As you make your way through college, one very important question you might ask yourself is if a minor is worth undertaking. While not everyone graduates with a minor, it’s a great way to add some versatility to your resume and gain some knowledge that will help you build your career.

When you’re going about this decision, the first thing you have to consider is what your interests are.

You Gotta Love It

No matter what you do in college, whether it’s your studies, extracurriculars, social life, relationships, or otherwise, you have to love what you’re doing. Parents and societal pressures can oftentimes cloud these thoughts but at the end of the day, you should be making decisions for yourself.

So make the choice that truly feeds your soul. Maybe you’re a Finance major who has always wanted to explore theater. Do it. Don’t pursue a minor just because you think it has to align with your major or for some fabricated reason. Choose a minor because it fascinates you and satisfies your thirst for knowledge.

College is a time to explore curiosities and interests of all varieties. And although it may be hard at times, you have to follow your heart in order to fill your head.

Workload

The next thing you have to consider when deciding whether or not a minor is worth it is if you can handle the workload. While passion can fuel productivity, there is only so much you can bare during your college years.

Don’t feel rushed to choose a minor in your freshman year or even your sophomore or junior year. If you have to stick around for another year or two to finish up your courses, don’t feel like you’ve failed!

If you end up leaving school knowing you got what you wanted to out of it, who cares how long it takes you? Of course, it’s important to consider tuition costs but what’s more important is getting everything you need out of your time spent at university.

If you are able to weigh these two factors against each other, workload and passion, you should have an easier time deciding whether or not a minor is worth it.

Always feel free to use your school resources and consult your advisor. And as always, you can rely on the career tips and professional advice that we put out on our blog weekly!

The post Is Getting a Minor in College Worth It? appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

As a full-time college student who also works part-time, I can find it hard to schedule and organize my day. I have found it even harder to prioritize now that all my classes have gone online. After trying various methods of trying to organize my different tasks and responsibilities, I have found time blocking to be the most efficient form of time management.  

What is Time Blocking? 

Time blocking is a time management method where you “block off” your day. Each block is allocated to completing a certain task or group of tasks. Unlike a running to-do list where you mark off things as they are finished, time blocking allows you to dedicate a certain amount of time to work on each task.  

Fun fact: Elon Musk uses this method to help him run his two major companies! 

Why Time Blocking is Beneficial 

It is a simple way to add structure to your life. It also is an effective way for you to take control of your day. Time blocking can be especially helpful for those who: 

• Have long-term projects/assignments 
• Struggle with various interruptions throughout the day  
• Juggle many responsibilities or projects at once 
• Find yourself in reactive mode; responding to emails, messages, texts, etc. 

Blocking your Time 

Now it’s time for you to sit down with your favorite paper planner or electric planning app. I personally like the Day Designer planners, since there is a schedule on every page for each day. I also find it handy to have an electric planner, in case you’re on the go, Google Calendar is great since it syncs on all your devices.  

Prioritize your commitments  

Go through and add in any prior commitments, such as meetings, appointments, and hard deadlines. Next, go through and determine which tasks are higher on your list. Allocate them to your most productive time of day, whether that being morning or afternoon.  

Set your daily schedule

Now go through and block out the rest of your day. You can be as specific as adding your morning and night routine, or lenient to where you just add academic or work obligations.

Fill out the rest of the day

While filling out your schedule, be sure to add buffer time between your blocks. It can be hard to have a strict cut off time, so make sure you allow extra time in between blocks. Also factor in things such as travel time if you need to drive to an appointment. Once you are done, your schedule should look something like this: 

Insert to-do list within your time blocks 

Once you have blocked out your day, you can then go in and add a specific to-do list within the blocks. Todolist is a great tool that connects with your Google Calendar and lets you add individual to-do lists in each of your blocks! 

Revise as needed 

Obviously not everything goes as planned, so as things come up, revise your schedule. Also, at the end of the week, take some time and reflect on how your blocking for the week went. Did you find it productive? Did you allocate enough time for all tasks to be done? This is a draft that can constantly be adjusted to your needs.  

About the author: Makahla Stout is a junior at Virginia Tech where she is studying Fashion Merchandising and Design. 

In partnership with InternQueen. Check out internqueen.com for more tips & advice!

The post What Is Time Blocking and Why You Should Be Doing it? appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Setting new goals is an important way of tracking your progress. And when you’ve got a whole life and career ahead of you, making progress is an important thing.

However, that doesn’t mean new goals aren’t dangerous. Setting yourself up for failure with absurd, unattainable goals only leaves you feeling disappointed in yourself, even when you’ve made great strides.

At WayUp, our goal is for you to succeed without all the anxiety along the way. So here are 3 totally attainable professional, academic, and personal goals for 2019.

1. Improve (Or Maintain) Your Grades

“Improve” is the operative word here. You’re not going to suddenly jump up to a A student in French if you’ve always been a B-minus one. You might! But it’s important just to expect solid commitment and some forward progress from yourself.

GPA in college isn’t everything when it comes to finding a job. In fact, many great companies aren’t interested in your grades. However, improving your GPA can help you with some of the top companies that do filter out candidates with lower GPAs. However, not even top-tier companies expect you to have a 4.0, so don’t sweat it if you don’t.

Remember: Big changes comes by changing little things. Check out this guide of quick and easy tricks to improve your grades.

2. Get A Summer Internship (Or Your First Full-Time Job)

This goal can be pretty intimidating—and it’s likely already something on your radar. How could it not be?

But it doesn’t have to be stressful or seem unattainable. As internship and entry-level job experts, we can assure you: Getting an internship or an entry-level job doesn’t have to be hard.

Focus on improving your resume and sending more applications. Most importantly, don’t ever give up.

3. Regularly Schedule Time For Friends And Family

You won’t be fulfilled in life just by academic and professional success (although they certainly help). Make sure you stay in contact with the people who really matter: family and friends.

It might seem cold or calculating to “put time on your calendar” for the special people in your life. However, it can be very rewarding, even if you just say “see Emma every Thursday” or “call grandma every Sunday at 1 o’clock.”

Want to reconnect with an old friend, but not sure how? Check out this New York Times article on rekindling old friendships.

And Don’t Forget To Be Proud Of Yourself

More so than anything, your mental and physical health are extremely important. Be proud of yourself for what you can accomplish (and have already). And don’t forget to take plenty of opportunities to relax on your journey to greatness.

Want to get a head start on your internship search? Check out more career tips and search for jobs on WayUp.

The post 3 Professional, Personal, And Academic Goals For The New Semester appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Getting your grades up: a classic New Year’s resolution. It’s also an excellent way to improve your chances of getting your dream job, impressing your parents, and just feeling more confident in yourself.

The problem is that most of the traditional methods for doing so are—to put it delicately—super boring.

So, we’ve put together some of the best tips and tricks from certified college over-achievers around the WayUp office. They’re guaranteed to raise your grades without draining your entire social life.

1. “Schedule classes that you’ll actually go to.”

This answer might seem a little on the nose, but it can really trip people up. Not going to class leaves you in a terrible position. You’re not able to learn from the professor. You’re always playing catch-up. And you can never quite have the same confidence when you do decide to go in. Plus, at the end of the semester, when it comes time to grade grub and ask for leniency, you’ll be in a bad position if you haven’t seen the professor since the third class.

If you can’t avoid having a class at a time when you’ll be tempted to skip it (e.g. 8am on Monday or 4pm on Friday), then make sure you’re truly prepared to go.

2. “Learn while you’re in class—not later from a textbook or PowerPoint.”

Taking notes is essential, but learning the content of those notes in the moment is even more important. Make sure your note-taking method is one that lends itself to really paying attention while you’re in class. That way, if you don’t understand something, you can tackle it right then and there by asking a question.

Asking questions is also a way to show professors that you’re truly engaged in the material. Basically, stay off social media or Amazon, and really invest yourself in that moment.

This is so key because it saves so much of your time. If you learn it first, in class, then you won’t have to spend so much time studying before exams, or trying to decipher your homework assignments with a 400-page textbook.

3. “Keep a running deck of flashcards (or Quizlet terms).”

One of the most stressful parts of studying is the preparation. It’s hard enough to learn 300 terms before next week’s exam; it’s twice as hard to put all of those terms into a Quizlet form or a deck of flashcards while you’re trying to really learn.

If something comes up that you think is important or that your teacher specifically notes will be on the exam, add it to your flashcards or list. This can also be useful for powerful quotes and key info for essays.

Studying will take way less time, and you’ll be much quicker about it when it comes time for quizzes, assignments, and exams.

4. “Hold onto your homework. Those questions are always on the exams.”

This could not be more true. Even if your professors have a policy against reusing questions from homework on exams, they’ll still be in a similar format.

Homework is usually made by the teachers and professors, even if the questions aren’t. This means they’ve already made it clear they think this kind of question is important. Don’t waste this opportunity to get a look inside their mind.

Saving homework and using the questions as practice for the exam can really set you up for success—and save time you’d spend hunting down practice problems on the internet.

5. “If you’re going to study in a group,  make sure you have something to add (and vice versa).”

This is where all those saved homework, flashcards, and quality notes will really come in handy. Studying in a group shouldn’t mean messing around or hanging out. If you use your time effectively, then there will be plenty of time to chill afterward.

When you study in a group, make a Google doc and assign roles before your group meets. Make sure everyone knows what they’re bringing. If there’s work to be done, then divide it up. This will make sure everyone keeps their cool, masters at least one thing, and that no one is holding everyone back with super basic questions.

Inch by Inch…

The common thread between these tactics? Share the responsibilities. As the saying goes, “Inch by inch, life’s a cinch. Yard by yard, life is hard.”

In this case—if we’re maintaining the metaphor—these are inches compared to football fields worth of work. Build your flashcards over the course of a semester. Take quality notes. Learn while you’re in the classroom, and don’t forget to actually show up.

Surprisingly, you’ll find most of the stress and difficulty of your classes will fade away by just keeping up with these simple steps.

The post Tried-And-True Tricks For Improving Your Grades In Spring Semester (That Won’t Take Up All Your Time) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

New year, new you? Here’s a different way of thinking about it: Try crafting a new online persona.

According to a study by CareerBuilder, 70 percent of employers are checking out your online presence during the recruiting process. And part of that examination is seeing whether you actually have one in the first place. That means simply putting yourself on private mode is not enough.

Employers want to see you not only putting your right foot forward online, but also doing so in a communicative and tech-savvy way. Here are a few tips on how to do that.

1. Pick One Social Account to Make Public

Let’s face it: There are some things that aren’t work-appropriate that we still want to post, even though we know not to. Even a caption with explicit lyrics or a squad photo with drinks on a beach could be considered too risqué for certain employers. That’s why you should have a designated public-facing account.

So, pick one platform like Instagram or Twitter that you’ll leave public (Facebook is usually strictly for “friends” anyway). Make sure you prune any inappropriate or negative content. Stick to the stuff that you think is important and representative of your personality.

This account can serve as a great way to show employers and recruiters that you’re a normal, intelligent human being who knows how to work a computer and form whole thoughts.

2. Get Active on Professional Social Media

Nobody wants to be that person who is constantly posting obnoxious “rise and grind” quotes on social media. However, by posting a few thought leadership articles about the industry you’re in (or hoping to enter), you can make a good impression without looking like a poser.

Don’t know where to start with this? Try reading a few articles per month from professional blogs, and posting one or two that stand out to you on your public social media account. This shows potential employers that you’re well read, curious, and serious about your career.

If you can’t think of any “industry” or professional blogs, try looking up your field plus “blog” or “newsletter” (e.g. “Marketing blog,” “engineering newsletters”).

3. Make a Website

Making a [your name here].com might be the perfect way to showcase yourself on the internet. This is especially useful if you’re in any sort of creative field, from writing, to marketing, to academia. You can use this place as a host for anything, from work examples to particularly-polished PowerPoint presentations. Even if the field you’re entering doesn’t require writing samples or a portfolio, it’s nice to be able to show that you’ve written, researched, or did something that takes effort and discipline.

4. Publish an Article or Research Paper

It’s not hard to get into the writing game, at least on an amateur level. Whether you’re writing about a college student’s perspective on your future industry, a reflection on your latest summer internship, or some sort of research you’ve done for school, it’s all valuable when it comes to showing your interest in the field.

You don’t need to pitch your article or paper to an official publication either. You can publish it on your own website (see #4) or a free blog like Medium. This will also make the process more convenient and freeform: On your own site, you’re the editor-in-chief.

5. Let Companies Know You’ve Applied on Social Media

If you’re particularly proud of your social media presence, then feel free to reach out on social media after applying. Sending them a tweet, a reply, or even a DM on Instagram letting them know that you’re excited about the company and the role can help to form the impression that you’re sociable and courageous. It’s also another opportunity to have employers check you out online, which can put you top-of-mind when it comes to decision time.

The post New Year, New (Virtual) You: 5 Ways To Boost Your Social Media Presence To Advance Your Career appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Setting New Year’s resolutions can sometimes feel like a trap. Eating only salads, giving up Starbucks, going to bed before eleven o’clock: These are pipe dreams for many of us. However, there are some things that you can knock out not only in the first week of the New Year, but in the first day.

Here are just a few of the fastest, easiest New Year’s resolutions for college students and recent grads:

1. Revamp Your Resume (30 Minutes)

This is a task you could theoretically spend hours and hours on, but the reality of the situation is: It’s more about the content than the style. If you’ve gotten advice from a manager or a career counselor before on your resume, then you’re probably just going to need a tuneup. Put your latest accomplishments and extracurriculars on it, update the dates, and then get ready to put into application systems.

2. Update Your Online Profiles (30 Minutes)

This should be very quick. Use a nice, recent photo. If you don’t have one, put on a nice top and get someone to take a picture of you (Portrait Mode, please!) in front a neutral background. Think you sitting in front a blank wall—but smiling like you’re about to accept an award!

These are frequently checked by recruiters, so just make sure they are up to date. If you don’t have any yet, start here.

3. Ask For References/Recommendation Letters (20 minutes)

This is really the easiest one on the list, because mostly everyone you ask (nicely) will say yes. Think of your favorite professors, TAs, managers, and even family friends if you’re desperate. If you’ve ever had a debate team coach, camp supervisor, or any other responsible adult who believes in you, then you’re all set.

For people with whom you’ve got a closer relationship, send them a text or even give them a call. For professors and managers whom you’ve got a more businesslike acquaintance with, send them a brief, friendly email.

Let them know you’re starting the year off right by applying to jobs or internships and you’d love it if you could list them as a reference. Say it’s because you admire them as a professional/person/whatever and you really value their opinion.

Don’t overthink this ask. It’s very simple and shouldn’t be more than three brief paragraphs.

Example text/email:

SUBJECT LINE: Hi from [Your Name]
Hi, Professor Blankfield:

Hope your holidays went well. I’m hoping to start off my New Year right by kicking off the job/internship search.

I’m contacting you because I really admire you, enjoyed working with/studying under you, and hope that you enjoyed it, too.

Would you mind if I listed you as a reference on my job/internship application? I would really appreciate it.

[Here’s where you can ask for their contact info, if you don’t already have it.]

If you’d prefer to speak to me before moving forward with this or need anything else on my end, please let me know. Thanks so much for your time and consideration.

All the best,

[Your Name]

That’s just one example, but if you want to copy it word for word, then go ahead!

4. Start The Job Search (30 Minutes)

Luckily, while you’re waiting for those references and recommendation letters to start rolling in, there are plenty of jobs and internships that do NOT require them. Find a bunch of those jobs and start making a list of jobs you want to apply to.

If you see ones along the way that do require them, still make note of them and wait for the recommendations to come in before sending in your applications. If they have a deadline that ends very soon, then try using a family friend or closer adult acquaintance whom you’re comfortable asking to move faster on a letter.

Part of looking for a job is to decide what you really want. If you don’t do this, then your job search can be painfully aimless. If you need help figuring out what you really want, check this out.

5. Apply To (At Least) One Job/Internship (20 Minutes)

This might seem like the Herculean task at the end of a long road—but it’s really not.

The truth is, no matter how badly you want a job or an internship, most applications are just a small leap of faith that you have to just take. Small adjustments to your cover letter, resume, and online profiles can help, but they are just that: small.

Once you’ve prepared a resume, online profile, and gotten some references in order, then just do it.

Write a brief cover letter and apply to the job. It’s as simple as that—and it’s a huge step in the right direction.

Just Don’t Stop Applying

At this point, you’re probably wondering, “Can I really check off everything on this list in a single morning?” The answer is: Absolutely, yes. If you find yourself spending more than an hour on any of these, you’re taking too much time and need to make decisions faster.

Altogether, the actual work of this stuff should only take 2 hours and change. That leaves the other hour or so of the morning for some other stuff.

You can earmark this extra hour for a couple of things: your natural human tendency to triple-check stuff related to job applications, your need to snack, the very high likelihood you need to look at yourself in the mirror and say, “I got this,” between every one of these steps.

Whether it’s January 1st or the 21st night of September when you’re reading this, it’s never too late to start on some self-improving goals. (In fact, if you’re that late, just think of yourself as starting early on your 2020 goals. Silver linings!)

The post 5 New Year’s Resolutions You Can Finish In A Single Morning appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Applying to your first full-time job can be confusing. Often you have no idea where to start. What are the kinds of titles you should be searching for? How can you leverage your internship and other professional connections to help?

But, one of the most confusing aspects is the timing: When should you start applying to your first full-time job?

The answer is: Way sooner than you’d probably think (although, you’re not in too much trouble if you haven’t started yet).

When Should You Starting Applying To Your First Full-Time Job?

The answer to this question depends heavily on the industry you’re looking to enter.

If it’s finance, then many of the top programs secure hires through return offers at the end of summer internships. Other hires are made throughout the year, but the hiring process can start as early as the beginning of the academic year. So, if you’re about to be a senior (or a second semester senior), then there really is never too early a time to apply.

This is also true of places like consulting and accounting firms. However, it’s important to note that many of these places extend their candidate search throughout the year. So, don’t be disheartened if you haven’t already kicked off your hunt.

If you’re not in one of these select industries, then chances are you can start looking and applying for full-time jobs during winter break or at the end of the first semester (assuming you graduate in the spring).

The same rules apply for recent grads. If you’re less than a year out of school and hoping to find or transition to a job in the finance, accounting, and consulting fields, you should expect the process to be a long one.

Some places, like startups and media companies, hire so few people that they really only do it as needed. If you want to work at one of these places, check out online job postings, and apply. If you’re not seeing anything at a company you really admire, then you should try to get in contact with a university recruiter or early career recruiter at the company. Tell them you’re interested, when you’re graduating, and what you would want to do for them.

It’s Almost Never Too Early

Most entry-level job recruiting cycles work differently than their more senior-level counterparts.

These companies want talent fresh out of college and they understand that the people applying to these entry-level roles most likely will not be available until January or June.  That’s why it’s okay to start applying so soon.

Here are a couple of signs it’s okay to apply for the job early-on (or at any point) in your senior year:

• It’s an “analyst” or “associate” program that hires a “class” of new graduates every year.
• It says “looking for class of [your grad year here] graduates.”
• The job specifically says “entry-level” in the description or somewhere else on the posting—in which case the recruiters know that the coming year of graduates are going to apply.

If the job doesn’t fall underneath any of these categories, then you’re still good to start applying as soon as the end of your first semester. The recruiting process can take months, for all types of roles, so there really is no harm in starting to apply before or during your second semester of senior year.

