship and find answers to common interview questions such as Why Do You Want to Work Here?.

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Wonder how social groups came to be and want to understand the forces affecting our culture today? A sociology major may be for you.

What is a sociology major?

The “official” definition for sociology is that it’s the study of institutions; however, that’s a pretty vague idea. To go more in-depth, sociology looks at how groups of people behave and how they interact with society as a whole.

In sociology classes, you’ll tackle broad social theory and general concepts of human behavior in your introductory classes before getting to study specific groups, places or units. For example, you may take a class on the sociology of the family, where you’ll talk about what it means to be part of a family unit both historically and in the present-day. Then, you’ll connect other topics to your discussions. For instance, how do laws regulating family planning change how families operate? If people are getting married later, how does that affect family structure?

What is the difference between sociology, psychology and anthropology?

Many people wonder what the difference is between psychology and sociology. While the two are definitely linked (and often students may double-major in both or major in one while minoring in the other), psychology focuses on the behavior of the individual, whereas sociology focuses on the behavior of groups.

People have similar questions about sociology versus anthropology. Anthropology studies the history of the behavior of humans, so there’s definitely an added component of what the past tells us about the present.

Is It right for me?

Before you take on a sociology major, here are some key questions to ask yourself:

• Am I a strong reader and writer? Do I look forward to reading and interpreting both original texts and the theories of others in the field?
• Am I open-minded? How do I react if people in class make a statement or argument I don’t agree with?
• Do I take criticism and feedback well? Will I be phased if a peer or professor disagrees with me?
• Am I excited to do field work that requires me to spend many hours surveying a group of people, analyzing the data, and presenting it?
• Am I willing to take on a longer research project, like a capstone or thesis?

What can I do with a sociology degree?

Some may be perplexed as to what can be done with a sociology degree, but by studying such a broad topic and also having the opportunity to concentrate, sociology majors are able to work in a variety of fields.

A small sampling of positions that sociology majors have gone on to include:

• Professor
• Community organizer
• Educator
• Activist
• Politician
• Political scientist
• Non-profit aid worker
• Social worker

What do people who majored in sociology earn?

While it certainly doesn’t apply to all sociology majors, many go into careers of public service or aid work, which means salaries won’t necessarily be high. Starting salaries range anywhere from $25,000-$40,000. However, many of these former sociology majors find their work meaningful and life-changing, which can mean even more than a paycheck.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Sociology Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Should I Intern as a College Freshman?

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Before you dive in and start surveying populations, there are some things you need to know about becoming a sociology major. Here are the most important skills you’ll need in order to be successful in this major.

Reading and writing skills

Sociology requires a great deal of reading. As part of your major, you’ll have to read both original texts as well as critiques of ideas from other academics and people in the space. To be successful as a sociology major, you’ll have to not just read these texts but annotate and understand them as well.

Additionally, sociology majors write plenty of reading responses, research papers and other reports, so you’ll need to have a clear and concise writing style to present your ideas.

Critical thinking skills

In sociology, you’ll be thinking and talking about complex problems that will require you to give serious critiques and arguments. Nothing in sociology should ever be taken at face value, so you’ll have to be sure to think critically in the classroom.

Communication skills

While your introductory sociology classes may be lecture-style, as you take more and more classes, you’ll be in smaller classroom settings where you’ll have to present your ideas to a group of peers.

The best sociology majors are those who come prepared for class, have thought about their ideas and arguments and can present them in a thoughtful and articulate manner. If you want to thrive in this major, strong communication skills are a must.

Research skills

Having strong research skills is also critical for sociology majors. Since sociology requires you to survey populations by creating your own experiments, understanding how to structure an experiment and write up the results is a key factor in being able to succeed in this major.

Open-mindedness and patience

Sociology classes often discuss a number of emotionally charged topics, from racial discrimination to family planning. Regardless of where you go to school, you’re guaranteed to find someone in a sociology class whose argument you find disagreeable or even offensive.

Sociology majors need to be open-minded to the ideas of their peers to figure out what they came to those conclusions. But they also need to know when to pick their battles and the mediums through which to present their arguments.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Sociology Major and is It Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look For In An Internship.

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If you’re a huge fan of social sciences like political science, economics, anthropology, sociology and geography, becoming a global studies major may be for you. If you choose to take on this course of study, you’ll be examining, comparing and contrasting different cultures and the issues they face.

What is a global studies major?

A global studies major is a broad, interdisciplinary social science major. Your classes will cover subjects areas like economics, statistics, political science, history and geography, focusing in on specific cultures and issues within each of these broader categories.

Most global studies program also offer you the ability to concentrate on a particular culture or issue, especially during your last year or two in college. For example, you may broadly study women’s issues and then narrow your personal research focus to women’s issues in Southeast Asia.

Is it right for me?

• Before committing to the major, here are some important questions to ask yourself.
• Am I able and excited to learn a language (and possibly even multiple languages)?
• Do I want to (and have the financial means to) go abroad? Am I excited to immerse myself in other cultures?
• Do I like keeping up with current events and understanding how they fit with larger historical patterns?
• Am I able to look at the big picture of different places as well as look at them on a more culture-specific level?
• Would I be okay with dedicating my time to a long-term project, like a capstone or thesis

What can I do with a global studies degree?

The great thing about a global studies degree is that the knowledge base is broad and gives you the ability to pursue a variety of fields based on your other interests. Some of the careers you can get with a global studies major include:

• journalist/correspondent
• government official
• politician
• international businessperson
• lawyer
• salesperson
• travel guide
• nonprofit leader
• diplomat
• humanitarian worker
• educator
• … and more

What does someone who majored in global studies earn?

Because there are many career option for global studies majors, there’s no consensus on the salary range among majors in this group. For example, a humanitarian worker is likely to have a starting salary of $25,000-$30,000 while a government worker is much more likely to be in the $40,000-$50,000 range.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Global Studies Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as When to Start Applying for a Summer Internship.

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Because global studies majors are studying so many different social science disciplines, knowing how to best tackle such an interdisciplinary major can be tricky. Here are several key skills you’ll need to be able to stay on top of your work and get the most out of your major.

Reading skills

Typically social science classes tend to be much more reading-intensive than other majors, so you should expect to spend lots of your time reading during the week. Being a “good” reader isn’t just about actually opening a book; it’s knowing how to take great notes and really absorb what you’re learning.

Critical thinking skills

Global studies majors need to be able to think critically about big picture issues and how they affect specific cultures and communities. Doing so requires people who can think about the bigger vision as well as small details and also apply those thoughts when trying to solve complex problems.

Problem-solving skills

Global studies majors are looking at a variety of social problems and discussing how they can be solved. The best global studies majors will be able to make compelling arguments and provide innovative solutions to issues affecting the world and these different communities.

Research skills

Global studies requires a lot of research and citing to back up claims, so you’ll have to be comfortable doing heavy research for assignments and projects and also citing your sources correctly. Additionally, streaming your research process and keeping yourself organized are a critical part of this major.

Communication skills

Whether it’s through writing or public speaking, global studies majors are constantly communicating ideas and findings to peers and professors. Doing so requires confidence in your abilities to communicate clearly and effectively regardless of the platform, the topic or your audience.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Marketing and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Write a Cover Letter.

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Studying finance is both challenging and rewarding and when preparing to do so, it’s important to assess your skill set and understand whether the major is a good fit for you. You should also ask yourself these important questions: What types of abilities will I need to possess to be successful if I pursue a finance degree? Are they inherited or acquired? Can I get better at these skills through time?

Here are some of the most common skills you’ll need as a finance major:

Problem-Solving Skills

As a finance major, you’ll constantly be asked to change the status quo of a situation given a set number of variables. Companies often ask, “How do we enhance performance and minimize resources within this period of time?” To answer these questions, you’ll need to assess what can be done differently, spot trends within industries and evaluate potential opportunities.

Quantitative and Statistical Analysis Skills

Finance is driven heavily by numbers. If math and statistics have been areas of strength for you in the past, you’re likely to thrive as a finance major. In order to understand and analyze data, link concepts and derive conclusions based on these findings, you will need a strong mathematical foundation.

Microsoft Excel Skills

Having strong Microsoft Excel skills goes hand in hand with analyzing data. This is because working in finance involves putting together financial models that can be used to test out an investment strategy or financial decision. To build up your Excel skills, you’ll need to spend time learning the various features and functions of the program and then practice creating models, charts and pivot tables.

Creativity

Creativity is often an underrated skill when it comes to finance. This skill is often thought of as something that’s prominent in the arts, but it’s also a common trait of those who succeed as finance majors. In your classes, you’ll be asked to come up with unique solutions to problems or even implement proven solutions in unique ways. You’ll showcase your creativity through how you report the data you study and how you answer any pushback you might receive on concepts your present.

Communication Skills

The ability to communicate your analysis, findings and conclusions is really important as you head toward a career in finance. This is because in any finance-related position, you will need to effectively talk through complex data to show how various aspects of the business may be impacted. As a finance major, you’ll be put through a series of different projects, both individually and in group presentations, to hone your communication skills and prepare you for a potential career path within the industry.

While there are other traits to being a successful finance major, these are a few that you will need regardless of what specialization or industry you end up pursuing.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Finance Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look For In An Internship.

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Do you love working with numbers? Do you love the fact that numbers in themselves are a whole other language? Want to spend your day problem-solving and working with others? If so, being a math major might be perfect for you.

Many people are intimidated by the thought of majoring in math, or they have misconceptions about what math majors actually do. Here’s what the life of a math major is really like, so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What is a math major?

Becoming a math major is about more than just being good with numbers; it requires a big time commitment that includes going to class, meeting with study groups and teaching assistants (TAs) and solving problem sets. If you’re willing to take the time to be successful in the major, it can definitely be the right track for you.

Additionally, the term “math” is broad, which means that math majors often tackle a number of different topics within that concept. Potential classes include algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geometry, computational mathematics, statistics, number theory and discrete math. Thus, even if you consider yourself a “good” math student in school, you’ll want to be sure you can do well in any math course, not just in a particular subject area like calculus.