The biggest lesson here is not to delay—especially if you’re going to need the funds to stay in your preferred city or start a new life somewhere else. Don’t leave the job hunt to one of the busiest (and best) times of your senior year: the end.

Eager to get your start? Try searching for jobs on WayUp.

The post When Should You Start Applying To Your First Full-Time Job? appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Second semester seniors have a reputation for being, well, checked out…

But beneath the veneer of a totally chill, wizened college veteran, there’s the feeling of impending doom that comes from the total life-altering change that is graduation. It can be pretty crippling not knowing what’s coming next.

And no one wants to be dragged down by anxiety while everyone else is out forming life-long memories. So, we’ve put together the perfect pre-Senior Spring checklist to beat the anxiety before it starts.

1. Make Sure You’re All Set For Graduation

This can be a pretty big headache, and chances are you’ve already worked this out before heading into your last semester, but it never hurts to double check. Set an appointment with your advisor and go over the list of graduation requirements. You don’t wanna be waiting at graduation wondering if they’re going to call your name (even if it would make an otherwise dry event pretty captivating).

With this off your to-do list early, you can focus on the important stuff like school, fun, and—oh, yes—applying for full-time jobs.

2. Start Applying For Jobs (Like, Right Now)

It might seem weird to apply in December or January for a job that might not start until the summer, but we can promise you that it’s standard practice. Plus, think about how good you’ll feel having a full-time job lined up for after graduation.

We have also heard from reliable sources that WayUp is a good place to start…

3. Make Sure You Have Enough Money

Senior spring can be expensive. Between the “Welcome Back” parties, the “We Made It” parties, the “Goodbye” parties, and the “We Really Made It” parties, there’s always a new cost around the corner. Make sure your bank account is ready for it.

Either curb your winter break spending and put some in savings or get to work on increasing your balance the old-fashioned way.

One way to insure your wallet can survive the coming storm: Get a side hustle (they also rock for your resume).

4. Make An Exit Plan (If You Can)

Moving out can be a hassle. Moving out while graduating, going to grad parties, traveling, or doing whatever else comes along with the big finish for you can be a HUGE hassle. So, make a plan now.

While your parents are probably already on it, make sure you align with them on the logistics. You might need a van or a truck. Just clear this stuff out of the way so you can make all of the celebration plans you deserve.

Now’s the time to seize the day, team. Run through this checklist. Keep applying to jobs. And don’t forget to actually enjoy your last semester.

The post Beat Graduation Anxiety Before It Starts With This Pre-Senior Spring Checklist appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Winter break can be long. According to a straw poll of folks at the WayUp office, breaks can last anywhere from a measly two weeks (Seriously, UPenn?) to a luxurious six (Bless you, NYU. #VioletPride).

For most people, let’s say, it falls somewhere in the middle. That means you’ve got a month to yourself. And no one’s saying you have to go crazy with work during it. It’s your free time and you totally earned it.

But, at the same time, there really isn’t a world in which you need every hour of a month entirely dedicated to chilling. Plus, in a way, preventing future stress is sort of like relaxing (but, like, in the future tense).

So, with that being said, here are four things to keep on your winter break checklist that are sure to lead to happier, more fulfilling (but still entirely relaxing) winter break.

1. Stay Healthy (And Happy)

That sedentary lifestyle can kick in a little too hard over winter break. It’s cold. There’s nothing on the agenda. Plus, you stayed up really late last night. That’s a recipe for a couch/bed-locked disaster day.

We’re not saying you have to be the guy from P90x or anything, but getting some exercise can really help with your mood and general energy.

We know you don’t have your school’s gym to go to, but see if you can borrow your dad’s YMCA card or a friend’s sports club membership on their off day. A treadmill, a weight room, and an indoor pool all offer much warmer venues for exercise than the great outdoors. Plus, there are tons of workouts you can do at home, no equipment required.

2. Apply For Internships (Or—Yikes—Your First Full-Time Job)

For the first time in a long time, you’ve got time. Use it wisely.

It might be hard to comprehend, but recruitment for many of the summer’s best internship programs (and even entry-level job openings) has already begun. We get it, you were too busy doing school and life and everything else first semester to think about applying for your dream summer position. That’s why now is the time to strike.

Here are a few tips to get yourself into fighting shape for application season (crafting a perfect resume, updating your online profiles, writing quality cover letters, and finding the right jobs to apply to).

3. Read A Single Book (For Fun)

There’s so much to watch. And—we really believe this—there’s no shame in TV or movies. They’re art, too. But scientists (and every English teacher you’ve ever had) will tell you that there is legitimately something different about what reading does for your brain. It makes you more empathetic. It makes your brain work better. Plus, it also makes you more interesting to talk to.

Space it out over however long you decide. Do it before you go to bed or while you eat breakfast. Just get it done. If you pick a classic (or even a modern classic), then chances are you will not regret it.

4. Make Some Money And Beef Up Your Resume

This one’s for the real go-getters. You know how much a semester’s worth of fun costs. You also know how much time a “part-time” job can actually take up—especially a campus-based job. Plus, there’s always your actual school work.

So, winter break might be the perfect time to stock up on some funds AND beef up your resume for all the summer internships (or full-time jobs) you’re going to apply to in a not-so-distant future.

But getting that bread doesn’t have to mean donning the mask of delivery driver for your local sandwich spot, either. There are plenty of ways that college students can make money without putting their entire life on hold. Here’s a quick list of awesome side hustles that will beef up your wallet (and your resume).

If you manage to nail these steps, you’ll be headed back to school in fighting shape. Let the winter chill-but-not-too-chill begin!

The post The WayUp Guide To A Perfectly Productive (And Fun) Winter Break appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Whether you’re graduating in just a few weeks, already did a few months ago, or are getting ahead of your looming May 2019 date, one thing is certain: Now is the time to apply for your dream job.

One convincing piece of evidence: A ton of people already have.

Here’s a list of the top 10 most popular jobs on WayUp this month. If you see your dream job among them, you should get applying, fast.

(Pro Tip: Most job seekers need to send about 10 resumes for every one interview. So keep applying and don’t get discouraged!)

1. Public Administration/Government Analyst Consultant @ Crowe

2. Staffing Recruiter/Sales @ Apex

3. Entry-Level Consultant: Machinery & Equipment Valuation @ CohnReznick

4. Inside Sales Representative @ Dell

5. Arts Executive @ Brunswick Group

6. Business Operations Analyst @ BlackRock

7. Assistant Scientist R&D Rotational Program @ Johnson & Johnson

8. Associate Teacher (K-12) @ Success Academy Charter Schools

9. Financial Representative @ Northwestern Mutual

10. Quality Control Analyst Associate @ Lockheed Martin

There you have it: Ten different dream jobs. The competition is on, but the good news is that all of these jobs are still live. You can still apply (and you totally should).

Don’t see your dream job? Don’t sweat it. Head to WayUp and start searching entry-level jobs. Then just apply, interview, and watch the offers roll in!

The post Top 10 Most Popular Entry-Level Jobs On WayUp This Month (November 2018) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Finding your perfect internship starts with finding the right company. Do they offer mentorship? Do they have rotational internship programs? Do they offer perks and networking events?

We’ve put together a list of companies that not only offer a ton of these internship essentials, but also are looking for people like you—right now.

How much easier can we make it? Click on these companies to see fun facts, videos, articles, and—of course—amazing internship opportunities.

1. EY

2. Nielsen

3. Citi

4. The TJX Companies

5. Under Armour

6. Target

7. UPS

8. Raytheon

9. L’Oréal

10. MassMutual

Like what you see but can’t find a role for you? Don’t sweat it. Check out all of WayUp’s top companies and find your dream internship today!

The post Top 10 Companies Hiring Interns This Month On WayUp (December 2018) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Halloween is all about the balance of sour and sweet, spooky and serene, and—of course—tricks and treats.

A trick would be a jump scare in a movie. Or those costumes that fall apart as soon as you leave Party City. Also, that neighbor who puts apples in his plastic cauldron instead of candy definitely counts.

Some treats? Full-size candy bars, for sure. Nailing the perfect costume for $10 at a thrift store. And, of course, finding your next job or internship on WayUp right now is pretty sweet, too.

To help with that last one, we’ve put together five of the (literally) sweetest jobs on WayUp.

1. Full-Time Nabisco Sales Service Representative @ Mondelēz

What’s sweeter than working at the world’s largest cookie conglomerate on one of their most iconic brands? You’ll be working on the tail end of the supply chain. It’ll be your job to make sure that all of Nabisco’s in-store customers get what they want. The position comes with full benefits, experience at a major consumer goods company, and (we bet) a ton of free cookies.

2. Food Solutions Marketing Internship (2019) @ Unilever

Unilever is the force behind a ton of your favorite ice cream brands: Magnum, Popsicle, and—the holy grail—Ben & Jerry’s. What’s sweeter than that? Plus, they make a ton of other great products. To name a few: Dove, Axe, Vaseline, and Popsicle. Unilever makes so many things that, on any given day, 2.5 BILLION people on Earth use/consume/love its products.

As an intern on their Food Solutions Marketing team, you’ll be putting your creative and analytical skills to the test in a top notch internship program with a ton of learning, mentorship, and perks.

3. Restaurant Business Consulting (Leadership Development Program) @ McDonald’s Corporation

While they’re mostly known for their savory, salty offerings, McDonald’s restaurants are home to the McFlurry, McCafe, and tons of other delectable treats that make working for them one of the sweetest jobs on WayUp.

The program is for recent grads with business, economics, finance, and other analytical skills looking for a role in creative, thoughtful business management. You’ll learn a ton, have a fast-track into the department of your choice, and earn a generous starting salary of $65,000.

4. Global Supply Chain Intern (2019)@ Starbucks

Starbucks is the world’s largest coffee cafe. They serve sweet drinks, sugar-coated cinnamon buns, and gourmet chocolate, making them one of the downright sweetest companies hiring on WayUp.

As an intern on their Global Supply Chain team, you’ll be working in a fast-paced world. Starbucks has a highly developed, top-tier logistics and production operation. And with that kind of experience, you can start an amazing career anywhere.

5. Research & Innovation Intern @ L’Oréal

While L’Oréal isn’t known for anything strictly edible, they make tons of products with enticing aromas and saccharine scents. That’s why working on their Research & Innovation team as an intern is one of the sweetest jobs on WayUp right now.

If you’re a Material Sciences or Chemistry major, then you’re probably familiar with some of the incredible ingredients that go into making premium skincare and makeup products. You’ll be working with these sweet and potent components to create new products for one of the world’s most respected brands.

These Jobs Are Just The Beginning

Don’t see your dream job on this list? Don’t sweat it. We’ve got thousands of employers hiring for thousands of open entry-level jobs and internships right now on WayUp.

Explore our Top Companies page now to see even more amazing opportunities!

The post All Treats, No Tricks: The 5 Sweetest Jobs (And Internships!) On WayUp, Literally appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Don’t miss out on insights from three amazing finance professionals with exciting careers outside the banking world. Join us on October 30 in person at WayUp’s NYC headquarters in the Flatiron District or watch at home as we stream the event on Facebook Live.

RSVP today and get the best seats in the house for food, networking, insider insights, and more.

Studying or interested in finance, but not in the traditional path of banking? You’re in luck.

There are plenty of options for people with financial skill sets outside of the banking world. Corporate Finance, Accounting, and even Venture Capital are all paths available to finance-types without a desire to enter the traditional banking grind.

And thanks to Johnson & Johnson, some of the leaders in those spaces are headed to WayUp on October 30 to talk about how people like you can start their finance careers, entirely free of the banking world.

One of the expert panelists, Vinny Pujji, is a 2014 graduate of UPenn’s elite Huntsman program in Economics and International Studies. After founding two startups in online payments and education, Vinny joined the team at Insight Venture Partners in New York City where he serves as an Investment Associate. He’ll talk all about combining a finance skill set with other passions to fuel a career in one of the most exciting, rewarding industries: Venture Capital.

Our other panelist is a veteran of Corporate Finance: Scott Trzaskawka, who works as the VP of Global Finance Talent Development at Johnson & Johnson, where he oversees the development of hundreds of recent grads and new hires on Johnson & Johnson’s finance team. He’ll talk about how finance plays a role in major corporations and how you can utilize more than just the number-crunching part of your brain when you get a job in Corporate Finance.

Finally, we’ll be joined by WayUp’s own Director of Finance and Accounting, Jess McKean. She’s worked for both large corporations and in fast-paced startups as an accounting and finance expert.

The event is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson. They’ve remained a leader in healthcare and consumer goods for more than a century by embracing technological trends, constantly innovating, and—most important—hiring only the best talent for all of their teams.

The post Learn Everything You Need To Know About Finance Careers Beyond Banking With WayUp appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Going to school isn’t just about gaining an education; it’s also about forming professional relationships that’ll help you carve the path to your dream career. From your first year in college to your last, part of your time as a student should revolve around preparing for your career and making sure to use all of the resources at your disposal. Networking is an essential and integral part of your professional development and definitely shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Even the best students make these gaffes, so let’s go ahead, and get your professional network in tip-top shape by discussing the top 5 mistakes students tend to make.

1. Thinking It’s Way Too Early to Start

A common mistake students make is believing that they need to be juniors or seniors before starting to build their professional networks, but like any relationship in life, the more time you invest into it, the stronger it becomes. As early as your freshman year (if not earlier), you should begin forming a career plan and be on the look-out for opportunities to connect with companies and professionals in your industry.

A great way to get started is by joining a professional organization at your school! Industry-minded organizations such as the ACS (American Chemical Society) and the SEA (Student Education Association) have chapters located in colleges all throughout the country. They host networking events of their own all the time, focusing on providing students of all years with valuable knowledge and connections in their fields. Some may require membership dues (as low as $10/year), but the leverage gained really pays for itself.

It is never too early to go out and gain exposure in the professional world. Show up to events, talk to everyone, be honest about where you currently are, express your interest and stay in touch. A conversation you had your freshman year might score you a job upon graduation.

2. Connecting Only With Students in the Same Major

Some of the greatest collaborations and partnerships known throughout the world began between college friends. It’s a commonly overlooked fact, but you might have a potential business partner sitting in your classroom right now. Start talking to some of your peers, and you might find that your career goals align.

Don’t just focus on connecting with students only in your major, though. Strive for compatibilities, not just similarities, so that you create a wider and more diverse network. If you’re a graphic designer with hopes of creating your own magazine and your roommate is an English major and aspiring editor, keep in touch! These are the times to form those relationships that will help carry your career forwards, so hold them close.

3. Speaking to Professors Only About Grades

Your greatest source of support and connections will sometimes come from the very individuals teaching your classes. Your professors are people who have years of experience and are more than willing to share all of that with you (otherwise they wouldn’t be teaching!).

If you have questions or would like recommendations for graduate programs or professional options, send your professors an email or talk to them after class. Set up a time during their office hours to discuss your career path; they can shed a light on any doubts or concerns you might have.

4. Keeping Circles Local

As a student, it may be tempting to keep your contacts within a few miles outside of your own home or college town, but this isn’t a wise move in the professional world. There are plenty of opportunities available to you beyond your town and state, so don’t be shy about branching out. In this age of social media and the internet, it’s easier than ever; companies located miles away are now only an email or tweet away!

Even if you aren’t contemplating relocating after college, keeping your network wide and open will lessen the risk of you missing out on a great opportunity not only within, but also beyond your own backyard.

5. Failing to Stay in Touch

Once you’ve made a connection with someone, it is essential to keep in contact with them over time, or else that connection will fade. Sending people a quick “hello” or tagging them in a relevant article with a note like “This reminds me of your work” keeps the conversation going even years after you’ve last seen each other. You don’t have to maintain in constant communication with them, but do be present and accessible.

Feel free to reach out for advice or an opinion concerning something relevant; just be sure not to ask for too much or make the conversations all about what they can do for you. Don’t worry if they don’t respond right away; recognize that they may be pretty busy, so remember to be patient. If it’s been some time since you’ve met, begin first by reminding them how you know each other, and always be sure to exercise proper social media and email etiquette in order to keep your communication professional.

So, which of these mistakes are you guilty of? The good news is, it’s never too late to fix any of them. Make the most of your life as a student and set yourself up for even greater success with strong connections and contacts. So, be bold and get that network growing!

The post 5 Networking Mistakes Even the Smartest Students Make appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

It’s pretty rare to find an app that actually gives you real money with no strings attached. After all, the money has to come from somewhere. But thanks to an app we recently discovered, Paribus, the money’s coming from online stores and retailers you’ve recently shopped at. And since part of our jobs at WayUp is to help students get through college more easily, we had to share this one with you.

What is Paribus? After you make your normal online purchases, Paribus tracks when prices on those purchases go down, and then it helps put money back into your pocket—no effort required. Seriously, none.

Here’s a look at how Paribus works.

Paribus Tracks Your Receipts To Get You What You’re Owed

Many retailers have policies that entitle you to a refund if they later reduce the price of a product you’ve purchased. But even though retailers routinely do just that, many of us forgo the money we’re owed because we don’t want to jump through the normal hoops required to get that money back. Do you track the prices of every item you buy after you buy them? Probably not. But Paribus does — they’ll jump through the hoops for you!

The algorithm the Paribus team developed (psst! they’re hiring) continuously tracks both store policies and online prices after they log your receipt. Then, if the price drops, they’ll either get the refund for you—with no extra effort on your part—or send you a quick email letting you know how you can easily and simply obtain it for yourself.

All you’ve gotta do is sign up for Paribus and sync it with your email. Then, let the money roll in.

So far, they’ve found more than $28 million in savings for their users.

Where Does It Work?

The Paribus team currently has their algorithm monitoring more than 25 major retailers. Online stores like, Walmart, Anthropologie, Zappos, Costco, Gap, Target, Nordstrom, Macy’s, L.L. Bean, Loft, and Wayfair are all on the Paribus watch list. They also monitor late shipping from Amazon for you!

It’s a pretty robust list. And as you’ve probably noticed, it includes basically every place you’ve used to stock up on your school supplies, furnish your dorm, get your Official First Day of School outfit, and do way more of the stuff that comes with being a student.

When Should I Start Using This?

College is crazy expensive. We know — we’ve been there, and many of us at WayUp are still paying it off. But Paribus can help you save money during college, and we’d recommend starting now. Why? Because at the time of us writing this, “Back to School” sales are slowly finishing, which means prices on the “Back to School” items you’ve bought (notebooks, stationery, supplies, dorm room swag, etc) are going to start dropping. And you can get money back as a result.

Interested in saving a little extra green with no extra effort? Sign up today with your email directly on their website!

The post Our New Favorite App That Literally Gives You Money (We’re Serious) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Searching for your summer internship or first job after college is obviously a nerve-racking experience—but it shouldn’t be.

With more digital platforms, online guides, and amazing companies hiring than ever before, it’s so easy to find your dream role at your dream company. Whether it’s your first job or an internship that you’re looking for, both can be amazing opportunities that pave the way for rewarding, life-long careers.

However, all of the possible benefits put a lot of pressure on the search process. Here are three tips for keeping calm during the job search process.

1. You Can Prepare More Than Ever Before

There’s not a type of job interview in the world that someone hasn’t already done—and they probably wrote a blog post about it. Even interviews for specific companies have reviews written for them on Glassdoor and similar sites. We’ve assembled guides on most types of interviews.

Even if you’re worried about the stuff that comes before interviewing, we’ve got you covered. We’ve got guides on resumes (even on how to make job-specific resumes). Don’t worry about stuff like cover letters, cold emailing, and networking events, either.

With all these resources online and (hopefully) better education standards than ever before, you have the ability to be fully prepared for any type of interview.

2. You Can (And Definitely Should) Apply To More Than Just A Few Jobs

It might not seem like it while you’re spending every day looking for just one of them, but there are so many jobs out there. Most recruiting experts will say that—even for top-tier, experienced talent—a healthy ratio of applications to interviews is to 10:1. In some places, that number is as high as 27 applications to get one job interview.

So, ask yourself, have you sent out 10 job applications yet? That’s just for one interview. You should really be thinking about sending out about 40-50 applications over the course of a few weeks.

One of the biggest mistakes people make in the job application process is that they simply don’t submit enough applications. Some people are tinkering perfectionists who just can’t seem to finish something to their standards. Others are just ignorant to the reality of the situation. But this isn’t bad news.

There are thousands of jobs out there. The goal is to find the right one for you. Don’t spend all your time obsessing over minor details for the three jobs you’ve decided you do really want. Take that passion you have for those jobs and find other ones just like them. You’re much better off finding your dream title and role and then applying to it at multiple companies you think are a great fit.

3. Businesses Are Looking For More Than Just Experience

If you’re a college student or recent grad, chances are you don’t have a ton of professional experience. That’s okay. In fact, for some companies, it’s actually what they’re looking for.

Entry-level jobs are called “entry-level” for a reason. They’re for people hoping to find their way into an industry or career path. They’re not for industry veterans or insiders—or even people with 3-5 years of experience. Entry-level jobs are for recent grads.

Some college students even worry that they will be blocked out from internships because of a lack of other internship experience. There are plenty of ways to get a job or internship when you don’t have experience. For example, highlighting skills on your resume gained from school projects, extracurricular activities, or volunteering.

More than anything, businesses want people who have done their research on the industry, have a demonstrated interest in their potential job, and have the curiosity and intelligence to learn. Show them these qualities, and it’s not all about who had the flashiest internship her junior year.

The Best Tip

Research the companies, make sure your resume and cover letter are set, and apply. However, the real trick is doing all this in about an hour (of actual focused work time). Don’t spend too much time worrying or even researching (you can save the bulk of your research for once you get the interview).

Have we squashed your fears yet? Need more career advice? Check out amazing companies and all-star advice on the WayUp blog.

The post BOO! Job Hunting Shouldn’t Be Scary: 3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Fear The Job Search Process appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

When it comes to companies, size really does matter.

A lifetime of effort goes into finding a job, but the work doesn’t stop there. There’s way more to consider about a prospective employer than the fact you might have received a job offer from them.

Everything from the dress code to the opportunities for advancement can be essential parts of making sure you’re happy in the next chapter of your life. And size is one of the biggest factors in determining these facts.

1. Responsibilities: Would You Rather Wear Many Hats Or Just One?

Size can mean everything when thinking about your company responsibilities. It makes intuitive sense, too: The fewer people there are who work at a company, the higher the chance that you will be asked to perform tasks outside your job description.

This can be pretty incredible for someone just starting a career. It’s the opportunity to build even more skills and experience for your resume. However, it can go both ways. You don’t want to be asked to do so many jobs that you end up with limited proficiency in your actual field.

Finding a firm in the “Goldilocks Zone” between these extremes, like CohnReznick—one of the country’s premier accounting consultancies—can be the ideal situation for recent grads. With a few thousand employees in offices around the country, CohnReznick is large enough to support you in your own specialty, while lean enough to let you take ownership of your work and build meaningful relationships with people in upper management.

2. Resources: What Are You Working With?

This is one of the realms in which you’ll find the biggest difference between a small company and a massive enterprise—for obvious reasons, too. Established industry giants usually have whole departments dedicated to providing you with the necessary tech, like phones, laptops, and software packages. Startups and small companies might not have a conference room for every meeting.

However, certain companies do actually manage to strike a balance between resources and the above-listed responsibilities. At an established midsize firm, you can get things like amazing benefits and tech, while still being able to take on actual responsibilities that you can get credit for nailing.

3. Corporate Culture

You should always think about what your life will be like day to day. Are you comfortable putting on a tie every morning? Will you be bored to death on your hour-long commute? These details, while not a factor that the company chooses for itself, are realities that you need to consider. Maybe you can find another job that allows you to wear t-shirts and walk to work. Maybe you work best in a more traditional environment. These things are personal and have to play a role in your decision.

The Goldilocks Zone

If you’re someone who wants to get ahead fast by taking on major challenges at your first job, but you don’t want to take on the risk or hassle of working for a startup, finding a company that’s smack dab in the Goldilocks Zone could be a smart career move.

It’s not just about first jobs, either. Even internships for companies outside the zone can pose challenges, too. If your goal is to not only get experience but also secure a job after graduation, then a midsize company could be your best bet.

Want to work in the Goldilocks Zone? Click here to learn more about opportunities at CohnReznick on WayUp

The post 3 Things You Need To Think About When Deciding If A Company Is The Right Fit (And Size!) For You appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

One of the biggest advantages you can give yourself in the competitive internship application process is time. There are very few things that cannot be accomplished if you provide yourself enough time. That’s why the best way to secure your spring 2019 internship is to start now.

Here at WayUp, we’ve put together the one-stop guide for securing that perfect spring 2019 internship. Doing something like that could help you 1) get the perfect summer internship, 2) get the perfect post-grad job, and 3) make you insanely rich and famous. Okay, maybe not #3. But it can definitely help you start an amazing career.

Follow these five steps and you’re off to the races.

1. Start Researching What You Really Want (Make A List!)

You’re not always going to know what you want. Even if you study something specific like Electrical Engineering, there are a ton of different disciplines within the field that you might want to explore. So, start doing your research: Read internship reviews, job descriptions, and see what top companies are really offering students. (Sometimes it’s easier to find a good internship if you pick a company you admire rather than a specific role!)

Make a list of skills you want to learn, hone, and get exposure to. Write down companies you admire. Think about people whose careers you want to emulate and reach out to them (or research them online if they’re celebrities/high-ranking executives), so that you can see how you might do the same thing.

This should help you make another list (the important one): Spring 2019 internships you actually want to apply to. Maybe even make a spreadsheet with all the due dates and requirements.

2. Prepare The Right Resume(s)

If you’re someone with an interest in both journalism and advertising, for example, you’re going to need more than one resume if you really want to stand out in both types of applications.

For journalism jobs, you’d want to focus on not just writing experience, but also research and reporting.

However, for advertising, you’d focus your resume on writing as it relates to other creative ventures, any sort of client or relationship skills you have, as well as any sort of business experience.

Optimizing your resume to fit the role is really important, because so many places—especially big, prestigious companies—sort applicants based on the presence of skills. To get a better idea of which skills they’re looking for. Check out job descriptions and online applications to see what they’re listing.

3. Beef Up Your Resume

If you don’t have “great skills,” then don’t worry. There’s still time to get them. Here’s how.

It’s the beginning of fall semester. Club fairs abound! Club leaders love to have new people join their orgs and each of these is an opportunity to demonstrate interest in a subject, commitment, social skills, and even leadership. Once you’re in a club, you can help them organize events (valuable skill), manage budgets (really valuable skill), and even lead teams or task forces (totally invaluable skill).

There’s also still time to get a Fall internship. Try using WayUp to find the perfect fit in your area. Even if companies aren’t formally hiring, you can still email someone on the team and send them your own proposal for an internship.

Volunteer experience is 1) always a good thing for the people you’re helping and 2) always looks good on your resume. It can also be a shorter-term commitment than a club membership or an internship. You could go on a week-long service trip or volunteer every other weekend.

4. Get All Your App Requirements Ready

Some apps are much harder than others. Long personal statements, recommendation letters, references, and more can take up your precious time and put you in danger of submitting an incomplete app or—even worse—entirely missing an app deadline. That’s why starting early is so important.

As for letters of recommendation, those can take serious time to write, especially if you want the person to do a good job. So, to be courteous (another amazing trait they can include in your recommendation), ask with at least two weeks notice, preferably longer. If you don’t have that kind of time, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ask. You want to do a great job—not a good job—on this app. So, ask ahead.

As for personal statements, make them stand out. Everyone wants that perfect Spring 2019 internship, everyone’s passionate (at least on paper), and everyone wants to “make the world a better place.” Tell them how you plan to do this. Tell them WHY it matters to you. There’s so much you there—you just have to put it in the app. (But nothing too weird! It’s not literature; it’s business.)

5. Now Apply (As Early As Possible)

Once all your ducks are in a row, you can actually submit (ahead of time) your very first, perfect application to a spring 2019 internship. This will give them a chance to really savor and digest your application. Don’t worry, they’re not going to forget about you because you applied early. They LOVE when people get their apps in ahead of time, before the big deadline rush.

Want more Back To School hacks, amazing career tips, and everything else you need to succeed in the working world? Check out the WayUp Guide right now!

The post How To Get The Perfect Spring 2019 Internship (Hint: Start The Application Process Now) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

This is my favorite challenge. Let’s face it, what’s the point of doing internships anyway?

Yes, to get hands-on experience. But in the end, many college students are looking for that job offer.

Internships are not only beneficial for you to test-drive a career; they’re beneficial for your employer to see what your skills really are on a more in-depth level than just an interview and resume. They get to see you in action.

So how do you turn an internship into a job? Two words: be irreplaceable.

Make yourself worth something to the company. Add value to the position you’re in, and you’ll be irreplaceable. If you’re just stuck doing coffee runs and licking envelopes, they can find someone else to fill your shoes in two seconds. But, if you’re bringing new ideas to the company or increasing their following on social media, you’re giving yourself value as an employee.

You know you have value when you leave your internship to go back to school and the company feels that it’s missing “something.” What they’re missing, is you.

I’ve had quite a few interns with my company Headbands of Hope. Unfortunately, most of them were replaceable…except for one.

My first ever hire with my company was an intern that blew my socks off. She started as a campus representative at her school. Fast forward a couple months down the road, she was head of all the campus reps in the nation.

Eventually, I stopped giving her tasks because she was so good at creating her own tasks that I didn’t want to waste her efforts on things I could do myself. As an intern, she was my go-to person for events or any networking opportunities I couldn’t make. She gained my trust to be the face of the company when I couldn’t.

Needless to say, she was hired immediately following her graduation. When an employer finds someone who’s irreplaceable, they have a very hard time letting them just leave, whether there’s a position available or not. Even if the company isn’t hiring at the time, they’ll make room for someone who proves his or her value.

Here are some steps to turn an internship into a job:

1. Arrive Early

This may seem simple, but being there before your boss walks in every day says a lot about your work ethic. Notice how I didn’t say, “Leave late.” I don’t think leaving late says as much as coming early. I appreciate employees who find efficient and effective ways to do their work and don’t need to work into the night. Arrive early, and work efficiently.

2. Don’t Wait for Tasks

If you wait for tasks to come to you, you’ll most likely get the stereotypical “intern” ones: filling coffee, licking envelopes, or making cold calls. But, if you’re proactive and create your own tasks, you’ll prove yourself as a “real” employee and your supervisors can see your value. If you take the initiative and put some great ideas together for say their annual fundraiser, your next task will probably not include making coffee…unless it’s coffee for you because of all the professional tasks that were just handed to you.

3. Speak Up In Meetings

I remember when I interned at NBC’s TODAY Show in New York City, every once in a while they’d bring interns into their staff meetings. Everyone would go around the room and say an idea if they had one. Most interns were under the impression that these meetings were to “observe how meetings work.” However, those are the kind of interns that write down sandwich orders.

When I spoke my ideas, a lot of them were shut down, just like other producers. But all it takes is that one idea that they run with. For me, it was a rock paper scissors robot that predicted what you’d throw and won every time. Who knew that was the pitch that they’d choose? No matter what business meeting you’re in or what your profession, contribute in front of people in meetings. It shows that you’re not afraid and you’re prepared with ideas.

4. Make Your Work Measurable

It’s one thing to bring a “positive attitude” to work every day, but it’s another to have measurable success that can be seen by your supervisors. What will get you hired are increased sales through the clients you yourself worked with. Or increased “likes” on Facebook after you started doing their social media. Anything that you can measure to show your value to the company is huge because numbers don’t lie.

5. Make It Known: You Want the Job

Lastly, make it known that you want the job. You won’t be considered for the job if you don’t seem like you want to work there. Request a meeting with your boss in the middle of your internship. Explain how much you believe in the company and what they do. Then, present measurable evidence of your work that you’ve done and express your interest in a position at the company post-graduation. If they say they’re not hiring or “We’ll see,” ask what steps you can take now to prepare yourself to come on full-time.

Jessica Ekstrom is the founder of Headbands of Hope, a college leadership speaker and a graduate of North Carolina State University.

The post 5 Ways to Turn an Internship Into a Job appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

The Fall semester is an amazing time of year. New classes, new spaces, and another round of opportunities to join all the clubs, groups, and initiatives you regretted not doing before. All this isn’t just good news for your personal growth, either. Every one of these opportunities can be awesome for your resume.

1. Join A Club/Organization You Really Care About

One of the things employers love most in potential candidates is passion. It’s a combination of dedication, enthusiasm, and curiosity that’s really hard to find in people—especially when you’re just looking at their resumes.

But finding something that you really care about and giving it your all can lead you not only to better social circumstances, but also better professional ones. What if you become the A Capella superstar your school always needed? What if you’re the national debate champion? All of these things make you feel more confident in yourself and give you plenty to talk about during interviews. They’re also ways of demonstrating your commitment to your commitments—especially if you can manage to be a good student while also being a great fill-in-the-blank.

Even if there’s no competitive aspect to the organization, there are still ways to excel. Seek leadership roles, organize fundraisers and events, and try to get your hands on some management skills while you’re at it. You can make friends and build valuable work skills. After all, they’re gonna want to hear about more than just your summer internship during your next job interview.

2. Get A Part-Time Job/Fall Internship

Summer is the season of internships, but the needs of businesses don’t just disappear in the fall.

Now’s the time to grab the reins and get yourself an internship or a part-time job for the fall semester. Few things look as good on a resume as work experience and who doesn’t need a little extra cash? And, given that there are usually fewer interns in the Fall, you can almost always make quality connections with important people in the office.

3. Volunteer With Your Spare Time

Volunteering is good for everyone. The people (or animals, or planet, or body of water, or body of cultural artifacts etc.) will certainly be grateful for your help. Plus, you’re building practical skills. And, at the end of the day, it’s much easier to secure a spot volunteering somewhere than it is to secure a very competitive internship. And it will certainly help you on that path, too.

Most non-profits and organizations that accept volunteers are also comfortable accepting other types of volunteering, like offering them social media consulting or helping them run their website. Stuff like this gives you valuable professional experience and also helps a good cause in a way that you might not have considered before.

Ask your local charity if they need any help running the organization. Tell them what you study and why you want to contribute your talents to their cause. You’d be surprised what kinds of opportunities might come your way.

Another great thing about volunteering is that it’s a very flexible, possibly very small time commitment. You can do it once every two weeks or even once a month and still do something good while beefing up your resume.

4. Dive Deep Into Your Classes, Study Hard, And Get Amazing Grades

Fall semester is also a time for, you know, school. Killing it in your classes will give you an easy way to demonstrate a lot of these important traits like determination, intelligence, curiosity, and all-around responsibility.

A lot of the most competitive employers ask for your GPA (even if it isn’t the most important factor) and having the 3.8 jump off the page at them is an awesome way to make a good first impression!

Plus, you might actually learn something that you can use later in your life.

Whatever You Do, Just Do Something

Don’t let the semester disappear without you getting any new, enriching experiences. What you do in fall semester can make excellent material for the job interviews that come in the Spring and Summer. You’ll also have the opportunity to make friends and connections you’d have never otherwise met.

For more tips, tricks, and hacks for crafting the perfect resume, acing the interview, and securing your dream job, check out the WayUp Guide for more!

The post 4 Ways To Make Fall Semester Work For Your Resume appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

The balancing act is one of the most difficult things to master.

The balance between work and life is one of the biggest struggles many young professionals deal with on a daily basis. As students, we must balance school, a social life and work. As student interns, we must balance all of that plus an internship. Internships are a lot of work to begin with, but when thrown in with all of your other responsibilities, you will begin to feel overwhelmed. There’s no perfect way to balance everything in your life, but there are a few things you can do to make everything run smoothly.

First off, get organized. Nothing will ever get done in a timely fashion or done well if you aren’t organized. Organization doesn’t mean you need to color-code, file or plan your every step, but it means to gather everything you need to be successful. Find your perfect method of organization and master it. I make a to-do list for each project/organization that I have work for and cross things off as I complete them. I also color code a monthly calendar, so I can see everything in a monthly view. Sometimes if I really want to get crazy, I color code my Google calendar that holds every event and reminder that I could possibly need.

Budget your time. Know how much time you need to work on your different projects. If you know you like to outline, draft and then edit your papers, make sure you give yourself enough time during the week to do so.

Also, ensure that you give yourself enough time for a social life. I used to rarely give myself any social time, but realized that it took a toll on my overall well-being. Give yourself time for a social life, your academics, your internship work and any other work you may have. You won’t be rushing towards the end to get everything done.

Set goals for yourself at the beginning of every week. Whether you have to create a social media campaign for your internship or have a research paper due for your history class, prioritizing tasks at the beginning of the week adds to your organization, but also ensures that you do your best work. Goals allow you to grow and plan for everything you want to accomplish.

With that being said, know how to prioritize. In the end, school really does come first, and your internship supervisor will understand that. If you have a huge research paper one week, let them know. If finals preparation will take some time, they will let you take some time off. Be sure to keep them up to date with how you are balancing your school work. They care about you, and they know that school is important too.

Also, know that you are at your internship to work. They offered you the position because they need you. You are a vital part to their team, so make sure you’re contributing.

Remember to have fun. All of the work you’re doing is for a reason. Internships are meant to be fun. You’re there to work and learn, but also to make connections and have a good time. No matter what you’re doing, you shouldn’t be forcing yourself to have an unpleasant time. Enjoy your lunch break by spending it with your co-workers, have a study group with your friends and go out once in a while.

While you probably feel like you have a million things to do and no time to complete them all, you will find the time. Find a balance in your life, and you will find a way to get everything done and have fun while you’re doing it. You’re doing something important in every aspect of your life, so make sure you’re giving everything your all. Work hard because it will be worth it in the end, no matter how cliche that may sound.

The post How to Balance an Internship and School appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Whether you are starting your summer internship or continuing an office job, here are 8 tips to improve your focus and reduce stress at work.

1. Start your day with a healthy breakfast

Eating a healthy breakfast improves cognitive performance, memory, and attention as well as gives you sustained energy for the work day. Breakfasts with a low glycemic index (e.g., fruit, whole grains, and oats) and high in protein (e.g., yogurt, eggs) have been shown to be most effective in improving cognitive performance and mood. Avoid foods with refined sugar and for sweets, substitute with maple syrup or honey instead.

2. Try deep breathing

Deep breathing and focusing only on your breath for five to ten minutes both slows your heart rate and relaxes the mind.  The more that you practice this skill daily, you can improve your anxiety when you need it most. Meditation and deep breathing exercises have been shown to improve focus and attention in children and adults with attention deficit disorder.

3. Get up and stretch

Jobs often require long periods of sitting in front of a computer, causing neck and shoulder tension and back pain, especially if posture is not well-supported. When your body is tense, that can cause and compound mental stress. Take a look at your desk and chair to make sure you’ve optimized the set up for a healthy and comfortable posture. Also take a break and try stretches and yoga geared for office settings.