Furthermore, many math majors often concentrate in a particular math subject or even major or minor in that area. It’s not uncommon to meet people who double major in math and computer science or math and statistics.

It’s also important to note that often people in more quantitative fields decide to pursue graduate degrees (a Masters, PhD or specialized certification program), so that will also have to factor into your decision as well.

Is it right for me?

Here are several key questions to ask before pursuing a math major in college:

• Am I willing to put in extra time going to study groups or TA (teaching assistant) sessions to work on my problem sets?
• Do I like problem-solving, especially when the answer doesn’t come easily to me at first? Am I willing to work on a particular problem as long as it takes, no matter how hard it is?
• Am I willing to ask for help from a professor or TA if I need it?
• Do I like working on different types of math, including calculus, algebra, statistics, geometry and computational mathematics?
• Would I be open to double-majoring, minoring or focusing on a particular area of math, like statistics, accounting or computer science?
• Am I interested in pursuing a graduate degree to supplementing my undergraduate one if my career called for it?

What can I do with a math degree?

Very few people with math degrees go on to be “mathematicians” per se, but the great thing about this degree is that if you want to work in a quantitative field after you graduate from college, a math major gives you many diverse options.

Math majors have gone on to a number of interesting positions, including:

• professor
• investment banker
• financial/business analyst
• accountant
• statistician
• researcher
• information technology analyst
• engineer
• programmer
• …and more

What do people who majored in math earn?

Great news: Majoring in math and pursuing a quantitative career involving numbers and research can give you a great ROI (return on investment) after graduation. For example, actuaries make a median salary of $70,000, and operations research analyst managers have a median salary of $146,000.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for a Math Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as What is an Internship?

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Think that majoring in architecture sounds useful, but aren’t sure if you’ll be able to thrive in the department? Here are five major skill sets you’ll need to be successful during your college years as an architecture major and beyond.

Math and science skills

Even though many people see an architect’s finished product and think it’s about design, architecture is heavily rooted in strong mathematical and scientific skills, including geometry, algebra, engineering, programming and physics.

To succeed as an architecture major, you’ll have to have strong math and science skills to understand how and why certain designs and ideas may or may not work before they’re built. Your calculations, after all, could make or break a project.

Design skills

Unsurprisingly, design skills are extremely important, regardless of whether you’re creating a new piece of machinery or designing an entire building. Architecture majors need to be able to have calculations to back up their claims, but anything they build must look elegant as well.

Analytical and problem-solving skills

When it comes to majoring in architecture, it’s not enough to know which equations to type into a calculator or computer program; you need to understand how those calculations act in practice and not just in theory. You also need to be able to understand why certain numbers aren’t working out as well as how to fix them.

The same principles go for the design side of being an architecture major: Why are some designs and plans better than others? How can you continuously improve your work? This desire to never leave anything unsolved will serve you well in architecture.

Team-building skills

Architecture majors are working with many other people, like designers, engineers and other architecture majors when creating complex projects, so it’s important to know how to not only be part of a team but how to lead one when necessary.

Communication skills

Because you will be working with so many different types of people as an architecture major, you’ll have to be able to efficiently and effectively communicate your ideas to people who work on various projects. This also means knowing how to explain your ideas and findings in a number of different ways so people of varying knowledge and experience levels can understand what you’re talking about.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is an Architecture Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as What is an Internship?

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Do you love helping people and spreading knowledge? Are you passionate about a specific academic subject (or subjects)? If so, an education major might be for you.

What is an education major?

An education major is designed to help college students develop the skills to teach others. Combining the ability to create engaging lessons with the desire to spread knowledge, this major is all about learning the most effective ways to become a teacher. Typical classes in this major include educational psychology, history of education and public policy classes.

Is it right for me?

Fast-moving and always changing, the field of education is best suited for someone who welcomes challenges and looks for variety in their work. An educator’s job never stops; you can never truly know where your influence on others will begin or end and choosing this as a career means that you are dedicated to continually helping others grow intellectually and socially.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding if an education major is right for you:

• Am I creative? Do I enjoy looking at something from a variety of perspectives and discovering ways to connect divergent topics?
• Am I curious? Do I constantly seek out new technologies, research and ideas?
• Am I communicative? Do I listen with the intent to understand others when they are speaking and then find ways to relay information for a diverse population in a manner that they can relate to?
• Am I conscientious? Do I make a concerted effort to know the purpose behind my actions and reflect on ways to continually grow?
• Am I compassionate? Do I empathize with others and seek to improve the state of the world for all around me?

If you responded “Yes” to all of the above questions, then being an education major might be for you.

What can I do with an education degree?

Although teaching is the obvious career path for those in the field of education, education majors are not limited to teaching once they receive their degree. Education majors can look into positions and graduate degrees involving:

• library sciences
• instructional technology
• special education
• administration
• curriculum design
• counseling
• educational development
• managerial training
• …and more

What do educators earn?

Although this is probably not surprising, most careers in education don’t pay a great deal of money. The average salary for an elementary or high school teacher is $45,000. However, the average salary goes up significantly for educators working at the university level, with full-time professors earning an average of $114,000.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Types of Skills Are Best for an Education Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How Much Should I be Paid at an Entry-Level Job?

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A scientist, an actor, a chief executive officer and a philanthropist. What do these four professions have in common? They all possess skills that you will need as an educator.

This is because the list of abilities that define an effective educator is almost endless. However, there are several qualities that the best educators do have in common: curiosity, creativity, communication and compassion.

Curiosity

An educator’s learning is never complete; you must be the type of individual who has an insatiable hunger for knowledge. An educator is the type of person who is curious about what will inspire his students, how his students learn best and how to guide his students to learn as much as possible. Educators cannot be afraid to look ahead, attempting new things and reflecting on the impact of past and current practices.

Creativity

Being an educator requires a great deal of creativity and the ability to generate new ideas and then combine those with prior knowledge in order to problem solve for the best results. What helps one student learn may not work for another, so an educator is always flexible in his thinking, seeking to create novel ways to engage his students.

Communication

As an educator, you must first listen to understand others and then be able to discover ways to relay information for diverse populations in a manner that they can relate to. Because education is a major in which the expression of thoughts is vital, educators have to enjoy other’s stories and seek them out.

Compassion

Knowledge is meaningless without an underlying desire to use it for the betterment and welfare of others. Tolerance, acceptance and the ability to empathize with others are important elements of compassion and vital for an effective educator to possess. A compassionate educator is an advocate for her students, for himself and for the profession.

In summary, skills required for education majors can vary but the dispositions that guide how skills are used is vital; an educator should be intellectually curious with the ability to creatively problem solve in order to make informed decisions for the good of all involved. Education as a career path will reap rewards beyond the material to those of inspiration, gratitude, kindness, and the extension of knowledge for future generations.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Global Studies and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Set Career Goals.

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A computer science major is a wonderful opportunity to develop your coding and problem-solving skills while learning about the technology industry. And because computer science majors are in high demand, it’s also a great way to open up the door to multiple career opportunities, including those related to new technologies like machine learning, virtual reality and artificial intelligence.

Here are just a few of the many technological trends creating opportunities for computer science majors.

Virtual Reality (VR)

In the past couple of years, we’ve seen substantial advancement in the field of virtual reality with new hardware and programming making it possible to create the immersive digital experience experts having been trying to develop for years. At the moment, virtual reality is especially popular in the video game industry and the need for software developers and product managers is increasing steadily in this field. If you’re interested in learning more about cutting edge technology, working on video game development with VR technology might be a good fit for you.

What to learn

The main programming languages are C++ or C#. These languages will be handy once you start actually developing content in Unity and Unreal game engines, which are the main Software Development Kits (SDKs) used in VR.

Internet of Things (IoT)

Not too long from now, we’ll start to witness machines communicating with each other. Smartphones, cars, bridges, even trash cans will have the ability to “talk” to one another other. In its essence, IoT is about bringing together devices through the use of sensors, cloud and data and it’s a trend that promises to affect almost every industry from retail to technology, creating new job opportunities along the way.

What to learn

IoT itself is really broad, so let’s break it into three categories:

● Embedded programming: C/C++ and Python
● Device Level (Smartphones and tablets) : Android and iOS
● Hardware and basic electrical engineering

Machine Learning / Artificial Intelligence

TechTarget defines machine learning as a type of artificial intelligence (AI) that allows computers to learn without being explicitly programmed. At present, most machine learning is used for crunching large sets of data that power technologies including:

● Virtual reality assistants (e.g., Siri)
● Intelligent agents (e.g., automated online assistants)
● Expert systems (e.g., medical decision support systems, smart grid)
● Embedded software (machine monitoring and control systems)
● Autonomous robots (including self-driving vehicles)
● Purpose-built smart machines (such as neural computers)

Because of the broad range of applications machine learning enables, the technology is affecting every type of company from social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to eCommerce companies looking to interact with their customers more easily. If you’re interested in learning more about machine learning, working as a developer in one of these industries could be a great fit for you.

What to learn

According to Machine Learning Mastery, a website dedicated to teaching machine learning, the most popular languages are R, Python, SQL, SAS, Java and MATLAB. There are also a lot of open source projects like Tensor Flow that allow you to develop your skills and learn at your own pace.

Virtual reality, machine learning and Internet of Things offer the most untapped potential for computer science majors to explore. Whether you’re considering a paid or unpaid internship or an entry-level job, entering these industries will be beneficial for you in the long term, especially as the industries become more mature.

Next, find out more about opportunities for computer science majors such as the Types of Internships for Computer Science Majors and Types of Entry-level Jobs for Computer Science Majors.

This article was written in partnership with the team at Outco.

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If you’re majoring in computer science, an internship is one of the best ways to explore career paths in the tech industry. In addition to learning on-the-job responsibilities, you’ll also discover what types of team dynamics best fit your style of working. As an intern, you’ll usually be paired with a more experienced engineer who will act as your mentor, giving you guidance on the technical aspects of your project as well as helping you to manage and execute it. While you don’t have to go into engineering just because you’re a computer science major, an internship will offer you the opportunity to see what the field is like and whether it’s a good fit for you. And because computer science majors are very in demand among employers, the internship is also likely to be very well compensated.

Here are the most common types of internships for computer science majors.

Front-End Engineering Intern

As a front-end engineering intern, you’ll gain real-world experience working on the user-facing portion of a website or application. In addition to writing code in HTML, CSS and Javascript, you’ll also be testing and debugging that code to ensure that the user experience is as smooth and immersive as possible. During your internship, you’ll get hands-on experience executing challenging projects and helping to build incredible products.

Back-End Engineering Intern

As a back-end engineering intern, you’ll be working with the data that powers a website or application and using programming languages like Python, Ruby and Java to connect the server, application and database. Similar to a front-end developer, your responsibilities will include writing code pertaining to your project and testing the code to ensure a robust finished product. You’ll also be responsible for debugging and figuring out which parts of your product are not working properly. In addition, you’ll most likely go through code reviews to make sure that you develop best practices and that you learn to work in an agile development environment.

Full-Stack Software Engineering Intern

As a full-stack engineering intern, you’ll be combining the best of both worlds by working on both front-end and back-end technologies, seeing how data flows through the application and how it’s transferred and displayed. By being actively involved with the technological components the customer sees and with the back-end data that powers the site, you’ll quickly develop an understanding of the different technologies and you’ll be able to implement optimizations to enhance performance. This is a great internship for anyone who wants to understand how to build a feature end-to-end.

Information Security Intern

Security is what protects every company’s confidential information. During this type of internship, you’ll be able to see the security challenges that companies face on a daily basis and to understand how to react in such situations. This type of internship is especially common in the healthcare and finance industries where information security is used to protect patient records and sensitive financial materials.

Mobile Engineering Intern

As a mobile engineering intern, you’ll be working with one or more types of mobile technologies to develop user-facing applications. Depending on what type of mobile technology you’re working with (iOS vs. Android), you’ll be using different types of code and potentially getting both front-end and back-end development experience.

iOS Engineering Intern

As an iOS engineering intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience developing apps that are specific to Apple. You’ll be using XCode, Swift and maybe even React Native to work on both front-end and back-end components of the app, thereby getting full-stack experience. Patience will be necessary as you learn the process of publishing to the App Store, which includes provisioning profiles, getting developer certificates and submitting apps once they’re developed.

Android Engineering Intern

As an Android engineering intern, you’ll work with a team to design and build advanced applications for the Android platform. Communication will be very important as you collaborate with cross-functional teams to define, design and ship new features. You’ll also assist with technical planning, development and systems integration on client engagements from the definition phase all the way to implementation. Critical thinking is essential in this internship since you’ll be analyzing requirements, wireframing and listing capabilities of related systems to propose appropriate solutions.

Product Management Intern

An increasingly popular type of internship for computer science majors is a product management internship. This involves working with a team of engineers to develop the strategy and roadmap of a specific product as well as to QA test the product. As a product management intern, you’ll also act as a bridge between the engineering and marketing teams, helping to do market research and come up with effective marketing strategies for your product.

Data Scientist Intern

If developing statistical modeling, segmentation, quantitative analyses and customer profiling sounds exciting to you, then you may want to intern as a data scientist. During this internship, you’ll learn how to build and deploy complex statistical models to generate powerful insights and predictions useful to the business. Part of your job will also be to discover new insights in order to best understand your customers by performing advanced statistical analysis and modeling.

Data Engineering Intern

As a data engineering intern, you’ll be collecting, storing and processing data and creating a system that will allow others (particularly data scientists) to analyze that data. Combining coding skills with an understanding of data science, data engineers create infrastructure for processing huge amounts of data, enabling data scientists to do their job more effectively.

Whether you’re considering a summer internship or an internship during the school year, taking on an internship will give you the experience you need to pursue a career in the technology industry after graduation.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Is a Computer Science Major and Is It Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as When to Start Applying for a Summer Internship.

* This article was written in partnership with the team at Outco.

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As an arts major, you may be wondering how your passion for art factors into the real world. The good news is that because of the many and varied skills you develop during your major, there are a lot of career opportunities available to you after graduation. Not sure what you want to do? An internship is the best way to explore all of your options and gain some professional experience.

Here are just a few of the best internships for arts majors:

Art gallery intern

As an art gallery intern, your responsibilities vary from clerical, communications-related tasks to those that are more organizational. This internship will familiarize you with the setting and running of an art gallery — from maintaining the gallery space to communicating with national and local artists. You may assist with gallery exhibitions in every capacity from installing artwork to adjusting the lightwork and eventually dismantling, repackaging and shipping the exhibits to another gallery. You will also get to build your professional exposure to the art world with duties such as researching and compiling information about artists, looking into art sale techniques and engaging guests during shows.

Art therapy intern

Whether you have previous clinical experience or not, as an art therapy intern you’ll be shadowing certified art therapists in group sessions. You may assist in the logistics of the session and gain experience as a part of a team of professionals. By working as an art therapy intern, you’ll also be exposed to the use of creative and expressive arts in settings such as a hospital, community and youth care or rehabilitation facility. This is a great opportunity to use your skills to help others and to learn the real impact of art in a clinical setting.

Graphic design intern

A graphic design internship is great exposure to the field of graphic, and a step up the ladder towards a full-time job after graduation. You could get accepted for a graphic design internship at an ad agency, a corporate firm or an art studio. During your internship, you will be assisting a graphic designer in designing prototypes, logos, social media graphics, flyers or whatever the organization requires.

Photography intern

Whether you’re capturing a candid of the bride in an extravagant wedding or researching stock photos to accompany a magazine article, a photography internship involves a great deal of hands-on experience, collaboration and insight. You could be employed at an in-house studio, a magazine or a newspaper. There’s a lot you can learn on the job, from the extent of communication required with related departments such as costume & make-up to what it takes to organize and categorize photo submissions or assist in print production.

Marketing intern

Your creative insight and discipline as an artist will come in handy in a marketing internship. Whether you are interning for a marketing organization or a marketing division of a huge corporate company, a marketing internship gives you more than a general idea about the marketing industry. From writing copy to working on concept creation or even to a stint in a public relations department, you’ll be able to experience several facets of the marketing industry and apply your creative skill to each one.

From knowing the story behind every nook in an art gallery to researching a rare sculpture, or creating a great design, an internship is a wonderful and safe space for art majors to explore, learn and re-invent themselves.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is an Arts Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look for in an Internship.

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Being a journalism major is a great way to build communication and storytelling skills. These skills that can be applied to any number of professional industries and having them will make you a competitive candidate in whatever career you choose to pursue. If you’ve already taken on a journalism internship during your time in college, then you know that a journalism degree can open up the door to plenty of career opportunities.

Here are some of the most common entry-level jobs for journalism majors:

Reporter

As a reporter, your primary responsibilities will be to researching and report on news stories. In this role, you’ll be conducting interviews, writing articles, fact-checking and networking. If you enjoy knowing about news stories right as they happen and are comfortable working with tight deadlines, this role could be a perfect fit for you.

Editorial Assistant

As an editorial assistant, you’ll be putting your speaking and writing skills to use. In this role, you’ll assist in all stages of the publishing process from helping to get stories commissioned to ensuring that writers submit their work on time. This is a role that can vary greatly depending on whether you’re working at a publishing house, a print magazine, a gossip website or a company newsletter but regardless of the publication you’re working for, you’ll be helping to curate content that is relevant to that publication. To succeed in this role, you’ll need excellent organizational skills, attention-to-detail and a passion for learning the ins and outs of publishing and digital media.

Copy editor

A copy editor plays a crucial role in the production of any print or digital publication and is responsible for ensuring that the final copy does not contain any typos or grammatical errors. As a copy editor, you’ll be on the lookout for omissions and inconsistencies in the articles you edit, as well as ensuring that the content you’re working with adheres to the particular style of the publication you’re working on. This is a wonderful role for anyone who is detail-oriented and passionate about showcasing great stories in the best possible light.

Digital Content Writer

As a digital content writer, you’ll be working with the editorial and creative higher-ups to bring marketing campaigns and strategies to life. You’ll also contribute to SEO-friendly content and develop ideas for future marketing content. This is a perfect role for a good communicator who is interested in writing engaging content.

Communications Coordinator

Your journalism major can also come in handy when it comes to landing a role as a communications coordinator, a role that involves coordinating a company’s promotional materials and social media activity, as well as building and maintaining relationships with media outlets. From writing press releases to organizing and overseeing promotional events, a communications coordinator strengthens the communication between the client, the company’s customers and the media. This is a great role for anyone interested in helping companies develop their public presence.

Being a journalism major will give you the skills you need to become a competitive candidate in almost any industry. The key to finding an entry-level job that works for you is knowing what you’re passionate about and what you can expect from the role. By having a solid understanding of some of the most common job opportunities for journalism majors, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Journalism Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 6 Ways to Impress Your Boss.

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When you’re looking at what to study in school, it’s extremely important to look at the larger skill sets you’ll need to not only complete a college major but thrive within that area of study.

If you’re looking at a degree in accounting, there are three main skills you’ll need, and some may not be what you thought.

Analytical and Quantitative Skills

Accounting is a number-heavy major that requires strength in areas like math and statistics. Being able to see and understand patterns in data and then find solutions is rooted in strong quantitative skills, so if these are areas you enjoy and are strong in, an accounting major may be up your alley. Many accounting programs require several years of different math and statistics classes, so be prepared to spend a lot of time learning those subjects.

Problem-Solving Skills

Rarely do accountants deal with numbers in a vacuum, so the most successful accounting majors will be able to apply their math and statistics skills to solving complex problems that affect organizations on a high level.