4. Keep snacks on hand that are healthy

For the unexpected late nights at work, make sure you have healthy snacks on hand so you don’t have to resort to the vending machines that usually have highly processed foods, often with refined sugar. Instead, keep on hand fresh fruit such as blueberries and nuts or vegetables like carrots and celery, which have a lot more vitamins and nutrients.

5. Don’t skip lunch

It might be the first thing to go when you’re swamped at work, but skipping lunch can set you more behind over time by reducing your effectiveness and making you more irritable and fatigued. Even if it means eating at your desk, your midday meal can provide a boost of energy. Avoid heavy or spicy foods that might cause sleepiness, digestion issues, or heartburn.

6. Stay hydrated throughout the day

Working in high stress environments can cause you to forget to stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and irritability. Make sure you keep water on hand and accessible throughout the day.

7. Get the blood flowing

Exercise is a key element to reducing stress and improving mood. Even if it’s hard to go to the gym on a busy work week, try adding small amounts of exercise throughout your day, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or a brisk five-minute walk during lunch to get some fresh air and sunlight.

8. Put away the coffee after 4 pm, and get adequate sleep at night

Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep at night. Sleep is essential in order to perform well the following day at work and significantly impacts your cognitive performance including memory and attention. Not getting enough sleep can increase anxiety and lowers the threshold for feeling stressed.

 About the Author:

Dr. Marlynn Wei is a board-certified psychiatrist and media consultant in Manhattan, New York and specializes in anxiety, stress, and career management. She uses holistic and integrative approach that includes life-style modifications, meditation/ yoga, and mindfulness. Dr. Wei works with professionals in all areas including finance, law, business, start-ups, and creative fields like film, acting, and fine arts.

The post 8 Ways to Improve Your Focus and Reduce Stress appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Raise your hand if you’ve ever thought about how to turn an internship into a full-time job.

Of course we take internships to learn a ton about the company and get amazing hands-on experience, but we also take them to increase our chances of working for that company after graduation.

In fact, that’s a great reason to take an internship! That’s why we talked to the team at John Deere who shared six ways to increase your odds of getting hired.

Join all the activities.

Alex Graupmann started as a John Deere intern and ultimately landed a job there as a property accountant. His key to standing out as an intern? Getting involved in everything from factory tours to sports leagues. John Deere has so many networking opportunities for interns, so make it a priority to attend, even if you don’t know anyone. It may seem intimidating, but it’s worth it! You’ll get to connect with other interns outside of work, and you might also meet your future manager and get to chat with them in a more casual setting.

Find your niche.

Whether you’re one of a few summer interns or one of many (some John Deere locations have over 100 interns), finding a way to make yourself stand out could increase your odds of getting a job offer. For example, maybe you have a knack for designing PowerPoint presentations and can volunteer your time. Let your skills and interests shine through and you’ll be on the right track.

Soak up as much information as possible.

If you plan to go after a full-time job, you’ll want to use your internship to build as much knowledge as possible. For example, it might help to figure out the intricacies of Excel and other programs you’ll be working closely with. And learn everything you can about the company and your coworkers, too. It’s a great way to show everyone that you’re in it for the long haul.

Figure out what you want. Then share it!

Luciano Moriguchi interned at John Deere and was eventually hired full-time as a Supplier Quality Engineer. His mentor shared this great advice with him that works whether you’re an intern or an employee: “Communicate the experiences you’d like to have and the career path you hope to follow. Once they have that information, your manager, supervisor, or mentor can open doors for you. So be ready before your first day with a few experiences you’re hoping to have.”

Go beyond your own department.

Odds are, you were assigned to a specific group for your internship. But that shouldn’t stop you from exploring everything else that’s going on at the company. Jenny Farmer, an accountant at John Deere who landed a job as an accountant after graduation, used her internship time to learn about John Deere’s different products and business areas. No matter what role you’re going after, understanding how the company operates even before you work there full time can be a huge advantage.

Treat your internship like one big interview.

No pressure, right? Jennifer Gibson, a Supply Management Specialist, shared this advice from her own days as a John Deere intern: “Displaying professionalism, industriousness, and a positive attitude will help you stand out and show that you’re ready to be a full-time professional.”

See yourself at John Deere? They’re hiring now on WayUp for roles like their Environmental Engineering Development Program!

The post Want To Turn Your Internship Into A Full-Time Job? Here Are 6 Ways To Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Tweets, pins, statuses, hashtags, oh my! You’ve probably heard of these things if you have one or more profiles on social media. Because social media has become such a staple in today’s society, more and more employers may be googling you before they even meet you. This is just one of the many reasons why it is a great idea to polish up your online presence, especially if you are in the process of applying for internships, part-time jobs and full-time jobs. Here are a few simple tips on how to get started:

A picture is worth a thousand words

This phrase may sound cliché, but it is completely true, especially when it comes to social media. Anyone can search for your name online. The question is what type of images will pop up when they do? Don’t let an inappropriate picture ruin your chances of landing the internship or job of your dreams. Make sure your privacy settings are secure on all of your social media accounts. This way, you can approve pictures before people can tag you and monitor who adds or follows you.

Be positive!

Everybody knows that one person on Facebook who complains about something every single day. Employers are looking for students who are motivated, enthusiastic problem solvers—not problem starters! Therefore, don’t use social media to vent about your problems, such as a frustrating job or an irritating co-worker. You never know who might read or see that one status or comment you might regret later. If you are angry or upset, find another way to express this emotion rather than posting about it online.

Have a profile on at least one professional social media platform

This is a great way to start using social media to help you network and job search! Sites such as Looksharp, About.Me, LinkedIn and more have several helpful features such as uploading online résumés, searching for jobs and networking with actual employers. These types of social media sites are a great way to start branding yourself as a professional.

Although there are many more, these are just a few simple tips to help clean up your online presence.   Keep in mind that one of the most important points is just to have awareness. Be aware of what you are posting, as well as what others may post on your profile. The bottom line is that most employers will look at your online activity before they meet you in person or even give you an interview.  Make sure you are representing yourself as a professional not only in person but also online.

Finally, although social media is a great tool, don’t underestimate the power of networking in person.  Networking is consistently cited as the number one way to get a job.  You may know someone right now who may help you with an internship or job in the future. Take advantage of career fairs, information sessions, mock interview days and workshops offered through your college or university’s Career Services office. By networking at these events and monitoring your social media platforms, you will be on your way to landing the internship or job you have always wanted.

The post Stop Being Negative: 3 Tips to Polish Your Online Presence appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

We’ve got some news for you: You probably have no idea how much you’re getting paid.

For real.

So, you probably know the exact dollar figure you receive in every paycheck, but that’s only part of it. Consider this: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the average employee benefit package amounts to roughly 30 percent of your compensation.

Think about that for a moment. If your job provides you with benefits like health insurance, then that added value is roughly equivalent to nearly one-third of your entire salary.

And that’s just the start of it. Take recruiters, who receive bonuses based on performance goals. If they routinely hit their numbers, their take-home pay is often significantly higher than their base salary.

To get some more clarity on the topic of paycheck vs. actual pay, we talked to the team at top staffing services firm Apex. They broke down the value of some of their biggest benefits.  

Check out some of their standout ones below, and then click here to learn more about the company and apply for open roles!

1. Incentives for Being Amazing at Your Job

Career growth (and increased earning potential) happens fast at Apex.

Remember how we said that benefits can account for 30 percent of employee compensation? In the kinds of sales and recruiting roles Apex hires for, there are also incentives for closing a deal or efficiently bringing in quality candidates.

Translation: You get rewarded monetarily for hustling at work. Sign us up.

2. Your Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

When you sign up for insurance through your company, the amount you put toward the plan is just a fraction of what your employer actually pays for you to get that coverage. That adds up to thousands of dollars saved every single year.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO WORK AT APEX NOW!

3. Paid Days Off for Your Birthday and to Volunteer

If you work five days a week for a year, that’s 260 days of work. Now, divide your salary by 260, and you’ve got the amount you’re paid every day you work.

Why did we just make you do math? Because that number is how much Apex will pay you to take the day off and celebrate being a little bit older (and a little bit wiser).

Apex also pays its employees to spend one day a year volunteering for their favorite charities. And that’s all outside of regular paid vacation time and holidays.

4. Part of Your Gym Membership

You might already count a gym membership as part of your monthly expenses. But imagine how much you’d get back if your company helped pay for that time you spend raising your heart rate.

Apex reimburses its employees $20 per month for their gym memberships. When you add that up, it comes out to $240 a year.

Just think of all the protein shakes (or new workout clothes) you can buy with that money in your pocket.

APPLY TO WORK AT APEX NOW!

5. Tuition Reimbursement

Whether you’re working toward a degree or taking extra courses in your field, this is an amazing perk across the board.

Here’s how it works: You pay for undergrad-level, grad-level, or other classes for continuing education, and your company foots the bill for either all or part of what you spent.

Depending on the reimbursement program, this perk can easily amount to thousands of dollars every year.

Suddenly feeling like a million bucks? Apex is hiring, so explore their open positions on WayUp now!

Apex Systems and Apex Life Sciences are top leaders in the staffing industry. Apex delivers the most talented and qualified professionals for temporary and permanent placements with clients in all major industries.

The post Here’s How To Figure Out How Much Your Job Actually Pays You (Trust Us, You Don’t Know) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

This article was adapted from the blog post “Seven Habits for Success in the Workplace of the Future.” You can read the full text here.

The way we work is changing. From the sheer number of tools we have for communicating with people inside and outside the office to the idea of working remotely becoming more and more commonplace, things look a lot different now than they did when your parents started their first jobs. And it’s bound to change even more in the future.

So how do you make sure you’re ready no matter what?

The team at Accenture Federal Services is accustomed to thinking one (and often many) steps ahead. So to help you succeed no matter how much the way we work changes, their recruiting team shared five things they want you to know.

APPLY TO WORK AT ACCENTURE FEDERAL SERVICES

1. How you communicate is important.

Depending on the person we’re communicating with, we might text, call, email, send a message on social media, or have a conversation in person. And those are just a few basic options. We’re not just faced with an endless number of ways to communicate; we’re also connected at all times.

But here’s one skill that’s timeless: understanding whom you’re communicating with, and the most efficient, clear, and authentic way to communicate with them. Will you get more done if you talk to a coworker in person for five minutes, rather than messaging them on a chat app? Will your client be more likely to remember your message if you email them a clear list of next steps instead of calling? Figure these things out, and you’ll be well on your way.

2. Don’t let a flexible work environment get the best of you.

Whether you work in a traditional office, from your kitchen table, on-site for a client, or at the local coffee shop, each setting comes with its own challenges and benefits. No matter the work environment, it’s important to set boundaries so you stay focused and get through your to-do list.

If you work from home, create a dedicated office space that’s set up for productivity (the couch might be tempting, but you probably associate it with relaxing after a long day). If your job has you on the go all the time, make sure you have everything you need so work isn’t interrupted—like chargers for all your devices and a mobile hotspot in case WiFi is scarce.

APPLY TO WORK AT ACCENTURE FEDERAL SERVICES

3. Know when to disconnect.

There’s a fine line between using technology to be more efficient and over-using it because it’s so easy to access. Depending on the expectations of your specific job, set specific times of the day (an hour before bed) or scenarios (out to dinner with friends) when you push work-related things to the back of your mind and avoid checking email on your phone. Taking a break lets you relax and clear your head, so you’ll feel more refreshed when you do return to those emails.

4. Never stop learning.

You’ll probably reach a point when you’re very comfortable with the responsibilities at your job. But that’s not the time to sit back and relax. Instead, read up on the latest business or tech trends, follow blogs or social media accounts that cover your industry, and subscribe to a relevant newsletter or two. Want to really gain an advantage? There are plenty of free online courses and seminars that’ll prepare you to be even better at your job in the future than you are right now.

5. Keep an open mind and embrace change.

In every field—and especially if you’re working in technology—the best way to keep up is to view changes as opportunities, rather than challenges. The tools your team uses, the projects you work on, and even the structure of your team may change multiple times. You might even collaborate with other teams or companies to get the job done. No matter how much your environment changes, the best thing you can do is stay flexible and soak up as much knowledge as possible from each new experience.

Ready to join a team that’s already taking on the future of work? Accenture Federal Services is hiring now! Check out their open jobs on WayUp!

Accenture Federal Services has served every cabinet-level department and 30 of the largest federal organizations. Accenture Federal Services transforms bold ideas into breakthrough outcomes for clients at defense, intelligence, public safety, civilian and military health organizations.

The post Want to be Great at Your Job? Then You Need to Forget About It (Sometimes) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Now that the holidays are behind us and January is in full swing, we wanted to share seven things that every college student should do this year according to WayUp’s CEO and Co-Founder, Liz Wessel.

These seven things will help you learn about yourself, make lifelong connections, advance your career, and, have fun while doing it!

Want a quick recap of Liz’s tips? Read on below, or watch Liz’s TED Talk here:

1. Send at least one cold email. 

Try emailing one of your role models, or someone in an industry that you want to learn more about. Make sure to include in your first line that you’re a college student!

2. Befriend five people you would “bet on.”

You’re surrounded by thousands of brilliant minds at college. Take advantage of this, and make lasting connections during your time on campus.

3. Take a class that teaches a practical skill.

Taking one “practical skill” class (such as computer science, writing, negotiation, etc.) will help you tremendously when you start working full-time.

4. Start something.

Start a club, a business, a blog…anything! It’s an excellent opportunity to get experience with project management.

5. Find “the” professor.

Go out there and find the professor who will change your life or make a class truly unforgettable.

6. Go on an adventure.

Travel. It is a great opportunity to figure out where your comfort zone is (and, there’s no such thing as spring or summer break after college!)

7. Get work experience.

This is the time where you should figure out what you love doing, and what you hate doing. What you are good at, and what you are bad at.

The bottom line? Don’t be afraid to try new experiences in 2018!

The post 7 Things Every College Student Must Do in 2018 appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

When most people think of a career in consulting, one thing comes to mind: lots of travel. Spending so much time on planes, trains, and in cars sounds like a dream to some of us. For others? Not so much.

Thankfully, professional services organization Ernst & Young LLP (EY) has an answer for those recent grads who’d prefer to stay in one location: Service Delivery Centers (or SDCs for short). At these innovation hubs, analysts work with international teams to deliver results for EY clients, similar to the way a team in any other EY location would—minus the travel and with a few other small differences.

We talked to two employees in the Jacksonville, Florida SDC—Tina, an Associate Analyst II and Joe, an Analyst—to get their take on what it’s like to work there. Here’s what they had to say.

First thing’s first. What do you do at the Service Delivery Center?
Tina: I work in the financial crimes compliance part of the SDC. Banks will hire EY to help with projects like transaction monitoring, customer remediation, and document remediation. Since I started about a year ago, I’ve been working on transaction monitoring for a client, investigating scenarios that appear to be money laundering.

Joe: I’ve had a little bit of a different experience than Tina. I’ve been here just about a year and a half and have worked on three different clients. So far, I’ve worked on sanction screening, document remediation, and transaction monitoring projects.

How does the SDC compare to a more traditional consulting environment?
Joe: A lot of our work is pretty similar to traditional advisory folks. However, you’re not traveling Monday through Thursday, which was very attractive to me. If you were a traditional Advisor, you would be traveling and going on-site to clients. One other thing that stood out to me here is how different your day can be. Sometimes you come in and you think you’re going to be working on a certain type of alert or team, and I’ve come in and been pulled in to help with a pressing project. I love not knowing how my day will turn out.

Tina: It really is a lifestyle difference for me. The best part of the SDC is that we’re all working together and have the same goal. It’s a very healthy work-life balance.

Joe: On Tina’s team, some people come in at 7am and leave between 3 and 4pm, where I like to come in a bit later and I’ll be here til 5 or 6pm. Because we’re not on client sites, we have the ability to be a little more flexible, which I know a lot of people here enjoy.

What does EY do to help new SDC employees succeed?
Tina: Everyone that starts at EY goes to a “Welcome to EY” event to learn about the company as a whole. With the SDC specifically, before you join, you’re assigned a peer advisor at the office who can answer any of your questions.

Joe: We also have multiple classes and a dedicated Learning Leader in our office who’s in charge of developing different classes. We also just did an Excel training class here, where EY flew in a trainer from our New York office to teach the class.

How have you grown since joining the SDC?
Tina: I started almost a year ago, and since then I’ve had several opportunities to go beyond my projects. I have a recruiting position in the Advancing Women Executives community here, and Joe and I are on a committee that plans networking and recruiting events. I’ve also been able to go on campus for recruiting. If you lead with your work and tell your managers that you’re interested in something, usually they’ll help you do it.

Joe: There are really so many different ways you can get involved in the SDC besides your work—though your project work always comes first. For example, I like to understand the metrics and engagement economics with a project. I made it known to my manager that I’d really like to understand how a project is run from a budget perspective and the first thing she did was help me sit down with a senior manager. They showed me exactly how to do a budget and run a project from a money perspective.

What’s your best advice for landing a job at EY’s SDC?
Tina: This may sound cheesy, but the most important thing is to really be yourself. Show that you’re humble and ready to work hard. We also love to see how you can make things more efficient and that you’re skilled at time management. For my interview, I played water polo in school and I was on the executive board of my team. I used that to show that I had leadership experience.

Joe: One of the biggest things our recruiters look at is whether you’ve worked on a team before. Whether it’s a project at school or a leadership role for an extracurricular, highlight that experience. Specifically within the SDC, we never work by ourselves, so that’s important. Also, some people hear terms like “financial crimes compliance” and think they’re not qualified because they don’t have a banking background. Don’t worry about that. EY really has a diverse group of people here from all different backgrounds and all different majors, and that’s what makes this office thrive. When you come here, they give you all the tools to be successful.

Any final thoughts on why a recent college grad should work at the SDC?
Joe: It really feels like you’re building every project from the ground up with help from leadership. Everyone comes together to build something out of nothing together, which I never would have expected from such a big company.

Tina: What I’m doing today, I wasn’t doing three months ago. What I was doing three months ago, I wasn’t doing six months ago. The mentorship here is amazing. We have all-hands meetings where you can just go up to partners, introduce yourself, and have a conversation. If I have a goal for my career, I feel like I can go to people and get advice on getting there.

See yourself at one of EY’s Service Delivery Centers? They’re hiring now! Head over to WayUp to explore open positions and apply!

The post How to Work in Consulting—Without Traveling all the Time appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Recently, we teamed up with three former OppenheimerFunds interns who shared what it’s like to work for the global asset management firm. Today’s post is from Ayowole Ogunleye who graduated from Colorado School of Mines with a degree in Petroleum Engineering. This summer, Ayowole was an intern on the Robotics Processing Automation team in OppenheimerFunds’ Denver office. Here’s what she had to say about her experience.

I wish I realized earlier on in my internship that my voice could be heard. I’ve had other internships at companies where interns were not taken too seriously. Because of this, when I started working at OppenheimerFunds, I would talk to my manager before I did anything (even send an email) to make sure I wasn’t crossing boundaries.

Then, my manager went away for a week. I had to step up and speak up to get things done—without asking for approval. When my manager returned, he was impressed with my work and encouraged me to let my voice be heard. I told him about my initial fears and he helped me realize that I shouldn’t let them hold me back from being productive.

That wasn’t the only thing I learned during my internship. I also took away valuable lessons about leadership, collaboration and the value of transparency—and the basics of applying robotics processing automation!