Problem-solving doesn’t just happen in your math and statistics courses, either. Many accounting programs require students to take classes in economics, business and marketing, so you’ll have to be effective at taking the numbers and using them to your advantage across different academic disciplines.

Communication Skills

There’s often a misconception that accounting majors spend all day crunching numbers, when in reality, they must also be able to communicate their findings to people from all different fields.

To be a successful accounting major, you must be able to communicate your process and findings through oral and written communication as effectively and efficiently as possible. You’ll often be asked to present projects and other findings to your professors and in front of groups of all sizes. The best accounting majors will graduate with the ability to communicate effectively to any audience.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Natural Sciences and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 20 Entry-Level Job Questions and Answers.

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One of the best things about being a design major is the ability to develop a broad range of technical and creative skills. And although design is considered primarily a creative field, these skills can have practical applications in multiple professions. The best way to find out which profession is right for you is by doing an internship. This will offer you some insights into different career paths while also giving you the type of hands-on experience that will make you a competitive candidate after graduation.

Here are some of the most common internships for design majors:

Graphic design intern

A graphic design internship will give you the chance to learn about graphic design, a field dedicated to communicating ideas visually. As a graphic design intern, you’ll assist with technical tasks such as creating hard and soft copy files, writing reports and mailing, printing and stuffing materials. You’ll also shadow a graphic designer, attend meetings, compile databases and assist the design team with creative work related to existing projects. During your internship, you’ll learn how to turn creative processes into practical ones and you’ll also develop the ability to think on your feet and get organized in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

UX design intern

The UX in UX design stands for user experience, and this is what a UX design internship focuses on. During your internship, you’ll learn what goes into ensuring that the user experience of a particular website is as smooth, easy, comfortable and all-around amazing as possible. As an intern, you’ll learn how to create responsive app or digital product designs and you’ll understand exactly how much knowledge and effort goes into every step of the UX design process.

Interior design intern

An interior design internship will acquaint you with the various skills and technicalities involved in an interior design career. From note-taking during client meetings, to organizing and coordinating materials, visiting vendors and answering emails, you’ll be involved in every aspect of the role. You’ll also assist with the actual design process, learning to tailor designs according to client interests, budgets and overall feasibility. It’s an experience that will help you decide if you have the inclination and skills required to make it as a full-time interior designer.

Fashion design intern

A fashion design internship offers you a behind-the-scenes look into the world of fashion. From cutting fabric to planning model fittings and managing the logistics of fashion events, this internship will give you an in-depth look at everything involved in designing and manufacturing clothes. Whether you’re working for a store brand or a large fashion house, this experience will help you build the skills you need to work in fashion.

Design internships can be both informative and fulfilling, making the most of your creativity, drive and ambition. By taking on one or more of these internships during your time in college, you’ll be able to learn the ins and outs of a design-related profession and to find a career path that’s just right for you.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Design Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Become a Confident Public Speaker.

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Design majors are known for their creativity and diverse skills, qualities that make them employable in many professional industries. If you’re a design major and you’ve already taken on a design internship, then you have some idea of where you degree can take you and how you can turn your major into a rewarding career. From designing websites and graphics to assisting in the planning of Fashion Week, you have a range of opportunities ahead of you.

Here are some of the most common entry-level jobs for design majors:

Graphic designer

As a graphic designer, you could be employed by a nonprofit organization, a huge advertising firm or a media company. As part of your role, you’ll be involved in the process of preparing, coordinating and creating materials for everything from a logo to a branding campaign. This involves coming up with an initial idea, presenting it to the client and then delivering the finished product. In addition to being able to design and present your ideas, you’ll also need to regularly update your knowledge by keeping up to date on design and media trends and taking additional classes and workshops. This is a great position for someone who wants to maximize their creative skills while helping companies bring their brands to life.

UX designer

A UX designer is responsible for helping customers navigate an app or product easily by ensuring the navigation process is as hassle-free and exciting as possible. From designing the look and feel of a company’s website to developing a design that thoroughly reflects a product’s goals, a UX designer is in charge of all of the elements that go into creating a great user experience. In this position, you’ll use your expertise to optimize a potential customer’s experience by dialing up its functionality, ease of use and aesthetics to the highest possible degree. This is a perfect role for someone interested in the more technical and digital side of design.

Fashion designer

As a fashion designer, your creativity and sense of style will be put to use as you work with a clothing brand to design clothes for their customers. Your day-to-day tasks will consist of sketching designs, coordinating with manufacturers and working through the technical aspects of clothing design. You’ll also need to stay on top of current fashion trends both in the U.S. and abroad to ensure that your designs are both marketable and on-brand. This is a wonderful role for someone who is interested in fashion and knowledgeable about how to turn great designs into a stunning collection.

Personal stylist

If you’re a shopaholic with a design major under your (wonderfully chic) belt, an entry-level job as a personal stylist could be a dream come true. As a stylist, you’ll assist clients in finding exactly what they’re looking for and what fits with their personal style. This position is usually found in-house at a clothing boutique or department store and will connect with you clients from every walk of life, including business professionals for Fortune 500 companies and celebrities. This is a great position for someone interested in working directly with clients and who enjoys helping people look their best.

Teacher

Majoring in design can also prepare you for an entry-level teaching position such as a high school design or art teacher. You can even run design courses and workshops at a community college or at a private institution. This is a great opportunity for someone who is interested in sharing their knowledge with others and passionate about helping students learn all about the various elements of design.

A design major offers you a great chance to develop a broad range of skills that will make you marketable in design-related fields and beyond. In order to determine what position is best for you, take some time to assess your interests and then consider taking on an internship to find a career path that’s just right for you.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Types of Internships for Design Majors and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 6 Things to Do in Your First Week at a New Job.

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An architecture major is a great opportunity to develop both technical skills and creative ones. And because of the broad range of skills involved in this major, students studying architecture can find career opportunities in many industries including interior design, urban planning and construction management.

Here are some of the many fields where you can use your architecture degree:

Architecture

The most obvious career option for architecture majors is also the most popular one. By working as an architect, you’ll be designing buildings for a range of clients including large corporations. The key to finding a specific type of architecture that fits your personality is to ask yourself what kind of buildings you’d like to design. Whether the answer is giant skyscrapers or single-family homes, identifying the types of structures (and clients) you’d like to work with will help you find a role at an architecture firm that fits your style.

Interior Design

Another popular field for architecture majors is interior design. This involves coming up with designs that maximize the efficiency and style of interior spaces. A designer breathes beauty and life into a space, while also making sure the designs are safe and functional. Just like with architecture, working in interior design is all about find out what types of spaces are most appealing to you and focusing your energies there.

Construction

Whether working to build a room, a patio or a cute little cafe, architecture majors can start a career in construction management where they will be involved in coordinating building processes. This can include everything from preparing contracts to tracking the progress of craftsmen to ensuring that the right materials are available for each project. This is a great role for someone who is interested in the management aspect of construction.

Urban planning

An architecture major can also specialize in urban planning, where you make the best use of community land by coordinating, developing, analyzing and reviewing resources. As an urban planner, you’ll work alongside public officials and community members to help an area adapt to evolving problems, goals and economies. It involves not just systematic planning, but also creativity, two key factors that emerge from an education as an architect.

Business

The general skill set you’ll acquire as an architecture major transfers well into many fields of business. These industries require just as much of planning, conceptualization, communication and attention-to-detail as jobs in architecture and design. As a result, architecture majors can sometimes find themselves in the roles of project managers or directors, working to build companies rather than the buildings that house them.

Education

Your degree in architecture can also be put to use in education, whether this is through teaching high school math or conducting a seminar on the basics of interior design at a community college or private institution. Your architecture major can also put you on the road to earning an advanced degree, making you eligible for a teaching career in a university setting.

A major in architecture puts you in the running for some incredibly satisfying career opportunities. The best way to find out which one is right for you is to pick a field that interests you and then find an internship that will give you the hands-on experience you need to make your decision.

Next, learn more about this college major such as 6 Things to Do in Your First Week at a New Job and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Why Do You Want to Work Here?

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If you’re majoring in architecture and want to know what it’s like to work as an architect on a day-to-day basis, there’s no better way of finding out than by doing an architecture internship. In fact, this field has a lot of great internships to choose from, each of which will offer you significant insights into what it’s like to work in the field.

Some of the best internships for architecture majors include:

Architectural model making intern

From scaling drawings to assisting with prototypes, an architectural model-making intern assists in the making of architectural models. In addition to being creative and requiring attention to detail, this role will give a hands-on understanding of how modeling works and why it’s such a crucial part of architecture.

Property development intern

A property development intern gains experience in the field by researching development sites, visiting prospective ones and interviewing potential clients in order to assist in the writing of business plans. Because this role is so cross-functional, you’ll learn how to work with architects and contractors, while managing development projects.

Design intern

A design internship is one of the most diverse internships you can take on since, depending on the design firm you choose, this can be focused on including interior, landscape or stage and set design. While the responsibilities vary depending on the type of design internship, they may include assisting with client presentations, participating in design teams, or even developing and visualizing concepts.

3-D rendering and interior design intern

If you’re interested in broadening your knowledge of interior design, a 3D rendering & interior design internship gives you the experience you need to make it in this profession. During your internship, you’ll participate in client presentations, update resources and communicate with vendors, or even in create quality 3D-visualizations.

Transportation intern

As a transportation intern, you’ll learn more about what keeps your city or nation going. By becoming a transportation intern, you’ll be taking on projects that teach you how to apply new technical tools, analyze data and make presentations. Best of all, you’ll be getting some deep insights into how transportations systems work and applying skills from your major to help make those systems even more effective.

Architectural design intern

An architectural design internship familiarizes you with the a-day-in-the-life of an architectural firm. You’ll get an around-the-clock view of the office, with your duties ranging from assisting higher-ups in aspects of architectural design to making client presentations and working with a construction team. You may also assist with general logistics and research out-of-state rules pertaining to design and construction.

Urban planning intern

An interest in the optimal use of land and community welfare translates well into an urban planning internship. As an urban planning intern, you may work for a public department or private firm, where your responsibilities will range from assisting in field investigations/ surveys to reviewing site plans.

By taking on an internship related to your architecture major, you’ll be able to figure out what career path you want to focus on after graduation. And with so many great options, from design to urban planning, you’ll be sure to find something that works for you.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Career Opportunities for Architecture Majors and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as What is a Chronological Resume?

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Graduating with an architecture degree is an incredible accomplishment and one that opens doors to a lot of fantastic opportunities in the world of architecture and beyond. If you’ve already had a paid or unpaid internship in the field, then you have some idea of what to expect once you enter the workforce as a full-time employee. Even if you don’t, there are many great job opportunities that you should consider as you embark on your career path.

Here are some of the best entry-level jobs for architecture majors.

Assistant urban designer

If you’re interested in urban planning, working as an assistant urban designer is the perfect way to get started. There are openings at both public and private companies, and you will gain exposure to a range of responsibilities including surveying land, expanding or renovating a facility to meet present-day needs or even developing a transportation network. You will also likely be making presentations to community leaders and the public to raise awareness about plans for an upcoming project.

Assistant city planner

As an assistant city planner, you’ll be contributing to the process of determining the best use of the city’s land and resources. From gathering community input to preparing reports, drafting legislations, constructing new public housing and conserving the environment, there’s a lot you can learn in this position. And as you move through your career, you may go on to specialize in environmental or urban design, transportation planning or in other facets of city planning.

Junior architectural designer

This entry-level position offers a great start for aspiring architects. Your responsibilities will include ensuring the feasibility of building designs by using computer aided drafting, and working on different aspects of design with the principal architect and design team.

Project architect

As a project architect, you’ll make sure the project is completed on time and to the satisfaction of the client. You’ll also coordinate with your team, communicate with clients, work with designs and come up with an estimate of the budget.

Residential architect

If you’re employed as a residential architect, you’ll specialize in designing and building residential properties. Because of the differences between commercial and residential architecture, you may have more flexibility with your projects and could be self-employed, work for an architectural or construction company or be a real estate developer.

Graphic designer

The skills you’ve gained from your architecture major can be used in graphic design, helping an advertiser, public relations firm or small business communicate their message to the public.

Because of the varied skills gained during your major, graduating with a degree in architecture will allow you to apply your planning, problem-solving and design skills in a range of environments, giving you the opportunity to explore several opportunities and find the best fit for you.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Write a Resume That Stands Out and find answers to common interview questions such as Would You Describe Yourself as a Leader or a Follower?

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One of the best things about being a business major is that makes you a competitive candidate in almost any professional field. But with some many fields to choose from, how do you decide what career path to take? An internship is a great way to figure this out, while also gaining significant hands-on experience.

Here are some of the most common internships for business majors:

Product marketing internship

If you’re interested in marketing and want to learn more about this field, a product marketing internship can offer you the chance to learn a lot about the field while also picking up some new skills. During this internship you’ll be learning the basics of marketing by gathering data on market trends, analyzing and interpreting product feedback and studying the marketing strategies of competitors. This is a great chance to learn how to market a product and to understand the challenges of selling a product in a competitive marketplace.

Sales and marketing internship

A sales and marketing internship is usually a role that you’ll encounter at smaller companies and startups where these roles are sometimes combined. This type of internship gives you experience with marketing but also focuses on selling a product directly to a consumer. From observing sales calls made by managers to preparing presentations for clients and assisting with new and ongoing campaigns, this internship will give you with insights on the ups and downs of a career in sales and marketing.

Business management internship

From project management to analysis of sales, there’s a lot to learn in a business management internship. Among other things, you’ll assist with developing tools, conducting analyses and discussing business strategy with the team. But your role doesn’t end there. In fact, because this type of internship relates to the broader needs of a business in general, you’ll be getting an overview of what’s involved in running a business and getting a real hands-on field for everything from finance to operations.

Business consulting internship

Whether as part of a marketing, human resources, management or accounting team, business consulting interns assist business consultants in gathering data or materials for analysis and recommendations. As a business consulting intern, you’ll be sharpening your problem-solving skills and knowledge of business models, while also making an impact to the organization.

Management consulting internship

Whether you’re a management consulting intern for a consulting firm or for a financial services organization, during this internship you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to research, compile and present information. You’ll also assist in implementing changes to the project or team structure. This is a great internship for someone who is interested in going into management consulting after graduation.

Business development internship

As a business development intern, you’ll assist in market research and partnership development. You’ll also help to build business relationships with clients and partners and contribute to the overall growth of the organization. During this internship, you’ll learn about all the factors involved in building a successful business and get a feeling for how to run a business of your own.

Business majors are among the most sought-after candidates in any professional field. But with so many options to choose from, picking a career might seem a bit overwhelming. By taking on one or more of these internships during your time in college, you’ll be able to pick up some great skills and find a career path that’s just right for you.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Ultimate Guide to Dealing with Multiple Internship Offers and find answers to common interview questions such as How to Answer: What Type of Environment Do You Prefer?.

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Being a communications major means learning all about the best ways to communicate effectively and help brands get their message across. And because these skills can be applied to multiple industries, communications majors are in high demand in almost every industry. If you’ve already learned about the most popular types of internships for communications majors, then you might be wondering what comes next. Are there just as many opportunities after graduation? The answer is yes.

Here are some of the best entry-level jobs for communications majors:

Marketing coordinator

As a marketing coordinator, you’ll develop marketing materials and assist with both internal and external communications. You’ll also help coordinate timelines and goals for the executive team and assist with their implementation. This is a job that requires a sound knowledge of marketing models, and even better communication and leadership skills.

Client services representative

A client services representative acts as an intermediary for the company and its clients, assisting the client with transactions, setting up meetings and ensuring customer satisfaction. In this position, you’ll be communicating with the client on behalf of the company, relaying important messages and ensuring a smooth working relationship.

Public relations assistant

As a public relations assistant, you’ll coordinate and review press releases, and help organize publicity events, campaigns and presentations geared towards maintaining a positive image for a company or brand. You might work on multiple projects, or in multiple capacities, often in a fast-paced environment that keeps you on your toes.

Editorial assistant

As an editorial assistant, you’ll coordinate editorial timelines ensuring that workflow between writers and editors is smooth and efficient. As part of your tasks, you’ll be communicating with writers to provide their assignments and following up to ensure that they submit on time. In smaller companies, you might also take on writing tasks, utilizing both your writing and administrative abilities.

Associate brand manager

As an associate brand manager, you’ll conduct initial market research and position the product you’re promoting in relation to similar products on the market. You’ll also develop marketing strategies aimed to increase the brand’s reach to its target audience. This position requires a solid understanding of the brand you’re promoting and its value in the marketplace.

Social media coordinator

As a social media coordinator, you’ll do more than just post to Facebook and Instagram. You’ll also interact with the brand’s online community, analyze the reach of different kinds of media and optimize social media campaigns for individual platforms. As the digital voice of the brand, you’ll be helping social media managers engage the brand’s audience effectively and learning how to capitalize on media trends along the way.

Irrespective of the field they choose to work in, communications majors play an important role in maintaining relationships between businesses and consumers, communicating with those audiences and presenting information. They get the message out there, resolve problems and analyze feedback. With all of those skills at their fingertips, it’s no wonder that communications majors are so sought after in workforce.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Communications Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Tell Me About an Accomplishment That You’re Most Proud Of.

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If you’re a computer science major who is interested in pursuing a tech-based career, you might be wondering about the best options for entry-level jobs. Depending on your interests and familiarity with the various industry verticals, there are many options to choose from and each one involves a combination of challenging and exciting projects.

Here are the various roles you can pursue to kickstart your career.

Front-End Engineer

Front-End engineers make the interfaces we all love and use daily. If you like to see immediate, “tangible” results from your code and have a flair for design, then being a front-end engineer may be the role for you. As a front-end engineer, you’ll typically be working on the very front of the page. In a nutshell, you’ll be taking mockups given to you by the designer and turning them into web pages; implementing designs, prototyping and writing code that translates directly into what users see on the screen. The code you’ll be writing for this job is almost exclusively HTML/CSS and JavaScript, and it requires a strong ability to write cleanly in order to ensure long-term maintainability and future fast iterating. Deep knowledge of CSS and other front-end frameworks such as jQuery are a must.

Back-End Engineer

If you enjoy learning how to optimize read times on large data sets, crafting large data structures like an architect would a building, or making sure that your app has the best search function around, you may have a calling in back-end development. Back-end engineers are most concerned with what goes on behind the scenes — the business logic, data storage and retrieval, and key features that happen on the server. Knowing your SQL commands and relationships, familiarity with appropriate back-end languages such as Java, C++, Ruby, Python or JavaScript, knowledge of systems architecture and understanding of the hurdles of building applications at scale are helpful for this role.

Full-Stack Engineer

Being a full-stack engineer involves working with a combination of both front-end and back-end technologies, and it’s the perfect role for someone who likes building complete products or features. In addition to being able to develop back-end processes to connect servers and databases, you’ll also be working on the user-facing application to ensure that the product delivers seamless experience from end to end. However, it’s important to note that given the scope of this position, many full-stack engineers are “jacks of all trades but masters of none,” so it’s worth considering whether you want to be an expert in a particular discipline or whether you’re more comfortable when you’re constantly learning new things.

Mobile Engineer

Due to the rising use of apps, mobile engineers are in great demand right now. And since pretty much everyone uses either an iPhone or Android device these days, being familiar with their respective development platforms is a great way to secure your spot for this role.
The best way to show that you have what it takes is by being able to show off some apps that you’ve built on your own. If you already know Java, Android may be the best place for you to start, but if you prefer the iOS ecosystem, you’ll need to start learning Swift and XCode.