At Oppenheimer, collaboration is everywhere. We have several meetings over conference calls to make sure everyone is involved and can ask questions, no matter where they are. We also have stand-up meetings to give updates on current processes and keep each other accountable.

And even though I was not a leader of a team, I learned a great deal from my manager and other senior colleagues. One aspect of leadership I’ll take with me is the importance of demonstrating humility by providing perspective, not judgment. I’ve seen this in action on my team and I will definitely bring it with me wherever I go next.

Want to start your career at OppenheimerFunds? Head over to WayUp to explore open positions—like this Cybersecurity Co-Op—now!

The post The Surprising Thing I Learned When My Manager Went on Vacation for a Week appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

The act of networking can happen in any place, at any time and under just about any circumstance. From big-time events made specifically for this type of relationship building or in the smallest and least typical moments in life, you might find a chance to reach out, shake a hand and potentially cause a chain of reactions which can lead to the career breakthrough or collaboration you’ve always dreamed of.

No matter what the chances are, here are a few opportunities you might have overlooked where genuine and beneficial relationships can be made.

1. Your Current Job 

Let’s say you had to take a server job at a local burger joint or pick up the night shift at your school’s library; no matter what it is you’re currently doing to pay your bills and keep your fridge full, there is a networking opportunity available to you!

There are plenty of supervisors and managers who are willing to connect students who work hard for them with perhaps professional and even personal connections of their own. Even if all you manage to receive is a stellar letter of reference, that will take you one step closer towards potentially fulfilling the career of your dreams. Don’t let the rough shifts and maybe uninteresting tasks fool you otherwise.

2. “Meet & Greet” Events

There are plenty of events hosted by your school and local organizations with the purpose of bringing all kinds of like-minded individuals all under one roof. That’s where you should be, in the panel discussions hosted by your department chair or at the rally where important social issues are being discussed. That is where you are going to find people who have the same passion, whether it’s biological sciences or climate control. Grab a planner and take note of these days lest you miss out on some fantastic “matches!”

3. Your Social Media Networks

Use your social media accounts for more than just sharing memes and commenting on each other’s selfies. There are millions of companies right now in every field and industry in the world waiting to hear from you. Send a tweet to your all-time Wall Street role model or comment on a reporter’s article, asking an important question that shares a fresh point-of-view. Participate in weekly Twitter chats or in Facebook groups, and watch as the right people come along, willing to connect with you and discuss your favorite topics further, leading to the kind of constructive and inspirational relationships your network should be made out of.

4. Daily Commutes

If you take the train or bus (or even walk) to travel around, you are bound to eventually notice familiar faces going in your same direction, especially if you’re doing this multiple days around the same time.

Yes, there’s the age-old belief implanted in us as children of “not talking to strangers”, but come on; these are your co-workers, classmates, neighbors, you name it. Strike up a conversation with them while you’re waiting for a bus or for the street sign to say “walk.” If you’re seeing them frequently enough, chances are they’ve been noticing you too. Get to know your commute buddies better, small moments at a time, and eventually, you just might create a relationship that can carry beyond what would be your typical walk or train ride.

5. Your Local Newspaper Or Blog

This is not an opportunity reserved for just for established writers and editors! There are plenty of college-related publications and blogs that are always looking for the next voice of your generation.

Not only is this a fantastic chance to share your point-of-views with your community and age-group, but you will also find yourself quickly being established as an authority on whatever it is you’re writing about. This can easily lead to readers and fans to remember your name as someone who is driven and in love with a cause or industry, making you a point of contact for anyone seeking to further the conversation or offer you an opportunity to discuss the topic in other venues and forms. Sometimes networking isn’t about who you know, but about who knows you instead.

Remember, networking is all about creating valuable relationships, which can hopefully last a long time and benefit both sides in your quest to live your ideal life. Take any chance you get to talk to someone about your major, your aspirations or what you’re passionate about! Use the unexpected and the overlooked moments in your college life to set up the future you’ve always wanted.

The post 5 Networking Opportunities You Never Realized You Were Missing Out On appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Back in October, I wrote a piece for WayUp about prioritizing your needs in your job search. One of the five tips I offered was to view your next role as a one- or two-year commitment. I shared that one of the most overwhelming aspects of a job search can be perceiving that whatever decision we make will last for years or for our entire lives. We put a tremendous amount of pressure on the decisions we believe will shape us, our success, and our experience of ourselves and the world around us.

This pressure can influence our decision or skew our priorities. Pressure, in this case and many others, can lead us to feel trapped.

To relieve some of that pressure, let’s delve deeper into six freedoms that come with a one- or two-year plan. I call this short-term vision.

1. Freedom not to know the long-term answers
At 17 or 18, often sooner, we are expected to answer the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” This may also sound like, “What is your major?” or, “Do you have an internship this summer?”

Occasionally, we have a friend, roommate, or loved one who is on a laser-focused mission. This person knows exactly what the next 15 years looks like, broken down into digestible, action-oriented steps.

This person is not the norm. More often, you have a range of interests. You haven’t yet had the opportunity to try them all in a professional setting. You haven’t yet been exposed to the variety of ways in which you can employ your many passions and skills.

If you commit to a one- or two-year plan, the answer to “What do you want to be when you grow up?” can be “I don’t know.” Because you don’t have to know. Because, despite the many stressors and decisions that come with technology and a wealth of information, we are experiencing a transition in career trajectory. We do not know what the next 1, 5, or 10 years will bring. Even if you had a plan for your future, you would very likely need to adjust it.

When you create a vision for the next year or two years, your answer can revolve around what you are doing now. What are your goals for the next 12 months? Why?

2. Freedom to try something new
The question that often follows an inevitable “I don’t know” response to “What do you want to be when you grow up?” is “Well, what are you good at?”

This question is not obsolete. You may encounter much insight by exploring what you are good at. Often, you are good at something because you have prioritized learning more about it, or you practice it often because it brings you joy.

However, just because you are good at something, does not necessitate that you are passionate about it. You may be a very talented mathematician but hate formulas.

When we were expected to work in one place for a lifetime, and to advance through a hierarchy, it made sense to evaluate what skills of ours stood out most among the others.

When you have a one- or two-year plan, you have the freedom to challenge yourself. You have the freedom to try something new.

Say you are the talented mathematician mentioned above. You are 24 and have been working two years in your current math-focused, office-based job. You find that the best part of your day is when you have an opportunity to answer others’ math-related questions. You wonder what it would be like to teach.

With a one- or two-year plan, you can experiment. Say you volunteer as a teacher for one or two years. At 26, you have a chance to return to an office-based job, having lost nothing, or, perhaps, you have discovered a new trajectory for yourself, which creates more opportunities for the best parts of your day, and reduces the worst.

3. Freedom to explore the next level of your current skills
Say, unlike the mathematician above, you are satisfied with your current work. However, you are beginning to feel comfortable. Perhaps a little too comfortable. You wonder what the next chapter of your professional trajectory looks like, but you don’t want to transition to another place of work.

With your one- or two-year plan, you can pencil additional learning into your routine. Perhaps you are an engineer and you code in three languages. Over one or two years, you may like to learn a fourth. For one evening or one weekend afternoon per week, during your short-term vision, you take an online course or join a coding community and learn with a team. That fourth language may open doors for you, either in your current role, in a more senior role at your current company, or at a new company entirely.

4. Freedom to fail
Even reading the word “fail” may tighten some knots in your stomach. As hinted in the anecdotes above, having a one- or two-year plan affords you an opportunity to fail with limited risk.

Either the mathematician or the engineer above may try teaching, or the fourth language, and fail. They may hate it. They may not be very good at it. After the 12 or 24 months, they will have tried something new, grown as a person, familiarized with new and different sides of their personal and professional personalities, and in the end, found themselves in the same position. A mere one or two years older, the only loss is time.

Ekaterina Walter, a contributor at Forbes and a powerful leader, spoke in a Ted Talk about failure and shared 30 inspiring quotes with Forbes here. One that speaks to me is from Ellen DeGeneres, who said, “When you take risks you learn that there will be times when you succeed and there will be times when you fail, and both are equally important.”

As mentioned above, we are in a professional age where we transition between various roles and places of work. What matters more than age in job applications is experience, resilience, self-awareness about your strengths and weaknesses, and willingness to try. What matters most is not whether you fail, but how you react when you inevitably fail, and how you go about bouncing back.

5. Freedom to familiarize with yourself
Each and every moment, day, and year, we change. There is no possible way we can know at 18 who we will be and what we will want at 65.

With a one- or two-year plan, you can ask yourself, “What am I most curious about right now?”

What do you want to learn more about? What new skills can complement your current role? What new roles do you find your mind wandering to between tasks?

Maybe your work life is relatively stable right now. What inspires your curiosity outside of work? Have you been wanting to read more but finding the time is the challenge? Have you been meaning to change your relationship with food but are finding yourself at a loss of a reliable resource or guide?

Perhaps—and this can be the scariest of all—you feel a gnawing sense of wanting something different, but you do not know what you want, what inspires you, or what you’d like to change.

In this case, your one- or two-year plan can be to challenge yourself to find out. Test the waters. Go to meet-ups or new classes. Join a book club.

One of the best resources for familiarizing with yourself can be therapy. Build this relationship to learn more about your internal world. Ask yourself difficult, thought-provoking questions. Realize how your past and present are impacting your perspective. Which aspects would you like to hold on to, and which would you prefer to let go?

6. Freedom to write the next chapter
After all, the one- or two-year plan is finite. Break down your goals into measurable chunks. Begin with chunks you can comfortably achieve and work up to goals that are more challenging, or more of a reach. Celebrate your wins and lean into your losses. With both, you will learn a tremendous amount.

This post may so far feel over simplified. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge that change is hard. Setting and achieving goals takes diligence and determination. Blood, sweat, and tears is not a shallow expression.

I encourage you to seek and accept support where and when you can. Your first task is to trust and understand you have the answers within yourself. Your next task is to build an army of supporters around you who will remind you when you need it how brilliant you truly are, just as you are.

As the one or two years come to a close, reflect on where and who you were when you embarked on your short-term vision. Explore which aspects of your journey have changed. And finally, of course, the journey continues. Write your next chapter.

Alyssa Petersel, Founder and CEO of My Wellbeing and author of Somehow I Am Different, graduated Northwestern University in 2013, New York University in 2017 with her Master’s in Social Work, and The Writers’ Institute at CUNY Graduate Center in 2017 with certification in creative nonfiction writing. Alyssa now lives in Brooklyn and enjoys coffee, community, and social justice. Alyssa is happy to help you find your therapist through My Wellbeing, or happy to work with you as a therapist at RevitaLife Therapy.

The post 6 Reasons You Shouldn’t Plan Too Far Ahead in Your Career appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

This post originally appeared on Society of Grownups. 

I’m a student. How can I stick to a budget and still have a social life?

Here at Society of Grownups, we often hear from students who want to budget responsibly. And kudos to them—it’s tempting to take that big initial check of grants and loans, the available line on a new credit card, and the funds from a work-study job right to Amazon, the mall, or a pub.

Savvy Grownups know that resisting those initial temptations can go far, money-wise, and that smart financial decisions, starting now, can really pay off in both the short- and long term.

It’s not all willpower, however: Ariel Anderson, one of our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, has tips for school-going Grownups who need a little help with budgeting.

Prioritize and Plan
Decide what’s important—prioritize goals, and how soon you’d like to achieve them. Then take a look at where you’ve been spending. Does it match your goals?

Over time, you want to build good spending habits, and sticking to a plan is the way to get there. Here’s how to get started:

1. Jot down every asset. (It may not be much, but don’t get discouraged.) Then, write down everything owed.
2. Determine earnings: What’s coming in? Use a monthly schedule to start tracking.
3. Calculate expenses: What’s outgoing each month?

Then, look ahead.

“Consider how much you earn, owe, and spend on a monthly basis. How much do you have and how long does it have to last?” says Anderson. “Then, take a deeper look and bucket your expenses into wants and needs.  Think of everything—school supplies, transportation costs, dining out from time to time—and see if you can identify any areas to cut out in order to find some wiggle room.”

If your cash flow is negative, get creative about cutting your expenses. Renegotiate your cable contract or share a Netflix account with your best friend. Price shop for groceries instead of accepting the mark-ups at the local convenience store. Maybe even opt for a roommate or cheaper apartment to lower your rent. There are many ways, both big and small, to positively impact on your bottom line. On the flip side, look into getting a side hustle for when you’re not studying. Even a few hours a week will bring in some extra cash!

Embrace the Student Lifestyle
It pays to be aware, and to say no. Resist peer pressure! You don’t need to do every social activity as your friends. To reduce mindless spending, pick and choose only those activities that appeal most to you.

Take advantage of everything you have access to. “Tuition and activity fees often cover a wide range of items, including meal plans, library access, printing services, and gym memberships,” says Anderson. “You already paid for these things, so you might as well use them. And always take advantage of free or low-cost events on campus or around your community. There are tons! For example, I went to college in Boston, and the Boston Public Library gives out free museum passes. Get your friends involved and you’ve found a free social activity.”

Avoid overspending by setting aside money in advance, say $50 at the beginning of the month for coffee. Take advantage of prepaid cards or apps, and once you run out in a given month, it’s done.

Guard your credit card! Be mindful of when you use it and how—and make sure you pay your monthly bill on time.

“Be careful about using your credit card at the bar or opening a tab,” Anderson says. “Instead, take a certain amount of cash out of an ATM and consider that your budget for the night. When you run out of cash, you’re done spending for the evening!”

—
Society of Grownups is a learning initiative of MassMutual where millennials can educate themselves on the basics of personal finance through a digital platform of online classes, financial calculators and editorial-based advice from financial advisors and personal finance experts. Building a solid foundation of knowledge in personal finance topics such as saving, investing, and taxes can empower Grownups to take action toward their goals. For more information, visit www.societyofgrownups.com.

Any third-party resources or websites referenced above are not under Society of Grownups control. Society of Grownups cannot guarantee and are not responsible for the accuracy of the resources, websites, or any products or services available through such resources or websites.

While Society of Grownups hopes the information is useful, it’s only intended to provide general education. It’s not legal, tax, or investment advice, and may not apply or be useful to your specific financial situation. If you need recommendations geared to your personal financial situation, schedule time with a financial planner.

The post How to Make a Budget as a College Student appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

It might sound like a feat reserved for just a few, but for Product Specialists at Qualtrics, an opportunity to transform the business can often come up fast. (By the way: in case you haven’t heard of Qualtrics yet, their software allows organizations to manage the four core experiences of business—customer, product, employee, and brand experiences—on one platform). Here’s an inside look at what the Product Specialist role is all about.

Hitting the Ground Running

Product Specialists typically join Qualtrics out of college and spend their first few months learning the software inside and out. This isn’t just training in a classroom, either. After a week and a half at the company, Product Specialists are already on the phone with clients, assisting them with their research and improving their experience with the product.

After that, things get really interesting. A few months into the program, Product Specialists start working with enterprise-level clients and spearhead their own projects. It’s also their job to improve efficiency by streamlining and automating processes. If you’re a Product Specialist, this is your chance to identify gaps and make a lasting (potentially company-wide) impact.

The Chance to Make a Change

You might be wondering: “how much of a lasting impact can a recent college grad actually make?” When we asked the Qualtrics team this question, they shared an amazing story of a former Product Specialist. After a few months on the job (and only a few months out of college), he noticed that the current system his team was using for monitoring calls in the queue wasn’t working as well as it could. For Product Specialists, the faster the customer response time, the better, but their system was slow and difficult to navigate. Ultimately, it was holding the team back from doing their best work.

This Product Specialist knew things had to change, and decided he would be the one to make it happen. So he approached his manager and asked to work on an application that would lead to faster response times and a better customer experience. His manager agreed. Now, his application is displayed on internal TVs across departments. It’s even being expanded to global teams, starting with Dublin and Sydney.

Since he built this application using open source code, current and future Product Specialists can easily add to the application as the business changes. It’s just one example of the almost-immediate impact you can make in this role.

How Do I Know if I’m Qualified to be a Product Specialist?

There’s more than one path to the Product Specialist role at Qualtrics. STEM majors, including biology, chemistry, physics, statistics, math, chemical engineering, and industrial engineering grads tend to be a great fit. Research-heavy majors like economics, psychology, and linguistics can also thrive as Product Specialists. No matter what you majored in, the Qualtrics team says the most qualified applicants are people-oriented and skilled at solving complex problems.

See yourself as a Qualtrics Product Specialist? They’re hiring! Check out their open roles on WayUp.

The post How To Transform An Entire Company 3 Months After Graduating From College appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Going online to shop, catch up with friends, or even to check your bank account probably feels like second nature to you.

Going online to get a college education? Maybe not so much.

But why not? We teamed up with Starbucks—whose Starbucks College Achievement Plan fully reimburses the tuition cost of an online bachelor’s degree program at Arizona State University—to give you the truth behind seven of the most common myths about online learning.

Ready to join thousands of Starbucks partners who are attending ASU? Apply to one (or more) barista roles across the country now!

Barista Application Tip!
Did you know you can submit your application to up to 5 stores at one time? In order to stand out after submitting your application, stop by the store(s) you applied to and introduce yourself to the manager or shift supervisor. Let them know you recently applied and what excites you about the opportunity. If you don’t get a call for an interview within 60 days, you can re-apply to the same or different stores. Good luck!

The post 7 Myths About Online Learning That Need To Go appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Recently, we teamed up with former OppenheimerFunds interns who shared what it’s like to work for the global asset management firm. Today’s post is from Pratima Sherkane, a computer science masters student at University of Colorado Boulder. Last summer, Pratima was a Data Management Analyst intern in OppenheimerFunds’ Denver office. Here’s what she had to say about her experience.

Last summer, I contributed to real-world projects that were both meaningful to me and impactful for the company. It’s given me an understanding of what OppenheimerFunds stands for, and where the company is going in the future.

I’ve been given exposure to some great, intelligent people who mentored me and helped me network. I got a chance to talk to company leaders and team members from different business areas across the organization. Those conversations helped me understand not just the type of work they do, but how that work connects to what I do and the impact it has on the organization as a whole.

Beyond this, our intern group came from a diverse range of backgrounds, which gave us an opportunity to share our experiences and look at things from different perspectives. Because of that, we were able to build relationships with one another that will last well beyond our internships.

The best advice I have for future OppenheimerFunds interns is to be open-minded and always be ready to learn and adapt. And in between work, be sure to socialize and get involved in different groups, programs, and recreational activities because there are so many to take advantage of. If you do that, you’ll get a whole lot out of your internship and make lasting memories in the process.

Want to start your career at OppenheimerFunds? Head over to WayUp to check out open positions and apply! And click here to read more about working at OppenheimerFunds.

The post Intern Diary: A Summer of Connections at OppenheimerFunds appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Each year, in 11 cities across the US, accounting students gather for CohnReznick’s two-day Summer Leadership Program. The best part? You may walk away from the program with a winter or summer internship at CohnReznick (ranked one of the top internship programs in the country by WayUp). Landing an internship there will also up your chance of landing a job at the firm after graduation.

Here’s what happens during those two days:

You’ll learn what it takes to build a successful career in public accounting
Four-hundred current CohnReznick employees attended the last Summer Leadership Program. They represented all career levels at the firm, all the way up to Partners, giving students a one-of-a-kind networking opportunity and a chance to hear about life at a mid-size national accounting firm from the people who experience it every day. You’ll also walk away with a better understanding of the career opportunities CohnReznick offers.