DevOps Engineer

The role of a DevOps engineer often differs from company to company, but at its core, DevOps engineers are responsible for the system infrastructure and “keeping the lights on.” If you’re fascinated by networking, intrigued by how the various tools and languages your team uses work and love setting up new servers, DevOps may be for you. The DevOps movement expands on the traditional responsibilities of system administrators to bring as much automation to the job as possible, so DevOps engineers are actually a hybrid of programmers and sysadmins.

Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer

Building scalable software requires that many levels of quality be considered. The first component is that the software must work, but it also must be written according to best practices and in a fashion that will not break other components of the program being developed. As a QA Engineer, you’ll be writing tests and testing suites while also running tests. Familiarity with software best practices and writing comprehensive tests that cover all edge cases will help you land your first QA job.

Product Manager

An increasingly popular role for computer science majors, being a product manager involves identifying opportunities for new products and working with an engineering team to design and execute them. As a product manager, you’ll be responsible for creating a roadmap of the product as well as market testing the product and launching it. This is a great role for someone who is interested in working on the strategy side of product development and someone who is passionate about the user experience.

Being a computer science major opens up a lot of exciting doors and offers you the opportunity to continue building your skill set as a programmer and beyond. The best way to figure out which opportunity is best for you is by pursuing an internship and figuring out which career path most closely aligns with your interests.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What Is a Computer Science Major and Is It Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 5 Technology Trends You Need to Know to Work in Any Industry.

* This article was written in partnership with the team at Outco.

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If you love figuring out what makes people tick and flexing your creative and analytical skills at the same time, then majoring in advertising could be perfect for you. At its simplest, advertising is about figuring out how to sell products and services to a specific demographic. You need to know who your audience is, their likes and dislikes and what will stand out to them above the plethora of other ads out there. Because of this, advertising requires an interesting mix of creative and quantitative skills.

Here’s are some things to keep in mind if you’re considering an advertising major.

What is an advertising major?

An advertising major blends creative fields like art and design with more quantitative subject areas like psychology. Your course work has both; you’ll take classes like advertising copywriting, graphic design, consumer behavior, advertising sales and advertising research.

Is it right for me?

If you’re still not sure if advertising is the way to go, here are some key questions to ask.

• Do I like figuring people out and understanding what makes them tick?
• Am I interested in sales? Do I like figuring out the best way to pitch and sell a product to consumers of any kind?
• Do I like communicating and working with others? Do I consider my interpersonal skills to be a strong suit?
• Am I able to take criticism and feedback from peers, professors and professionals well?
• Do I look forward to interning during college and gaining valuable work experience in the field?
• Am I able to think creatively as well as quantitatively, focusing on both creative campaign ideas and metrics?
• Am I just as interested in the ads in magazines, on TV, and on Snapchat as the content itself?

Is an advertising major different from a marketing major?

You might also be wondering how an advertising major differs from a marketing major. While both fall under most schools’ communications departments, they are typically treated as entirely different majors.

What’s the biggest difference? Marketing is about every part of the process of creating and selling a product, from how the product is designed to how it’s packaged, sold and improved for further promotion. Advertising, in contrast, focuses mainly on promotion.

What can I do with an advertising degree?

Advertising majors can go into any number of fields within marketing and communications, including copywriting and product management. They can also be:

• advertising account executives
• web designers
• campaign managers
• media planners
• sales representatives

What do people who majored in advertising earn?

Advertising majors typically start off in the $35,000-$45,000 range after graduating from college, but people working in the field of advertising can make well over $160,000 once they’re in managerial and executive positions.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Architecture and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Become a Confident Public Speaker.

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Thinking of majoring in religion? The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to know everything about every religion (or even be religion, for that matter) to succeed in the major. Instead, here are four key skills that are must-haves if you want to thrive as a religion major.

Critical thinking skills

Religion majors need to be able to think about a broad swath of topics and how they affected and are affected by religion. In the area of religion, there is never a simple or straightforward problem or answer, and as a major, you must be willing to think about these different issues deeply.

Strong reading and writing skills

Religion majors spend a large amount of their time reading texts (both religious and nonreligious), and often those texts are either translated from another language and/or are difficult to read. The strongest religion majors are those who have a system for reading and interpreting those texts and being able to take cohesive, articulate notes on what they’ve read.

Additionally, evaluation in the religion major is often done through writing, so you must be able to communicate your thoughts clearly and concisely through various papers, reading responses and other assignments.

Communication and public speaking skills

In addition to your written work, you’ll also be in many smaller classes that require you to speak up more and present your ideas to peers and professors alike. The best religion majors are those who are thoughtful before they decide to speak but are also confident in their ideas and arguments when they’re presenting them.

Open-mindedness

If you’re a religion major, you will definitely run into moments where you don’t believe with a text, an argument or your peers. However, the major requires people who are open to hearing the thoughts and ideas of others, even if they aren’t in line with their own notions. By being open-minded, you’ll not only learn a lot more, but you’ll be a much stronger religion major in the long run.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Religion Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Would You Describe Yourself as a Leader or a Follower?

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From studying ancient texts to understanding how religion shapes societies, being a religion major is a great opportunity to learn about the impact of various belief systems on our day-to-day lives. But when it comes to deciding on a career, what are the best ways for religion majors to apply their skills in the real world? For example, what career paths can you embark on with a religion major and where are you likely to be most successful?

Here are some of the most common career paths for religion majors.

Religion

Since many religion majors are passionate about one or more religious beliefs, a career as a religious functionary is a great way to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical way. By taking on a role as a minister, rabbi or another type of religious leader, you’ll able to guide followers in your chosen religion while also learning more about that religion and its impact on society.

Education

Another common career path for religion majors is education. From teaching elementary school students to high school students, you’ll be able to translate your knowledge of history and global studies into a teaching career that can span a variety of subjects and grade levels. You can also choose to get an advanced degree in order to teach at the college level.

Research

For religion majors who are interested in continuing along an academic path, a research-focused career can be another satisfying option. This includes research conducted for nonprofits and government agencies as well as academic research related to an advanced degree.

Law

With their strong critical thinking and communication skills, religion majors also make wonderful lawyers, paralegals and legislative aides. In these roles, you’ll be working with clients on their respective legal cases or even advocating for policy change in a number of legislative areas.

Social Work

Another field where religion majors thrive is social work. Focused on helping clients address specific issues including drug addiction and mental health concerns, social work is a wonderful opportunity to connect with others and to make an impact in the life of those who are working to overcome personal challenges.

With its focus on big-picture issues and human relationships, a religion major is a great way to build a strong skill set while gaining exposure to a broad range of ideas. These skills and knowledge can be applied to various careers including education, research and law. If you’re wondering what type of career is best for you, consider taking an internship in a field that interests you. This will help you develop your skill set while getting some exposure to a field you’re passionate about.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Religion Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look for in an Internship.

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Advertising may seem like it’s all about creating amazing ads, but there’s a lot more than goes into it than that. What sorts of skills will you need if you want to succeed in your college’s advertising major? Here are the top six skills you need to have when embarking on this major.

Communication skills

Above all, advertising is about being able to communicate thoughts, feelings and emotions to consumers through various mediums, whether that be a television commercial, a print ad in a magazine or a website banner ad.

In addition, you’ll also have to be able to present your thoughts and findings to peers, professors and potentially even clients while in college, so having a strong knack for pitching ideas and explaining your thought process to others is crucial to your success as an advertising major.

Creativity

Do you have a knack for coming up with wacky ideas and finding outside-of-the-box ways to execute them? Advertising may be the perfect major for you. In your classes, you’ll be able to put your best ideas to the test, figuring out ways to take your concepts from brainstorm to full product.

If coming up with ideas on the spot and tweaking them accordingly is something that thrills you, studying advertising in college is a great option.

Ability to take criticism

Because advertising is a mix of opinions and data, you’ll have to be able to take feedback from peers and professors alike when your idea needs to be tweaked or scrapped entirely. Advertising majors need to be able to run with any idea and also not get too fixated on a particular plan, as things change all the time.

Analytical/quantitative skills

Think advertising is all about making interesting or funny graphics? Think again! Advertising majors not only learn the ins and outs of psychology and design, but they also need to be able to understand how to analyze and interpret data.

For example, what does it mean if consumers are responding to a particular ad? How can that ad be made more effective? What does it mean if it isn’t effective? These are all key questions that need to be answered.

Knowledge of media trends

Since advertising relies heavily on the ability to capitalize on trends, it’s important for advertising majors to be on top of things that are trending in the industry and in the news. In addition to being interested in the types of ad campaigns and news stories that are most engaging, advertising majors also need to have an understanding of why certain things work when others don’t.

Problem-solving skills

Advertising is all about solving two majors problems: First, what are you to convey to your audience, and how does that support or conflict with your audience’s desires? Second, how can you pivot your ideas depending on how your particular campaign is going?

Advertising majors spend a lot of time discussing and working on these two problems across the board, so if you love tackling challenge after challenge, it’s a great major for you to consider.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is an Advertising Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Tell Me About Yourself.

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Despite the fact that advertising falls under the umbrella of marketing, it’s actually an incredibly flexible major that can open up all sorts of career opportunities in a variety of fields. Even better? They don’t all necessarily have to have a marketing focus.

Here are some of the many fields where you can use your advertising degree:

Marketing

Since advertising is part of marketing, most advertising majors will end up in marketing-related roles once they get out into the workforce. Advertising majors can put their credentials to good use as account executives or media planners for a marketing agency, or they can work in more creative roles as art directors, copywriters or event planners. In fact, because of the substantial overlap between these two fields, advertising majors are able to fill almost all of the same roles as marketing majors.

Politics

Many advertising majors have found success working for political campaigns and other initiatives surrounding candidates, causes and policies. Knowing how to market a person or cause to a particular demographic is vital in the world of politics, and your expertise will be wildly important if you choose to enter this field.

Sales

Many of the skills you learn as an advertising major (figuring out what your audience wants and then designing and presenting a pitch that appeals to them through various platforms) can make you a dynamite member of any sales team. Whether you’re working as a sales representative, a sales operations team member or another role within this field, your advertising background will come in handy.