You’ll participate in a leadership skills workshop
At CohnReznick, leadership isn’t just reserved for employees in top roles at the firm. Interns are encouraged to make their voices and ideas heard. On day one of the program, last year’s students were challenged to define what it meant to be a leader by reading quotes from famous leaders and discussing which ones they identified with the most.

… and a communication skills workshop
Whether you’re a student, an intern, or you’ve been working in the same job for decades, there’s always room to communicate better. For the second workshop of the Summer Leadership Program, students were split into groups and given LEGO blocks. Each member of the group had a specific role in the project, challenging students to communicate clearly and effectively to build the best project possible before time was up. At the end of both workshops, CohnReznick employees reviewed the results of each workshop and gave valuable feedback that students would use to help them win a case competition the following day.

You may walk away with a winter or summer internship
Can a two-day event really change your accounting career? The answer is “yes”. No matter what, you’ll walk away with new skills and a better understanding of the accounting industry, but those 400 CohnReznick employees who attend the Summer Leadership Program are also there to identify students that are a great fit for a CohnReznick internship. How many companies offer an opportunity like that?

Last year, over 200 students from 74 schools across the country attended CohnReznick’s Summer Leadership Program in their city. Will you be one of them this year? Head over to WayUp now and apply.

The post Accounting Majors: This Two-Day Summer Leadership Program Could Get You Into a Top Internship Program appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Want to make your love of cooking, trying new restaurants, or growing your own backyard veggies into your career?

It is possible to turn your passion into your job—if you take the right approach.

There are so many incredible professions tied to food that require a variety of skills—opportunities like becoming a social media manager for a consumer food brand, working as a software engineer for a food delivery startup, or making sales for a restaurant supplier. Even Fortune 500 organizations like Unilever (the makers of Ben & Jerry’s and Hellman’s Mayo) offer incredible full-time jobs and internships in marketing, supply chain management, R&D, and more.

No matter the type of role you are applying for, the best way to differentiate yourself from other candidates is to show employers what makes you unique. Most students and grads don’t realize that companies care about who you are as a person, and what makes you, you. It’s not all about your past work experiences!

Check out some of the tips below for what to talk about on the job search, and how you can shape your “personal brand,” to land your dream position in the food industry.

Talk about your leadership experiences.

Strong leadership skills are vital for success in any role, especially in the food industry. Leadership means many different things, but at its core, a leader is someone who can ”guide or direct a group.”

Think through past experiences in which you displayed leadership. Did you lead your group project in your finance class to an A grade? Were you one of the editors of your school’s Spoon U chapter? These are both excellent examples of leadership that show any prospective employer that you can work well within a team, and collaborate towards a common goal.

However, leadership can also be shown in less apparent ways. Perhaps you worked as a nanny in college to make extra money to pay for your books. Or, managed your family’s diner on the weekends to help your parents make ends meet. Both of these examples of leadership show that you take responsibility, and aren’t afraid of hard work.

Make sure to mention your hobbies.

Believe it or not, companies want to know who you are outside of work or the classroom. Employers today are incredibly focused on hiring teams with diverse interests, which you can bring to life through your hobbies.

No matter what your hobbies are, make sure to talk about them to employers…especially if they have to do with food! Do you bake your own desserts with ingredients you source locally? Are you obsessed with reading biographies of famous chefs? Or, perhaps you binge watch Chef’s Table on Netflix!

Pro tip: By sharing your hobbies, you might even find you have something extremely rare in common with the person who is interviewing you!

Show off your social media presence.

Finally, social media is not just a place for tagging friends in memes and posting pictures from a recent formal. Social media provides an excellent opportunity to brand yourself professionally and curate the image you want others to see of you online.

Maybe it starts with posting about some of the hobbies mentioned above on your channels. Or, perhaps you can create a separate set of handles to feature the delicious foods that you cook, or, the adventurous dishes you try wherever you eat out. Many employers (particularly in creative fields) are excited when applicants show who they are online in a professional but colorful way.

Don’t be afraid to make your social media presence a part of your next professional conversation. Just make sure to curate the image online that you want them to see.

So, start utilizing your leadership, hobbies, and social media presence to help you form your personal brand. In doing so, you’ll be able to convey what you’re passionate about and demonstrate your value in a way that will make you an even more desirable hire to any employer!

The post Want To Land Your Dream Job In The Food Industry? Take These Steps To Stand Out In The Process appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

True or false? Putting in a ton of overtime is the only way to prove yourself and have a successful career.

When you’re just starting out, it might feel like you need to work nights and weekends to prove yourself, but one major retailer says that isn’t true. In fact, it’s one of many ways TJX Companies goes against the status quo, whether you join the company in merchandising, IT, finance, or any other department. Since TJX is focused on having associates grow their career there, they put a strong emphasis on building relationships and asking questions—not working around the clock.

Here are a few other ways this Fortune 100 company isn’t your average place to build a career:

Reason 1: The Chance to Reach Millions of People
Talk about a job that has a major impact: TJX is the company behind brands like T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, HomeSense, and Sierra Trading Post, and they have a worldwide presence with 3,800 stores across nine countries. No matter what department you join, you’ll have a hand in shaping the shopping experience for customers across the world.

Reason 2: Impressive Career Mobility
Let’s say you start out in merchandising. After a year, you realize that a role on the recruiting team is a better fit. A year after that, a new role opens up on the merchandising side that catches your eye and you make the switch back. At TJX, there are countless stories of associates who’ve explored different career paths at the company. You really are encouraged to explore which path (or paths) make the most sense for your career ambitions. It’s one of the reasons associates who join TJX stay there for a long time.

Reason 3: Opportunities for Career Advancement
You don’t have to move around at the company to stay challenged and get exposure to new opportunities. TJX prioritizes hiring stand-out interns to work for the company full-time after graduation, and looks promote internal associates whenever possible, instead of externally hiring for open roles. Want proof? 35 percent of the company’s global managerial team worked their way up to leadership roles after more than a decade with the company.

Reason 4: A Fast-Paced Environment
If you join the Merchandising Development Program, you could be shipping up to $1 million worth of products within your first two weeks on the job (after completing a six-week training session). That’s because TJX encourages each merchandising associate to approach their work like they’re running their own business—a business that turns its inventory 12 to 16 times a year, which is way more than you’ll find at the average retailer. And since everyone at the company contributes to building a great customer experience, you’ll feel that speed even if you work in departments like IT and finance.

Reason 5: Genuine Connections With Your Coworkers
These days, there are a million ways to communicate with our coworkers, but nothing quite beats face-to-face meetings. We’re not sure how TJX accomplished it, but they’ve created a culture where in-person conversations are much more common than online ones. During those meetings, associates are encouraged to take risks and test out new ideas. Maybe that’s why TJX has such a bright future within the retail space.

Ready to start your career at TJX Companies? They’re hiring now! Head over to WayUp and apply.

The post This Major Retailer Doesn’t Want You to Spend all Your Time Working appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Less than six months after joining Gates as a Rotational Engineer, Luke project managed a team of 40 employees across 10 different countries.

How did he end up with so much responsibility so early in his career? Read on for an inside look at the Gates Rotational Engineering Program and the incredible opportunities Luke—who’s now an Applications Engineer—experienced because of it.

Why engineering?
In short, I wanted a challenge, and I wanted to make products that improve lives.

Why Gates?
I’ve worked at other companies that strictly focus on one area of manufacturing like automotive or oil and gas. As I dove into what Gates is about, what drew me in was the global aspect of the work and the diverse markets they work in. I traveled to Japan last week. Next week, I’ll be in Scotland and Germany.

How would you describe the Rotational Engineering Program to someone who’s never heard of it?
The two-year program focuses on exposure [to different career possibilities at Gates]. It introduces you to things you’d never get to see if you were hired directly into a specific role. You get a robust understanding of everything from development to sales and have a chance to figure out how it all ties together. I also moved four times over the course of the program.

What makes the program so valuable?
The ability to collaborate with everyone at Gates. Because of the Rotational Engineering Program, I can work with sales, operations, and development teams and be completely comfortable in all of those scenarios.

How did you get such a big project management responsibility early in your career?
I’ve already lead several international projects. The first one happened because I built a relationship with a VP in the operations department. I joined Gates in June 2015. In November 2015 this VP was launching a team for a global mitigation project but needed more resources to make it successful. Because of that connection, I was able to project manage 40 people from 10 different countries. If you’re ambitious and proactive, you’ll get these types of opportunities at Gates.

Fill in the blank: a recent college grad should apply to the Gates Rotational Program if _______.
They’re independent, ambitious, adaptable, and want to make a difference. It’s great for young engineers who are full of energy and want to do big things. This job was the first time I saw the global impact of my work. Something you’re working on in Detroit has the potential to grow into a project that could have an impact on people in Europe, Southeast Asia, and beyond.

Most memorable day at Gates?
One of the products Gates creates is a belt drive system for bicycles. Our Chief Marketing Officer had the idea to stage a “Buildorama” charity bike-building event during Velorama, Denver’s annual music festival and bike race. The company purchased 50 Gates Carbon Drive belt-equipped bikes and Gates employees worked together to assemble them. When we were done, the company presented them to 7th grade students from a low-income charter school in Denver.

The Gates Rotational Engineering program is an amazing opportunity to get hands-on experience while figuring out exactly where you want to take your engineering career. Ready to get started? They’re hiring now. Head over to WayUp to explore open positions and apply.

The post Five Months After Getting Hired, this Engineer Project Managed a Huge International Project appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Your full-time job calls for 40 hours a week but you find yourself working 50-60. A few days each week, you catch yourself eating what is cheapest or nearest to save time and energy. You skip your workout to meet an upcoming deadline. You realize it’s early November and you don’t know how time is passing so quickly.

Sound familiar?

Professional environments and contemporary culture, particularly in fast-paced urban areas, encourage us to work harder, better, faster, and stronger, often to the detriment of our health and wellbeing.

We assume we are superior to our inanimate tools like cars and machines by overriding our internal cues for resources. However, like the tools around us, the better we are maintained, the better we perform.

I imagine the above comes as no surprise. You may be very interested in integrating more self-care into your routine but are struggling to put ideas to practice.

The following 7 tips will help you initiate and maintain a routine.

1. Listen to the cues

Our physical and mental experiences are interdependent. Your body may be sending you messages about your stress level that indicate you are in need of more self-care.

Some signs include, but are not limited to:

• You have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• You feel fatigued most of the day
• Your appetite is much more intense or much less intense than usual
• You experience either constipation or diarrhea
• Your thoughts race or blur, making it difficult to focus
• You feel irritable or snap easily at co-workers, peers, or strangers
• You feel more impatient than usual
• You feel more nervous than usual, leading to increases in habits like biting your nails, tapping your pen or feet during meetings, or fidgeting
• You smoke, drink, or engage in other substance use more than usual
• You isolate or socialize significantly more or less than usual
• You begin feeling less interested in your daily activities, or wonder what is the point?

Some of these signs are more obvious than others. The first step is to objectively notice how you are feeling or behaving, how intense those feelings or behaviors are, and how often they occur.

Once you become more familiar with noticing these sensations, you may want to create a journal or use an app to track what you are feeling, thinking, and doing. Check out Refinery29’s suggestions for anxiety tracking apps. If you are more interested in tracking your sleep, eating habits, exercise, or other metric, a quick Google search can help you find the mobile tools for your needs.

By following the next two steps, you will create more opportunities to hear and listen to your particular body’s signs on your own.

2. Set aside 10 minutes in the morning

If we are not careful, we can miss what our body is telling us.

Mindfulness can help us hear and understand. Mindfulness is proven to lower stress, increase self-awareness, increase body awareness, improve performance, protect against mental illness, increase focus, improve emotional processing, help regulate emotion, increase compassion, decrease feelings of loneliness, improve sleep, and more.

With practices like meditation and mindfulness, consistency is key. Studies show that 10-15 minutes of mindfulness practice a day will lead to results.

I recommend setting time aside first thing in the morning. This is the time of day you have the most control over. Some people prefer meditating at night, or with a group at a particular time during the week. The time of day matters much less than regular practice.

I meditate first thing in the morning. I set my alarm for 15-20 minutes earlier than I know I need to prepare for the day. I do not check my email or my social accounts. I wake up, turn off my alarm, open Insight Timer (some people prefer Headspace), and meditate for 15 minutes. I then proceed with the rest of my day.

Note: You do not need an app or other materials to meditate. You only need yourself, a relatively comfortable seated position, and a relatively quiet, private space where you will not be externally prompted or disturbed.

You also do not need to be an experienced meditator. Apps like Insight Timer and Headspace provide guided meditations to ease you into the practice. Written and audio resources and in-person meditation groups may also guide you in the beginning of your practice.

Gradually, you will be able to practice independently of guides and tools. This practice will strengthen the communication between your body and your mind. Accordingly, over time, you will be more aware more quickly of the messages (like in Tip 1) that your body may send you about its needs before the needs become emergencies.

3. Invest in yourself

Sometimes, you need an external influence to help facilitate your self-care. The best approach to self-care is to initiate your practices and routines from a place of strength and stability to proactively prevent crisis.

I am a big proponent of therapy. You may have some questions or concerns about therapy. Here are BuzzFeed’s 25 ways therapy can help you.

A good therapist will help you familiarize with the internal roots and workings of your thoughts and behaviors. You will recognize patterns in yourself and better anticipate how your past and present impact you now and in your future. Therapy is not intended to eradicate all sadness or a full range of emotions. Rather, you will build the skills to observe, weather, and accept any storm.

If you are interested in therapy, based in the NY area, and looking for help in finding the right therapist for you, my team at My Wellbeing is happy to help.

If therapy is not your self-care method of choice, perhaps you would benefit from a personal trainer, a dietician, or a coach. As I mentioned in Tip 2, consistency is key. Devote a specific time and place weekly to check in with yourself and assess how you are doing and why.

4. Treat 2-3 workouts a week like work meetings

Regular exercise has been shown to improve your mood and decrease feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress, increase the production of endorphins, assist with weight loss and maintenance, strengthen your muscles and bones, increase your energy levels, reduce risk of chronic disease, improve skin health, improve brain health and memory, improve sleep quality and relaxation, reduce pain, promote a better sex life, and more.

Making time for exercise can feel next to impossible some days.

I recommend finding a time in your schedule that you do not regularly have other conflicts. Say you meet with your supervisor on Tuesday evenings, your co-workers usually go out together on Thursdays, and your friends tend to gather on Friday nights. Commit an hour on Monday and Wednesday night and Saturday afternoon to do something active.

Put recurring events in your calendar. Treat appointments with yourself like work meetings. Incentivize your following through (for example, treat yourself to a smoothie after your workout, or put $5 toward the shoes you are eyeing every time you go to the gym).

5. Cook healthy meals in advance

Greatist outlines 45 surprising benefits of exercising and eating healthy. Among the many, eating well can brighten your mood, protect your bones, strengthen your fertility and immune system, boost your cognitive capacity, improve your skin health, heighten your sex drive, reduce insomnia, soothe sore muscles, give you energy, and reduce your cravings for unhealthy food.

Like working out, finding the time and budget for eating well can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Counterintuitively, eating well can save you time and money.

I recommend preparing a week’s-worth of healthy food at the onset of your week that you can easily reheat at work for lunch or after work for dinner. You can store a majority of this food in your freezer so that it will not spoil. While this may take a few hours upfront, you will eliminate the time barrier for the rest of your week, making eating healthy as easy as grabbing a pastry at the Starbucks downstairs.

Below are 5 healthy recipes from Eating Well you can try:

• Chickpea Curry
• Seared Salmon with Pesto Fettuccine
• Beet & Shrimp Winter Salad
• Chicken & Spiced Apples
• Mozzarella, Basil and Zucchini Frittata

One simple staple of mine is to make a week’s-worth of brown rice and steamed vegetables. I vary my vegetables week by week, depending on what I am in the mood for and what looks good in the produce section of the grocery store or market. I generally season the vegetables with garlic, salt and pepper, and a variety of other spices (not a very scientific recipe). I complement the vegetables with poached eggs, grilled chicken, grilled salmon, or grilled white fish. If I want to go meat-free, I use beans as the primary protein and top with chopped almonds. You can add extra flare with cheese or avocado.

I store 70% of this food in my freezer and prepare 1-3 meals-worth in mason jars or tupperware in my fridge to take with me for lunch for the week.

This saves you time by avoiding long lines and indecision at lunch time. You can use your extra time to connect with a co-worker, eat or take a walk outside, or chip away at the deadline you want to meet.

This saves you money by preparing healthy meals with groceries ahead of time that overall cost less than eating out. The amount you invest in the ingredients of each meal is up to you. You can use your saved money to reward yourself for following through, add an ingredient to your pre-prepared meals that is a little more expensive than usual, or save toward any other goal or investment.

6. Commit to something that brings you joy

Most self-improvement suggestions require an investment of hard work and money. This time, I recommend you commit regularly to something that makes you feel good.

Joy and laughter are medicinal. Medical Daily shares that laughter increases serotonin and endorphins in the brain, replenishes the lungs, relaxes muscles and eases tension in the body, reduces stress hormones in the body, protects the heart, strengthens the immune system, and functions similarly to a really good workout.

Laughter also relieves everyday worry and stress, adds positivity and resilience to life, improved overall happiness and mood, and helps ease worry, anxiety, and fear.

Your go-to joy may be Seinfeld reruns, playing with your dog, going on a date with your partner, catching up with a friend, or listening to music. Whatever it is, counter to what popular culture and professional environments encourage you to believe, investing in joy is not a waste of time. Ensure you have at least 30 minutes of joy on your calendar every week. Work up to at least 30 minutes a day.

7. Try and try again — with patience.

You may not yet know what stress management tools work best for you.

Humans are unique. What works for one does not always work for another. Often, variations to the mold are in store. Moreover, breaking old habits and creating new ones is often harder than we first think.

On average, it takes 66 days to form a new habit. Using the guidance above, choose one change you would like to commit to. Plan to implement that change for 10 weeks. After the 10 weeks, evaluate whether the tactic resonates with you.

Leaning on objective third parties and support systems is helpful during this time. A trusted friend, therapist, or coach can make all the difference in evaluating change, processing your learnings, and holding yourself accountable.

You may find the habit is so natural you have no desire to return to how you were doing things before. Or, you may find the new habit is harder than you realized or does not resonate with you. You may supplement the first choice with an additional shift or try something else entirely.

Throughout the growth process, practice patience with yourself. Old habits are hard to break and new habits are even harder to create. Change is challenging. Moments of joy and celebration may come with moments of frustration or doubt.

Do your best to accept the ride and trust that over time, you will come to better understand your unique set of experiences and needs.

Prioritizing time for self-care in a busy work week is a worthwhile challenge. By following these tips, you’ll be able to focus on your wellbeing and set yourself up for personal and professional success.

Keep in touch

Have a question or a suggestion for maintaining self-care during a busy work week that I did not mention? Leave a comment below, connect with me (@apetersel) or My Wellbeing (Facebook and Instagram: @mywellbeingtherapy and Twitter @findmywellbeing) on social, or reach out to me at alyssa@mywellbeing.us. I look forward to connecting with you soon!

The post 7 Tips for Maintaining Self-Care During a Busy Work Week appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Work experience isn’t the only way to prove your worth. With Veterans Day just around the corner, we wanted to spotlight some of the incredible veterans in our community who are using the skills and experiences they gained during their service to take their careers to the next level. These veterans prove that the military prepares you for professional success.

From learning how to become effective leaders to developing strong communication and interpersonal skills, the veterans we talked to all agreed that their time in the military helped them learn a lot about themselves and about the world at large. As they embark on the next phase of their careers, they’re using these experiences to craft new paths for themselves and to apply their knowledge in different ways.

Andrew Morris, a Marine Corps Infantry Veteran and aspiring social media marketer, also credits his military service with helping him develop skills and interests that he may not have otherwise developed. “It makes you good at soft skills like team management, project management, organization, and communication,” he explains, emphasizing that he developed these skills while learning how to lead his own team and how to communicate effectively with different people across the chain of command.

Now a marketing major at California State University San Marcos, Andrew is passionate about pursuing a career in social media marketing and compares the day-to-day work involved in marketing to his previous work as a Marine. “During my service, when a mission was assigned I had to make sure that everything was in place and I had to tackle problems along the way to get to a final result,” he explains. “Marketing is a lot like that. Checklists are key.” By applying his skills to a new field, Andrew has been able to use a lot of his knowledge about project management to develop the types of campaigns that deliver results to clients.

A former ROTC cadet and current member of the National Guard, Hillary Esposito also emphasizes how important military service has been to her personal and professional development. Referring to her training, she explains that it taught her how to be confident in her decisions and how to be an effective leader. “They’re constantly putting you in environments where you don’t know how to react,” she says. “You find yourself leading people and you have to portray yourself as if you know what you are doing, and then figure it out.”

During her time in the ROTC, Hillary also worked with a medical unit which led to her developing an interest in the medical field. As a result of her experiences, Hillary has decided to pursue a Masters of Health Administration at Rutgers University with the goal of becoming a hospital administrator. Her driving force? A passion for helping others and the desire to do so on a large scale.

Taylor Davis, a former marine and current education major at Salt Lake Community College, explains that military service helped to prepare him for the next phase of his life and his career. “It was an eye-opening experience,” says Taylor, referring to many of the intense moments he encountered during his time in the military, including being involved with the rescue of Captain Phillips and his crew when the captain’s ship, the Maersk Alabama, was hijacked by Somali pirates in 2009.

Now studying to become a special education teacher, Taylor is using the skills he picked up during his military service to develop his career, and credits the Marines with giving him perspective, teaching him to be patient and giving him the skills to mentor others. With two years left before graduation, Taylor is working as a teacher’s aide to get hands-on teaching experience while still in school. Once he graduates, he looks forward to starting his teaching career.

When it comes to military service, individual experiences are as varied as they are in any other field. However, all of the veterans we spoke with had one thing in common: they emphasized how much those experiences had shaped them and helped them to build a diverse skill set that has set them up for success.

The skills that students pick up in the military are incredibly valuable across a number of different fields and roles. Whether you’re a student veteran with little work experience or any student or recent grad with limited professional experience, remember to consider your volunteer work, hobbies and side project to show employers who you are as a person.

The post According To These Student Veterans, The Military Teaches You More Than You May Think appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Recently, we teamed up with three former OppenheimerFunds interns who shared what it’s like to work for the global asset management firm. Today’s post is from Jason Yu, a student at Wesleyan University majoring in Environmental Science and Economics. Jason interned in the Distribution Department of the OppenheimerFunds New York City office. Here’s what he had to say about his favorite project, what he learned, and what’s next.

A Career-Advancing Project

Our final internship presentation involved presenting to our manager, advisor, and co-workers about the future of the asset management industry and the strengths and weaknesses of active and passive management.

This was the coolest project I worked on because it allowed me to gather input from different teams within the company about where the industry is heading and how we can prepare for future technological advancements. Because of this, the project helped me plan my career goals and areas for professional development based on what will provide value in the future. It also helped me figure out where I could see myself excelling within the industry or firm.

Full-Time Responsibilities

Frankly, I believe all the projects I worked on required trusting me with a lot of responsibility since all requests were catered to clients and OppenheimerFunds wouldn’t exist without its clients. On top of this, the projects I completed were the exact same work I would be doing as a full-time employee. I was doing work for household-name clients, and understanding the assets at stake definitely gave me an immense sense of responsibility that I haven’t always had in previous internships.

Planning for What’s Next

This internship helped me realize that I wanted to work with people and it exposed me to what my strengths and areas for improvement are. Ultimately, it was an amazing learning experience as well as a networking opportunity, and the skills I developed will definitely be utilized later in my career.

Want to start your career at OppenheimerFunds? Head over to WayUp to check out open positions and apply! And click here to read more about working at OppenheimerFunds. 

The post My Career-Advancing Summer at OppenheimerFunds appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Raise your hand if you’ve ever fallen behind at a job or internship. It’s a frustrating situation to be in, but it’s also incredibly common—most of us have felt stuck at some point.

That’s why we love Matt’s story. Today, Matt is an Assistant Manager at the global transportation provider Enterprise Rent-A-Car, but there’s more to his story than meets the eye.

Matt first joined Enterprise as an intern. The experience was so rewarding that upon graduation he applied to and landed a spot in the Management Training Program at Enterprise. Matt went into the program feeling like he had a major advantage: his internship taught him a lot about the company and his customer service skills were great. But he didn’t get promoted as quickly as he’d hoped. He even saw newer teammates he mentored get promoted before him.

After a year without a promotion, Matt could have chalked it up to a poor fit and applied to other companies. Plenty of people do that. Here’s what he did instead:

Areas for Improvement

In the Enterprise Management Training Program, success is measured on a mix of sales, customer service, business growth, and employee development called the Matrix. Matt’s scores were off the charts for customer service and employee development, but his sales skills needed some improvement. Matt reached out to his manager for guidance and support, and together they came up with a plan. What happened next transformed Matt’s career.

A Major Change 

Matt and his manager worked closely to identify and improve gaps in his sales skills. Through activities like role-playing sales calls, reviewing basic training lessons, and one-on-one meetings to assess his progress, Matt started dramatically improving. His commitment to improving even got him to the top of the employee scores. One month into his improvement project, he was promoted to Assistant Manager. This summer, he celebrated another major achievement: becoming one of the top Assistant Managers in his area.

A Company-Wide Support System

“The management team here is driven to make sure you’re comfortable doing things the right way and learning the right way,” Matt says. “People have always taken me under their wing here, from area managers down to branch and assistant managers. It’s really a team effort for the customer.”

Because of that level of support, Matt made more progress staying at Enterprise than he would have if he gave up and went to another company. Now, he inspires other new hires to stick with it.

Matt shared a few reminders for anyone who feels like they’re falling behind at work:

1. Once upon a time, even the CEO knew nothing about the company (and probably faced a good deal of challenges at some point). Everyone has to start from the beginning and everyone faces professional setbacks. If you feel like you can’t get ahead, this should help keep things in perspective until you’re back at the top.

2. If you’re having a tough time at work, make it clear to your manager that you’re dedicated to making improvements. Be proactive about finding a solution, and you’ll probably find he or she is happy to help you out.

3. Don’t stop learning and improving once you’ve caught up. If you’re already in the habit of professional development, keep that momentum going. There are always opportunities to keep improving—no matter where you are in your career.

Want to work for a company that’s committed to helping you succeed? Enterprise Rent-A-Car is hiring now, so head over to WayUp and apply!

The post How this Assistant Manager Went from Falling Behind to Being One of the Best Performers on His Team appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

If you’re like most college students and recent grads, then you likely have several social media profiles including Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. But did you know that there’s one profile in particular that employers look for when you apply for a job? We’re talking about a professional profile that outlines your skills, experience and career goals, and one that employers can easily look to if they’re considering hiring you for a role.

At WayUp, we’ve recently launched a new version of our profiles that will help to show off your skills and your personality. Here’s why you should consider filling yours out ASAP.

It will highlight your skills and experience

Unlike your Instagram and Facebook which are mostly dedicated to your friends, hobbies and cute pics of your dog, a professional profile is intended to showcase your skill set and your previous experience. This will help potential employers get a sense of what you can bring to the table and help them determine whether you’ll make a good addition to their team.

It will show off your personality and what makes you unique

Beyond just focusing on your education and experience, a WayUp profile also includes sections designed to highlight other areas of your life, including a place to add a fun fact about yourself and the chance to include your Instagram, YouTube and Github accounts. Filling out these sections is a great way to let employers know that you’re a motivated, passionate and well-rounded person who will not only be an asset to their team, but also a lot of fun to have around the office.

It will help employers determine what you’re looking for

Last but not least, having a professional online profile will give employers a sense of your career goals and your skill set. It will also help them understand how the position you’re applying for fits into your five or 10-year plan. For example, if you’re applying for an entry-level product management role at a startup and your profile highlights your passion for technology and entrepreneurship, they’ll be able to tell that you’re interested in learning about the industry and that you might be looking to start your own company someday.

Having a professional online profile on WayUp is a great way to showcase the things that make you a valuable candidate and an all-around awesome person. Ready to update yours? Sign into your account to get started.

The post Why an Online Profile Will Help You Get Hired appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Did you know that 80% of employers Google you before inviting you in for an interview? In today’s digital world, having a professional presence online is no longer a nice-to-have, but a must-have.

We recently launched new professional profiles to help you put your best foot forward to employers. In addition to highlighting past jobs and internships, these new profiles let you customize a series of modules to feature your YouTube videos, GitHub account, Instagram feed (for photographers, performers, social media mavens, etc.), volunteer and leadership experiences, fun facts, specific coursework, and more.

Ready to get started? Here’s what you need to do to fill out your WayUp profile.

The post How to Create the Perfect WayUp Profile appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Think all jobs in sales are created equal? Think again. Working in sales at any company can be rewarding, but an employer who provides superior training and support will prepare you to be even more successful in the role. 

Enter CDW: This IT solutions company has earned a reputation for its six-week training course that covers what to sell, how to sell, and the tools to help you sell. And once the initial training ends, learning activities, one-on-one coaching, and dedicated support continues to maximize your potential.

There’s a lot we can all learn from CDW’s unique training program. To prove it, we asked CDW coworkers to share their experiences with the company’s training program and how it accelerated their success.

1. With the right tools, you’ll see success faster.

“I had no idea about some of the ways technology could work together, and after leaving CDW’s six-week training program, I was able to have an intelligent conversation about IT,” says Austin, an Account Representative. “A week after leaving the program, I got a call from a customer who needed a simple license renewal, and I was able to help. I would have never known how to help them solve their problem just four weeks prior. It’s pretty mind-blowing.”

2. Taking risks can be the best way to learn—even if it means you might fail.

“Several times throughout the training program, we were faced with challenges that allowed me to build confidence, whether it was a role-play call or a presentation in front of our managers,” says Account Representative Mara. Doing things out of your comfort zone (and taking risks) is the only way to grow—and to become an amazing sales rep.

3. Embrace opportunities to grow your confidence. You were hired because your company believes in you.

“Believe in yourself and your capabilities,” says Michael, a Corporate Account Representative. “It is easy to be intimidated or overwhelmed at first, but [the best response is to] work smarter, not harder. Focus on building and managing relationships and remember to be yourself.”

4. Supportive teammates and extensive resources can help at any stage of the selling cycle.

“Having come from a non-IT background, I was very nervous getting into a Fortune 200 IT Solutions company,” says Sneha, an Account Representative. Thankfully, those nerves didn’t last. Sneha soon discovered just how many people—both inside and outside of the company—were dedicated to helping each new coworker grow. “CDW wants you to succeed, and every coworker knows that success comes when you work as a team.”

5. Prioritizing your day will make even the biggest tasks more manageable.

“In the sales training program, we learn how to use our calendars strategically to make the most of our time here,” says Ryan, an Account Representative. “This practice has made me more organized and more productive.” In other words, don’t just think about what’s on your plate—consider how you’re going to tackle it.

See yourself joining the sales team at CDW? Ryan sums up the experience best:

“Coming into CDW, I had very little knowledge of technology, so having an extensive amount of material to cover seemed overwhelming at first. But in the end, I had technology and sales knowledge I never knew I would have.”

Want to join one of the best sales teams around? CDW is hiring, so explore their open positions on WayUp now!

The post Five Things We Can All Learn From This Company’s Sales Training Program appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

One dilemma that nearly every college student will face is whether or not to live with a roommate. Let’s face it, there are quite a few benefits to living alone. It means more privacy, more control over personal space, and the ability to avoid the experience of a bad roommate.

But with tuition price tags continuing to skyrocket, many students are opting to forego the comforts of living alone to cut back on expenses. Though it may be less than ideal for some, the savings earned from living with a roommate throughout college may have a bigger impact on students’ financial futures than they might expect. Here’s a look at exactly just how valuable a college roommate can be.

Methodology

For this article, we first collected costs of both private and shared dorm rooms across more than 200 college campuses with the highest undergraduate enrollments. We then found average costs of both one bedroom and two bedroom off-campus apartments in those same cities.

The scenarios included in this article are built on several assumptions:

• We assume the student graduates from college in 4 years
• We assume the student spends the first two years of college living in an on-campus dorm and last two years living in an off-campus apartment
• While living in an off-campus apartment, we assume the student has signed a 12-month lease for each of the last two years of college
• We assume that in the instance the student lives with a roommate in a 2 bedroom, off-campus apartment, the lease is split 50:50, so the student is only paying half of the total rent
  Further detail on methodology and calculations are provided under each scenario below.

How much does living with a roommate in college save you?

Living with a roommate can save renters up to $800 per month in some major cities. That’s just short of $10,000 in a year. But what about for college students who have the option to live on or off campus? We took a look at the average amount college students can save by living with a roommate during four years of college.

Next, we took a look at the potential impact that savings like this could have on the financial future of college students.

What’s the value of living with a roommate in college?

We crunched the numbers and found that the money saved by having a roommate has a significant financial impact on students’ lives. Due to rising costs of attending college, more students are taking out student loans to cover the expenses of their education, including the costs of housing. The latest stats show that 44.2 million Americans currently have at least some student loans.

But regardless of how students are financing their education, $15,542 is a huge amount of savings. Even a small percentage of that could have an enormous impact on their financial futures. Here are a few examples.

In a Savings Account

With the budgets of college students being as tight as they are, it can be hard to set a little aside each month in a savings account. In fact, it turns out that saving is a habit that most Americans struggle with, as 34% have nothing at all put away. But the earlier in life you get into the habit of saving, the better off you’ll be.

Of those who are between the ages of 18 and 24 years old, 72% have less than $1,000 stashed away in savings. Meaning when they leave college, they have almost virtually nothing to help them get started to find an apartment, invest in a professional wardrobe, and more.

“The biggest habit a college student can get into is saving a portion of his or her income,” said Derek Hagen of Fireside Financial, “Saving is a powerful habit that will stick with you for life. Your savings habits are a much bigger determinant of your future wealth than the returns on your investments. There are some guidelines out there, such as saving 10 or 15% of your income, but I feel that saving anything will start the process of becoming a saver. Once you are a saver you will naturally want to save as much as you can”.

With that in mind, we took a look at what just 10% of the total average savings would mean for a college student.

For a Down Payment on a Starter Home

As students graduate from college and move on to the next stage in their lives, many are postponing buying a home. In fact, the median age for a first time homebuyer is 31 years old. And despite knowing that owning a home is a more financially sound decision than renting, most Millennials don’t believe they can afford to take on a mortgage.

But even a small percentage of the average total savings from living with a roommate throughout college, such as 10%, could help soon-to-be graduates get a head start on saving up for a down payment on a starter home. For instance, in Pittsburgh, $1,542 is 48% of the average down payment on a starter home. It’s 50% of an average down payment on a starter home in Cleveland and 73% of an average down payment on a starter home in Detroit.

In a

Retirement Investment Account

College students sometimes have a hard time understanding the need to start saving for retirement. After all, they haven’t even truly started their careers yet. Why should they start planning for the end of them?

But those with the foresight to begin investing into a retirement investment account while still in school can take greater advantage of compound interest and have a little extra set aside for their golden years.

In Student Loan Payments

While it might be nice to imagine college students setting aside their savings from living with a roommate, these scenarios are not necessarily realistic for most students. Today, graduates from public universities have an average debt of $25,550 while graduates from private, nonprofit universities have an average debt of $32,200.

Students who are using loans to finance their education should focus their attention on paying back their loans as quickly as possible and preventing interest from capitalizing. Students can minimize the amount they need in loans in the first place by agreeing to live with a roommate throughout their college education. Moreover, with an income, these savings can be used to begin paying back loans while students still attend classes.

For instance, here’s a look at how much a student who will have $39,967 in outstanding loans can have paid off by the time graduation comes around:

It turns out that a college roommate can be quite valuable. College students can save enough money to have a significant impact on their financial futures, as the savings are enough to make a dent in a savings account, an emergency fund, a down payment on a starter home, a retirement investment account, and perhaps most importantly, on student loan payments.

The post Living with a Roommate Can Save Students $15,000 in Total Cost of College Attendance appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

WayUp teamed up with seven Unilever interns who wrote about what it’s like to work for a company whose products are used by 2.5 billion people around the world. We’ll be publishing their stories over the next seven weeks. First up is Jaclyn Marchetta, a student at Manhattan College who interned on the Dove Global Skin Care team.

Ever thought about working or interning for Unilever? Here are four things I learned from my summer internship there:

Say yes.

Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it’s touring a pilot plant, attending a networking event, or presenting to a group of people, take the initiative. Unilever’s internship program allows you to explore many departments, continuously learn, and step outside of your comfort zone.

Meet as many people as you can.

Internships go by much faster than you think. In between working on your final project, be sure to grow your network. Introduce yourself to scientists, managers, and directors. Do not be afraid to initiate the conversation and ask about their experiences and career paths at Unilever.

Bring something to the table.

You’ve received an internship offer and deserve to be there. Be confident and own your accomplishments. Have a presence during meetings and express opinions to your team. New ideas from a fresh mind could lead to innovative solutions. If you cannot think of a creative idea, stand up straight, make eye contact, and ask meaningful questions. And remember to be positive and always have a good attitude.

Be thankful.

Your co-workers understand that you will need help from time to time and are they’re definitely willing to help. However, when someone helps you or takes time out of his or her busy schedule to meet with you, say thank you. Most importantly, remember to pay it forward to future Unilever interns.

Explore job and internship opportunities at Unilever on WayUp! 

The post Intern Diary: Say Yes, Talk to Everyone, And Other Lessons I Learned As A Unilever Intern appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Landing a job offer after your internship might be one of the most rewarding career feelings out there. After all, it’s no easy feat and says a ton about the impression you left after just a few months.

But how do you know if your internship prepared you to be a full-time employee?

These five Dell interns landed jobs there after graduation. Now, they want to share how those internships helped them get ready to take on the next phase of their careers. Read on for five signs you’re ready to go from intern to full-time employee.

1. You Didn’t Just Learn New Skills—You Learned How to Apply Them

No matter how much you learn as an intern, nothing compares to putting what you learned into action. Saint Anselm College grad Jane Bunn landed a job as a Commercial Account Manager after completing Dell’s Inside Sales internship program. She says that getting hands-on experience as an intern made the transition to full-time much smoother. “[As an intern] I learned to navigate a previously daunting corporate America, and how to apply skills I learned in development trainings to communicate effectively with customers,” she says.

2. You Understand How the Business Works

Ali Tyburski works in Digital Strategy and Global Communications at Dell. The American University grad’s career there started when she interned for EMC’s Field Marketing Team, focusing on the federal space (EMC and Dell merged in 2016). “”My experience began with learning how our technology helps to power the US Military and Government,” she says. “After a great first experience as an intern, I took a full-time position within the Marketing Development Program. “I landed in Global Communications, where I’ve contributed to numerous product launches, marketing campaigns, and global events—including the announcement of the largest merger in tech history.”