Public Relations

Public relations is in the same wheelhouse as advertising and marketing, so it’s a natural fit for advertising majors who want to get into the world of publicity. Career options in this field include becoming a PR strategist or account executive, developing and executing strategies to boost a brand’s public presence. Depending on the type of role you choose, you could be working either at an agency or in-house at a particular company.

Design

If your advertising studies had a design component, you could find a successful career as a graphic designer or web designer. Your advertising background will also enable you to not only create beautiful designs but also understand the data and psychology behind why your work will resonate with a particular audience.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is an Advertising Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as 7 Phone Interview Tips That Will Land You a Second Interview.

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Do you love the sciences but aren’t sure what goes into being an amazing natural sciences major? Here are the top three skills you need to have to thrive in the major and feel confident heading into the workforce after graduation.

Strong math and science skills

It sounds obvious, but it bears discussion: Natural sciences majors need to have incredibly robust math and science skills to succeed in this major. Your course of study will depend on which science or sciences you focus on, but regardless of your concentration you’ll be spending a lot of time in science and math classes, going to help sessions and working in a lab.

Lab skills

Having strong math and science skills doesn’t immediately translate into stellar lab skills. Lab technique is gained over time and requires the ability to be meticulous and detail-oriented. Additionally, “lab technique” isn’t just how you perform in a physical laboratory; it covers field work, sample and data collection and everything else that has to do with actual experimentation. The bottom line? You’ll need to be willing to take your time and make sure your results are accurate no matter what you’re studying.

Project management skills

Typically students who major in natural sciences are working on at least one bigger project at any given time, and it’s not enough just to know the science behind the experiments; it’s just as important to know how to run an efficient, organized and accurate set of experiments. Thus, natural sciences majors need to know how to manage their time and also any lab work and writeups they’re doing. For example, if you’re working on a major research project that includes other peers, how do you organize yourselves? How will you write your report? How will you schedule and prioritize experiments?

Having strong project management and research skills is one of the key ways to ensure that you’ll be able to handle all of the requirements of this major from completing lab work to keeping group projects organized.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Philosophy and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Make Your Resume Stand Out.

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Being an education major gives you the skills you need to teach both children and adults. It’s a great career for those who are interested in the educational development of others and who are driven by helping their students succeed. If you’re currently working towards completing your major in education, taking on an internship will give you some wonderful insights into the career paths available to you after graduation.

Here are some of the most common internships for education majors:

Department of Education internship

Government internships offer a lot of great benefits, especially if you’re interested in educational policy and administration. For instance, Department of Education internships include an internship on educational policy with the potential to take on projects related to policy analysis, research and community outreach. This is a great internship for someone interested in policy administration who wants to make an impact at a national level.

Educational nonprofit internship

An internship at a nonprofit is a great opportunity for learning and growth, allowing you to take on roles within and outside your area of expertise. From grant writing to planning presentations and assisting with fundraising events, you stand to gain a ton of experience while also building your skill set. Education-related nonprofits, from youth homes to online education platforms, allow you to apply what you’ve learned in school while giving you the satisfaction of working towards a great cause. This is a wonderful internship for someone who is considering going into the nonprofit sector.

Elementary school or high school internship

Internships in the administrative department of an elementary school or high school will give you exposure to what a career in administration looks like. Your responsibilities may range from basic clerical tasks such as gathering and compiling data to coordinating deadlines for projects and recommending solutions for identified problems. In addition, you may also get the opportunity to attend professional meetings and sit in on classes in your chosen subject area.

Ed-tech internship

If you’re passionate about revolutionizing education with technology and media, an internship at an ed-tech company could be just right for you. These internship openings can be found at ed-tech companies focusing on everything from online learning courses to learning-based apps. Your responsibilities may include content production or marketing depending on the specific type of internship you apply for. You may also contribute to brainstorming sessions and monitor and analyze user engagement to optimize the learning process. An internship in the ed-tech field is great for anyone interested in a career not solely focused on teaching or administration.

College campus internship

Colleges offer on-campus internships in areas such as admissions, alumni relations, student life or even career development. Depending on which office you end up interning with, your responsibilities may vary from more administrative tasks to more research-based ones. Some types of internships you may find on campuses include being a marketing intern, a graduate programs intern or a summer research intern. Whether you’d like to pursue teaching, administration or research, internships across college campuses present a lot of opportunity for learning about higher education.

By taking on one or more internships during your time in college, you’ll gain valuable exposure within the field of education and beyond. This is a wonderful way to build your skills and increase your professional experience, while also helping you to carve out a career path that’s right for you.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is an Education Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Write a Resume That Stands Out.

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If the idea of working on problem sets, finding solutions and solving real-world problems appeals to you, becoming a math major might be right up your alley. But what are the key skills you’ll need to rock the math major and feel confident in your career prospects?

Here are four skills that all of the most successful math majors possess.

Strong quantitative skills

Fact: You can be a math major unless your number-crunching, quantitative and logic skills are extremely strong. Majoring in math is not for those who did “okay” in math classes in high school; you need to be confident in your abilities to solve problems.

Organizational skills

Math majors take a lot of notes in classes, so you’re going to have to think of an efficient system for note-taking on many different subjects and also organizing the notes you take. You’d be surprised how easy it is to get lost if you can’t keep track of the notes you’ve written or the problem sets you’ve finished; successful math majors are able to keep all of their documents straight.

Patience

It may seem like a strange skill for a math major, but think about it: You’re spending hours upon hours every day working on difficult problem sets, and it’s easy to get frustrated and give up.

However, math majors need to be able to stay calm and ask for help when they need it, and the most successful people in this major are those who are able to remain calm when a problem doesn’t make sense, try out different strategies to find a solution and turn to others if the answer isn’t obvious.

Problem-solving skills

Right up there with patience is the importance of having a problem-solving mind, one that desires to find the solution to any problem and will work tirelessly to find it.

The great thing about majoring in math is that your calculations and equations can solve big real-world problems, but you have to be curious, ready and willing to take on new challenges, many of which won’t have obvious solutions right off the bat.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Finance and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look for in a Company

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From learning about ancient philosophies to studying various types of texts, being a philosophy major gives you an inside look into some of the issues societies have been grappling with since the beginning of time. But if you’re a philosophy major, you may be wondering about the best way to apply your knowledge and your skills in the real world. For example, what career paths can you embark on with a philosophy major and how can you put your skills to use in those roles?

Here are some of the most common career paths for philosophy majors.

Law

Since philosophy majors spend so much time focusing on big-picture questions and grappling with ethics and ideas, a career in the legal field can be a wonderful fit for them. From working to enact legislative change to advocating on behalf of clients, philosophy majors make wonderful lawyers, paralegals and legislative aides.

Education

Another great career path for philosophy majors is education. With their strong communication skills and knowledge of history and culture, philosophy majors can excel as teachers at both the secondary (middle school and high school) and postsecondary levels (college and beyond).

Research

For those philosophy majors who thrive in a research-focused environment, a career in the research field can also be a great fit. From pursuing a doctorate in philosophy to conducting research projects for a government organization or nonprofit, philosophy majors can excel in a research-oriented profession.

Business

Although philosophy may seem far removed from the world of business, there are a lot of overlaps between the skills philosophy majors use in their classes and those that apply to a business setting. These include critical-thinking skills which are great for identifying operational problems and communication skills which are crucial for running a business.

Consulting

Like the more general field of business, consulting is a natural fit for philosophy majors since it relies heavily on the ability to assess business challenges and to offer creative solutions. Best of all, consulting allows philosophy majors the opportunity to apply their understanding of big-picture issues in a practical and effective way.

One of the best things about being a philosophy major is that it can help you build a broad range of skills while also giving you insights into how societies function and what they need in order to thrive. These are lessons that can easily be applied to fields like business, consulting and education. The best way to find out which type of career is right for you is to take on an internship in a field that interests you. This will give you the hands-on experience you need to find the perfect job.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Philosophy Major and is it Right for Me? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as When to Start Applying for a Summer Internship.

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With its strong focus on political science and economics, a global studies major can help you develop a broad range of research and critical thinking skills. It can also open up the doors to many exciting career opportunities in fields such as politics and the nonprofit sector. To find out which of these opportunities matches your skills and interests, we recommend taking on an internship.

Here are some of the most common internships for global studies majors:

Political intern (with the State Department or with a congressman)

Political internships with the Department of State or with congressmen and women are extremely prestigious and competitive. From conducting research on elections and specific candidates to drafting outreach materials and providing administrative support, there are plenty of opportunities to develop your skills while learning a lot about the field of politics. You’ll get an insider’s view of various campaigns and government activities, and have the opportunity to network with others in the field.

NGO/Nonprofit intern

While interning at a nonprofit, you’ll be working to support a cause or community. This role will give you hands-on experience working in a cross-functional capacity as well as the flexibility to gain expertise in different roles. From doing research to helping with logistics, marketing and operations, an internship at an NGO or nonprofit will give you insights into all of the trends and issues you’ve studied in your global studies classes.

Journalism intern

If you plan on branching out into digital or broadcast journalism, an internship for a newspaper or news channel is the way to go. As a journalism intern, you’ll get to research stories, observe the editing process, manage social media accounts and attend media-related events. You’ll also get to network, pitch ideas and possibly write your own articles on some of the important national and global issues you’re passionate about.

Public relations intern

Since public relations is a vital component of fields such as politics, government and entertainment, global studies majors wishing to specialize in PR can get much-needed experience through an internship. During this internship, you’ll promote the brand behind a product or individual. You’ll also get a feel for what the PR work culture is like, while learning how to develop and manage social media and publicity campaigns.

Public policy intern

From assisting with the collection of legislative research to researching and analyzing various areas of public policy or even attending conferences as a representative of the organization, a public policy internship gives students a solid understanding of how policy is enacted. Whether your internship focuses on educational reform, economic development or a humanitarian division or organization, you’ll get wonderful exposure into the procedures that play a major role in facilitating change.

Business internship (sales, marketing, operations) for a global company

Another common internship for global studies majors is a business internship with a global company. By giving you exposure to different areas of the business—like marketing, sales and operations—this type of internship will help you learn more about patterns and trends in the global market while also giving you a chance to apply what you’ve learned during your time in college.

More than anything, an internship gives you much-needed insight into the aspects of your major that you are most interested in. This is especially essential for global studies majors, given the fact that the major opens up so many possible doors.

Next, learn more about this college major such as What is a Global Studies Major? and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look For In An Internship.

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Before you decide to officially become a literature major, it’s important to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into in terms of the skills you’ll need to succeed in the major. Here are the top 5 qualities you need to make sure you possess to ensure that you rock the literature major.

Reading skills

It goes without saying that you’ll be reading a lot as a literature major. However, being a “good” reader goes far beyond just getting through the pages and books you’re assigned in a timely manner.

The best readers are also star annotators and note-takers, and they know how best to categorize and remember the information they read for later.

Writing skills

Literature majors will spend lots of time crafting their thoughts on various works into essays and papers, so the most successful majors are those who have strong writing skills and also aren’t intimidated by writing prompts.

Critical thinking skills

Being a literature major means being able to think deeply about everything you read and dissect. You’ll need to be able to look at a work from all angles and consider what is the most important. Then, you’ll need to articulate those thoughts well.

Communication skills

Literature majors need to not only read and write well, but they need to be able to explain their thought processes and ideas effortlessly to professors and peers in the classroom. Additionally, the best literature majors aren’t intimidated by speaking in classes ranging from small seminars of under 15 students to lecture halls of over 100 people.

Time management skills

Because you’ll spend so much time reading, writing, and expressing your thoughts and ideas in class, the best literature majors have superior time management skills to keep track of it all. This means knowing when and where you work best on campus and being willing to spend some extra time in the library to make sure you understand the material (even on weekends).

Next, learn more about this college major such as Architecture and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Get the Job You Really Want.

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As you get closer to declaring your major, you may be faced with some tough choices. Would you rather major in creative writing or economics? More importantly, which major would set you up for greater success? As you consider your options you might also think about the best way to combine your interests into a double major.

Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re thinking of studying two subjects at once.

What is a double major?

A double major is a combined focus on two academic subjects. Although these subjects may be closely linked (such as economics and business), they can also be vastly different (such as biochemistry and French). In order to successfully complete a double major, you’ll typically need to take double the number of major-related classes, since you’ll typically need to fulfill up to 12 classes in each of your chosen subjects.

What are the benefits of a double major?

There are many benefits to doing a double major including increased exposure to new things, networking opportunities and skill building. In fact, studying two subjects at once is a great way to open up doors when it comes time to find a full-time job. Best of all, employers are likely to be impressed by your work ethic and to consider you a strong candidate.

What are some of the challenges of a double major?

Although there are many benefits to doing a double major, it’s also important to consider some of the challenges that come along with it. For example, with an increased workload every semester you’ll have less time for electives, internships and extracurriculars. Although this won’t necessarily negatively impact your college experience, it’s definitely something to keep in mind as you get ready to declare your major.

Choosing a major is one of the most important parts of your college career. When deciding whether to declare a double major, be sure weigh the advantages and disadvantages of a double major and make the decision that fits you best.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Computer Science and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Evaluate Job Fit in Your Interview.

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A minor is a specialization or concentration that may or may not complement your college major. For example, if you are majoring in Biology, you may choose to minor in a related field, such as Chemistry, or an unrelated field, such as Spanish. Minoring in a completely different field can help you gain knowledge or skills in a field distinct from your major. In a sense, a minor is like a “mini” major. Generally speaking, students who elect to do a minor have to take 4-6 classes in the chosen subject. This is about half of the amount required for a major, which typically requires between 8-12 classes.

A minor gives you an edge.

Pursuing a minor allows you to enhance your major studies and develop a side passion. It gives you an edge intellectually by introducing you to new ideas and, depending on what you choose, it can give you a professional edge, too. That extra line on your resume shows potential employers a few things. If your minor is related to your field, it can show potential employers that you have a depth of knowledge that sets you apart from other recent graduates in your intended industry. A minor unrelated to your field may show employers that you are curious and multi-faceted. Either way, a minor indicates that you are willing to pursue a rigorous workload and commit to finishing what you start.

Ask yourself if and why you want to minor.

Ask yourself exactly why you wish to minor in a subject. Is this a subject you love but couldn’t pursue as a major for whatever reason? Will this minor make you more competitive in your field? What benefits could this minor bring to your career in the short and long-term? For example, do you want to improve upon your foreign language skills to broaden your post-grad horizon? Or, do you want to learn how to code, run a small business, or obtain some other skillset you cannot learn from your major? Your minor can help you achieve your goals, but you must know what those goals are.

Do your research, talk to your faculty advisor, and take at least one sample class in your minor to help you make this important decision.

Assess the feasibility of taking on a minor.

You may have the interest to do a minor but not the time and energy. Before committing to a minor, meet with your advisor to go over the requirements. Minors often are best for students with broad majors in business or the liberal arts. They also work well for students on track for career paths in competitive fields. An engineering major, for instance, may have less time and reason to acquire a minor than an English major because their major demands might be stricter and their career path is less competitive due to the nation’s shortage of engineers.  Majors in the hard and practical sciences tend to be very structured with little room for choice or flexibility.

Pro tip: One effective way to pick up a minor is to “double dip.” A single class may be required by both your major and your minor. By taking that class, you fulfill a requirement in both programs without putting in extra time or effort. This tactic generally is most feasible for students who choose a minor similar to their major. A student majoring in French may be able to minor in, say, European Studies or Translation Studies, simply by taking an additional class or two beyond what is required for the major.

Another consideration is money. You must figure out if you can afford what may amount to an extra semester of work. Most minors require five or six classes, or about 15 to 18 credit hours, devoted to that area of study. If your major and minor course requirements do not overlap at all and you do not have AP, IB, or community college credits, you will have to be very wise about structuring your elective classes. Otherwise, you almost certainly will spend extra time in college.

Declaring your minor.

After you’ve taken a sample class or two and made your decision, you may think you’re ready to declare your minor. Make sure you know exactly how to do that. Every college or university has a different process for declaring a minor. You may have to meet with your advisor or the head of the program. You might even have to officially apply for the program, similar to the way you may have applied for your major in the first place. No matter what, you will almost certainly have to fill out paperwork to make your minor official—but this investment of your time, money, effort and brainpower can make a huge difference in your academic career and professional life.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Philosophy and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Stand Out With Business Cards.

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Whether you are just starting your freshman year of college or approaching the declaration deadline, your major is probably on your mind. At most four-year universities, you must select your major by the end of your sophomore year. If you’re torn between two different areas of study or you want to supplement one subject with a similar one, you may even be thinking about a double major.

If you’ve read “What is a Double Major?” you’ll already have a sense of what a double major is and know that it can be a great way of expanding your skill set and ensuring that you have access to lots of job prospects once you graduate. But it’s important to stop and think about the potential drawbacks as well, like the fact that majoring in two subjects may be too time-consuming to allow for things like internships.

Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding if a double major is for you.

Advantages of a Double Major

Learning as much as possible

If you’re interested in psychology but also fascinated by English literature, it may feel impossible to just pick one. If you want to make the most of your undergraduate career, studying two subjects at once is a great way to take full advantage of your time at school.

Getting an edge on the competition

Studying two subjects can not only help you see each one from a new perspective, it can also transform you into a more desirable candidate down the road, giving you an edge on the competition by providing you with more insight and experience than other candidates. When employers review your background, they are likely to be impressed by your strong work ethic.

Exposure to new things

Tackling more than one subject at once will give you exposure to different industries and opportunities, making it easier to decide what you want to do down the line. This is valuable both in terms of gaining hands-on experience in your chosen field, but also in terms of narrowing down your choices by eliminating industries that aren’t a good fit.

Networking

Studying two different subjects also means having additional networking opportunities. You are likely to develop more personal relationships with your professors (since students normally get close to those who teach classes for their major) and will be able to connect with students from both subjects. This means that your social and professional networks will be larger than those of your peers and your chances of finding an entry-level job after graduation will also be higher.

Disadvantages of a Double Major

Additional time spent studying

If you are considering a double major, prepare to factor in the additional time that will take to complete. Not only will you have to complete all your general education requirements, you will also need to take all the classes required for each of your majors. If you want to graduate on time, that may mean taking on an intense course load (with more tests and papers) and if not, you will potentially need an additional semester or two to fulfill all your requirements.

Missing out on extracurriculars

With all the extra time you spend studying, you might have less time to pursue other interests. When deciding whether to take on a double major, don’t forget to consider other aspects of your college life, like extracurriculars and internships, which can be negatively impacted by the demands of your rigorous program.

Increased cost of tuition

Depending on the school you attend and the situation you’re in, adding a second major can potentially also increase the cost of your tuition. If you stay on for another semester or more, you will need to pay additional tuition and other fees during that time. While graduating with a double major can look impressive on your resume and potentially score you a better paying gig, it can also be a financial burden.

Pro Tip: If you love the idea of studying two subjects but find the prospect of a double major overwhelming, consider doing a minor instead. This is a great way to get in-depth knowledge of a second subject without taking a full course load of classes. In fact, the number of required classes for a minor is often half the number required for a major.

Choosing a major is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make during your college career. While it can feel overwhelming at times, just remember: there is no set right or wrong answer. Make sure to weigh the benefits against the time and money involved and ask yourself why you want to do it. If the answer is that you want to take on a second major for career advantages, or you are just really passionate about that area of study, then go for it! Consider your own unique reasons for pursuing a double major and make the choice that suits you best.

Next, learn more about this college major such as Marketing and get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Start Your Entry-Level Job Search.

The post Advantages and Disadvantages to a Double Major in College appeared first on Career Advice & Interview Tips | WayUp Guide.