3. You’re Already Comfortable Sharing Your Ideas

Prateek Mathur earned his MBA from Penn State and now works in Operations Strategy. “At Dell, no question is off limits and no idea is too outrageous,” he says. “If ideas are well thought-out, logically defended, and shown to make business sense, you have the freedom to pursue them. Everyone from interns to VPs are expected to contribute insights and ideas.” During his internship, Prateek saw first-hand how willing managers were to sit down with him to hear his ideas and share feedback. That turned out to be great practice for his full-time role.

4. You Had an Opportunity to Learn from People Across the Company

It’s perfectly fine if you don’t know exactly what you want to do with your career when you’re an intern. After all, the best internships give you the chance to meet people in different roles and discover what you want to do and what you don’t want to do. “In the three short months of my summer internship, I was introduced to multiple finance functions and interacted with people throughout the entire organization,” says Matthew Pelletier, a Bryant University grad who’s now a Corporate Strategy Consultant. It’s that exposure to different jobs within finance that made him excited to return to Dell after graduation.

5. You’ve Built a Professional Support System

Rachel Garlitz was surprised by the level of responsibility she was given when she joined Dell full-time after graduation. She was also 100 percent ready to take on whatever tasks came her way. As an intern, she was part of the Supply Chain Development Program and now works in Global Materials and Global Operations. The Texas A&M grad attributes her smooth transition to full-time to the support she received from her colleagues. “Everyone at Dell—from your peers to the leadership team—is genuinely invested in your success,” she says. “There are ample opportunities to learn, develop, and grow as a young processional.”

A great internship should leave you with so much more than a new line on your resume. It should also challenge you, teach you way more than you’d ever learn from a class or textbook, and leave you feeling more prepared to take on a full-time role in your field after graduation.

Ready to follow in the footsteps of these former interns? Dell is hiring now, so head over to WayUp, explore their open positions, and apply!

The post Five Signs Your Internship Prepared You for a Full-Time Job appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Making a great impression as an intern is all about working hard and adding value to an organization. But how can you go above and beyond during your internship and truly leave your mark on a company?

As part of our National Intern Day celebration this summer, we sat down with the CEOs and managers of some of the country’s biggest companies to find out the things that impress them most about their interns. According to Tonya Lee, a senior associate at EY, being a great intern begins with being proactive and asking good questions. Referring to one of her rockstar interns, she explains that what made him stand out was his enthusiasm and desire to learn. “He was awesome because every time we had some downtime, he was actively seeking out more work,” she explains. In addition to taking initiative, Robert was also curious about his role and not afraid to ask questions about the tasks he was assigned. “When he got a task, he was able to say, ‘Okay great. I understand the task, but WHY am I doing this task?’ That WHY question is a really good question to ask because the task became more clear to him as well as how it fit into the bigger picture.”

For Lee, this type of curiosity is important because it demonstrates an intern’s true passion for their role and a desire to learn as much possible about the business.

Ready to make your mark on a company? Check out our full list of jobs and internships to find the job that’s right for you.

The post How to Make Your Mark as an Intern appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

What if we told you there was a city that actually had it all? Now, what if we told you that city probably isn’t on your current list of top places to work? We’re talking about Denver, Colorado.To get all the details about what makes Denver great, we talked to Jasmine Prasetyo, University of Colorado Boulder grad and Recruiting Coordinator at OppenheimerFunds. Read on, and don’t be surprised if you suddenly feel compelled to buy a one-way ticket to Denver.

1. You Don’t Have to Choose Between City Life and Outdoor Adventures

Culturally, Denver has many of the things a larger city like San Francisco or New York has to offer, says Jasmine. But it also has one big advantage: you can head to the mountains whenever you want. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking and biking are all just a short trip away, and you don’t even need a car to some of the top outdoor destinations—Denver has “ski buses” that specifically travel from the city to the slopes.

 
Photo by: Michael Starkey @starkey__co

2. It’s One of the Healthiest Cities in the Country

This one isn’t so surprising, considering how much time Denver residents spend outdoors. No matter what sport or activity you love, you’re bound to be in good company here. In fact, OppenheimerFunds’ Denver office is surrounded by running and biking trails, and there are even bikes available to rent. Jasmine says it’s pretty common to find coworkers running together before work, after work and during lunch.

3. There’s Always Something Going On

Denver has eight professional sports teams spanning football, soccer, baseball, hockey and basketball, which means you can root for the home team all year ‘round. But sports aren’t the only things going on at arenas in Denver. You can also catch concerts around the city, and at the amazing open-air Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, which was rated “America’s Best Outdoor Amphitheatre” by Rolling Stone. It’s just 15 miles outside of the city.

Photo by: Michael Starkey @starkey__co 

4. The Weather is Better than You Might Expect

A lot of us associate Colorado with snow, snow and… more snow. And while it certainly snows there, Jasmine made it clear that Denver also has plenty of sunshine—which is why it never takes long for that snow to start melting.

5. There’s an Impressive Food Scene

Zagat named Denver #3 on its list of “The 26 Hottest Food Cities” last year. The city also has the second largest amount of breweries and microbreweries per capita than any other state—72 of them as of last year, in fact. Translation: if you’re a foodie, this is the city for you.

6. The Cost of Living is Lower

Budgeting while living in a city is tough, especially when you’re just starting your career. Did you know that, it’s 41 percent less expensive to live in Denver than in New York City? That means you’ll have room in your budget for those sporting events, concerts and dinners out.

Suddenly planning a move to Denver? You’re in luck—OppenheimerFunds is hiring now. See if your future career is waiting for you in Denver (or one of their other office locations).

The post This City Might Be the Perfect Place to Live and Work appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Alyssa Bryant knows how to be a stand-out intern for two reasons:

1. She joined OppenheimerFunds not long after graduating from college, so past internship experiences are still fresh in her mind.
2. She’s now an intern mentor herself.

When Alyssa, a Learning and Development Analyst, was nominated by a colleague to participate in the mentorship program at OppenheimerFunds, she jumped on the opportunity to help her company’s newest team members succeed. As Alyssa puts it, she wanted to make sure all interns learned “the stuff they don’t teach you in college.”

So what are Alyssa’s top tips for students on being a stand-out intern? Read on to find out:

Take Ownership Over Your Internship

As an intern, you’re there to learn as much as possible and get as much experience as you can in a short amount of time. You’re not going to know everything about the company (or your job as an intern) when you walk in the door, and that’s a good thing. Seek out new opportunities to learn and grow instead of waiting for the work to come to you. If you do that, your passion and dedication will be clear.

Work Deliberately

Of course you want to make an amazing impression during your internship, but be careful not to let the quality of your work suffer in the process. Obviously, you don’t want to sit around waiting for your next assignment says Alyssa, but you also don’t want to rush through a project just to check it off your list. Finding that balance is key.

Don’t Pretend to Know the Jargon

At OppenheimerFunds, there can be a lot of industry jargon to decode, but that’s not something unique to financial services—it’s the case in almost every industry out there. Instead of assuming you know what people are talking about when they discuss… say… beta-one investments (or investments that move with the market), do your research. Keep a running list of the terms you don’t know so you can brush up before it gets brought up again. If you still don’t understand after researching, ask! And whatever you do, don’t pretend to know what a term means.

Be Open to Feedback

Who doesn’t love being told they did a great job on a project? The thing is, you’ll learn much more from the things you could have done better. As tough as it can be to hear, asking your internship manager how you can improve is one of the best things you can do for your personal and professional development. Plus, your manager will appreciate your commitment to learning and growing.

As a mentor to OppenheimerFunds interns, Alyssa isn’t just imparting great advice—she says she’s learned a lot from the interns she’s worked with, too. 

The post Interns: Here’s How to Stand Out, Be Productive, and Learn a Ton (According to an Intern Mentor) appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

When it comes to setting up interns and employees for success, not all companies are created equal. In fact, one in particular stands out: Infor. We asked a few team members at Infor how their company helps them succeed. Here’s what they had to say:

A Supportive and Encouraging Environment

Eva Fine, a former Infor intern on the education team and a student at Washington University in St. Louis, says she was always trusted to complete all of her responsibilities efficiently and effectively. “Though I had not been exposed to this type of work before, the full-time employees on my team trained me very patiently, and then trusted me to work independently to complete all of my work. Though they were always available for questions, I appreciated this trust and felt proud when I was successful.”

Networking Opportunities

“Being involved in LEAP (Leaders of the Education Alliance Program) has helped me network with professionals in many areas at Infor,” says Chad Behnke, a sales rep who graduated from Concordia University with an MBA. LEAP is Infor’s 18-month, on-the-job training program for new associates. And since Infor employees work in just about every industry you can think of, there’s always someone new to talk to and something new to learn.  

Access to Leadership

One activity that stood out to Eva from her summer interning at Infor was the Scholar Lunches, where company leaders would share their professional backgrounds and the projects they were working on. “This inspired us and let us see how their paths led them to their positions at Infor,” she says.

Room to Grow

“Infor has a tremendous amount of courses and resources available to employees,” says Alyssa Barry, an Infor Value Engineering consultant who graduated from Brandeis University with a master’s in international business. “I can be selective and take courses that might be beneficial to my career on my own time.”

Opportunities to continue learning and growing are available outside the company, too. “I plan on taking advantage of the tuition reimbursement plan here to continue educating myself in pursuit of another master’s degree,” Chad told us.

The Chance to Make a Company-Wide Impact

Tyler Henn, a security management major at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, interned with the business innovation and technology information risk team at Infor. “We were in charge of protecting the company from threats like malware and social engineering,” he says. Tyler was in charge of creating content for future awareness trainings, educating employees about security risks, and working alongside his manager to update security policies. 

Ready to join a company that’s invested in your success? Infor is hiring now, so head over to WayUp, check out their open jobs, and apply!

The post What Does it Mean to Invest in Employee Success? These Team Members Have the Answer appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

How do you know you’ve found the right job? Just ask Alex Bossetta who began working at GLG last year.  Although most associates come straight from undergraduate degrees, Alex recently completed her master’s degree at The George Washington University and now works in GLG’s Austin office.

“After my first few months at GLG, my friends and family noticed how happy I was—how things were going super well,” she says. “They told me: ‘It’s like they gave you a hiking guide map to get to the top of the mountain.”

There wasn’t much structure at Alex’s last job, which meant she never knew how she was performing. She left all of that in the past when she joined the Senior Associate Program at GLG, the world’s leading professional learning platform. Associates there work closely with the company’s clients, who are professionals at top businesses. Alex came into the program ready to work, performed well, and was promoted to a manager position in less than 24 months, with no shortage of support along the way.

At each stage of the program, associates are thoroughly trained in the skills they need to be successful in their jobs. It typically takes 18 to 24 months to progress through the Senior Associate Program, a timeline that depends on performance. Alex was promoted more quickly than many of her peers in the program (12 months!), which her team attributes to her curiosity and dedication to finding new ways to help GLG’s clients succeed.

Here’s what Alex learned along the way—and how you can join GLG and go from first day to manager in 24 months or less.

Fast-Track to Management

There are two phases to the GLG Senior Associate Program, each designed to build a specific set of skills and prepare associates to reach the next level of their career:

1. Junior Associate: This is where Alex (and all new associates) start out at GLG. The goal for employees in this role is to grow GLG’s Council Membership and understand the internal workings of the company. It’s also a chance to show your manager that you’re a team player and committed to working hard every day.
2. Senior Associate: In this role, associates begin to shift their focus to client service. They also continue to work with and add to GLG’s 500,000 council members and are  expected to know the ins and outs of what those subject-matter experts have to offer. Alex works specifically with private equity and venture capital clients. It’s her job to connect her clients with those experts to solve difficult problems.

Once an associate has mastered these skills, they’re promoted to a manager position. Managers are responsible for client account and people management, in addition to the same basic responsibilities as Senior Associates. Before graduating to this role, associates must demonstrate that they know how to lead a team by motivating colleagues and supporting their professional development.

A Lifetime of Lessons

“The main thing I’ve gained throughout the program is confidence in who I am personally and as a professional,” Alex says. In her first year at GLG, she’s learned some amazing lessons like:

• Teamwork is Crucial: “[I learned] how to transition from being a high-performing overachiever to realizing you can’t do it without the people next to you,” she says. “You’re really in it together.”
• Take Creative Risks: “GLG is really a place where you can trip and fall and you’ll have people right there to pick you up,” she says.
• You Don’t Need to Know Your Niche: “Before graduation, my college career center was pushing me toward a single path,” says Alex. But that path didn’t feel right to her. At GLG, that’s pretty common—even welcomed. “It’s a place where people can learn to be a great all-around professional and then find their niche,” she says.

Ready to take your career from 0 to 60? GLG is hiring now, so head over to WayUp and apply!

The post How This Associate Went from First Day to Manager in Less Than a Year and a Half appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Whether it’s your first day, week or month at a new job, getting used to a fresh set of responsibilities and navigating an unfamiliar workplace is never easy. That’s why we asked six Accenture Federal Services team members to share their best tips for making a big impact and building a career you love. Wherever you work, their words of wisdom will help you go from new kid in the office to star employee in no time.

Eng Gin Moe
College: Georgetown University
Graduation Year: 2016
Major: Computer Information Systems
College Major: Foreign Service, Science, Technology and International Affairs
Job at Accenture Federal Services: Management Consulting Analyst
Advice: Find what you’re passionate about
“When I first joined Accenture Federal, I knew I was very interested in the nonprofit group. In the first few weeks when I was unstaffed (waiting to be assigned to a group), I took the opportunity to talk to individuals associated with that group, and eventually found my way onto the nonprofit core team. I would recommend that you find an area of Accenture Federal or a client you really admire and talk to the team in charge.”

Celia Dyer
College: University of Virginia
Graduation Year: 2015
Major: Systems and Information Engineering, Economics
Job at Accenture Federal Services: Software Business Implementation Senior Analyst
Advice: Get out of your comfort zone
“The best advice I ever received was that being out of your comfort zone is the best way to learn. Also, reach out for mentors. I think there is a lot of value in getting new perspectives about present and future roles, and I have yet to find anyone (from my peers to Managing Directors) who isn’t willing to help.”

Delaney Cave
College: James Madison University
Graduation Year: 2016
Major: Computer Science
Job at Accenture Federal Services: System Developer Analyst
Advice: Embrace challenges and learn from your mistakes
“Keep an open mind, be willing to learn new things and face challenges every day. Take failure and disappointment and use that as a tool for motivation.”

Cam Hoang Pham
College: George Mason University
Graduation Year: 2014
Major: Applied Computer Science with a concentration in Software Engineering
Job at Accenture Federal Services: DevOps Analyst
Advice: Build your network
“System Developer Analyst is an entry-level role, so you need to build your network [to advance in your career]. The sooner you start, the easier your career development will be.”

Raelena Kniff
College: Virginia Tech
Graduation Year: 2013 (Masters Degree 2014)
Major: Public Affairs: Global Development; Masters in Public Administration
Job at Accenture Federal Services: Digital & Mobile Functional Analyst
Best Advice: Create your personal brand
“Identify what differentiates you and spotlight how you’ve excelled in that given area—bonus points if this skillset or passion was pursued outside or beyond the class syllabus. It’s more impactful to have a story showcasing that you were self-motivated enough to accomplish something that wasn’t mandated by another party.”

Ashleigh Owens
College: Howard University
Graduation Year: 2014
Major: Computer Information Systems
Job at Accenture Federal Services: Test Engineering Analyst
Best Advice: Go beyond your job title
“Be open to different experiences and positions, and come with an open mind and eagerness to learn. Make meaningful connections inside and outside of your role and specialty. Become involved outside of your everyday project responsibilities.”

Ready to put their advice into action? Check out Accenture Federal Services on WayUp to learn more.

The post 6 Ways to Make a Big Impact at Your New Job appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

This post was originally written by Culinary Agents, a professional networking and job matching website designed for current and aspiring professionals in the food, beverage, and hospitality industry.

Whether you are jumping into your first career or are moving on to your next one, here are tips for becoming a standout candidate in the hospitality industry.

1. Get Inspired

Take a step back to see how others got to where you want to go. Familiarize yourself with industry leaders you admire. Pick your top five individuals and then delve deeper into the why. Identify patterns in their career paths, trace their success back to see if they have common roots and/or training. (Don’t know where to start? Check out our Inspirational Career Timelines.)

2. Identify Your Priorities

It is important to know what you want. Start by doing some self-discovery and ask yourself important questions. Here are some to get you in the mindset: How do you rank money, work/life balance? What do you want to get out of your next job (e.g., learning opportunity, fame, awards, etc.)? What do you need right now? What can be sacrificed for the time being?

3. Do Your Research

Think about what parts of hospitality interest you. Which types of businesses do you see yourself at? Who do you aspire to work with? What excites you and drives your passion for this industry? Pick a few positions that fit your criteria and look at how leaders have been successful in them. Understand what skills you need to get started as well as what knowledge gaps you may have and how you can fill them.

4. Speak the Language

Be realistic about what skills you bring to the table as well as what you need to learn. If you’re coming from another industry, take the time to understand how your skills align and apply with those important to hospitality. Go out, explore, observe and talk to people who are currently working in the industry. People are still the core of the hospitality business.

5. (Re) Set Your Expectations

To reap the rewards, you must put in the work. Prepare to work hard and be willing to start at an entry level position to create a strong foundation for your path. Don’t get discouraged by titles. Titles vary based on the sector and category of hospitality business. If you did your research and focused on your priorities, chances are you’re going after the right employers.

6. Get Noticed

Be proactive and persistent. Seek out your selected employer(s) and reach out to them. Thoughtfully approach cover letters and applications by inserting snippets of your research in and highlighting why you are eager to work for them.

7. Follow up and be professional

Everyone is busy, which makes a timely and professional “thank you” important to stay top-of-mind and shows initiative. If you don’t get the job, understand why so that you can learn from the experience. Also, circling back with a follow-up message at a later date could make a difference. Remember, if you want something bad enough, go for it!

The post How to Get Started in the Hospitality Industry appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Internships are an important way to jumpstart your career, but there’s a lot more you can do to strengthen your resume and set yourself apart from your peers. When evaluating you as a candidate, employers also take into account your extracurriculars and on-campus jobs as well as your leadership and volunteer experience.

If you’re looking to be a well-rounded student in order to land yourself that dream internship or entry-level job, check out how you can make yourself stand out by becoming more involved in campus life this fall.

1. Join Greek life.

Not only are there amazing social aspects of these organizations, there are also opportunities to showcase your dedication to volunteering and giving back to your community. Philanthropy is a big part of most fraternities and sororities, so you will spend your time helping out a cause, which is great in and of itself, and you’ll also demonstrate to employers that you’re passionate about making a difference in others’ lives, which can translate into making a difference within the company.

2. Take on a leadership position.

Whether you’re part of the Math Club or Animal Benefits Club (and by the way, if you’re not in any clubs or organizations, you should join activities that you’re interested in!), run for a position on the executive board. You will learn a lot of skills that are perfect for the workplace, such as leadership, teamwork, planning, etc. Plus, getting more involved with an organization you’re passionate about will enable you to make connections with people who share your interests and hobbies.

3. Apply for an on-campus job.

Because it can be very difficult to work part-time at an internship or other off-campus job for several reasons, like time constraints, lack of transportation and more, working on campus is the perfect solution. You’ll gain experience to add to your resume (and some money for your bank account) without having to make a long commute. There are several offices on campus looking for administrative help, and on many campuses, tutors and tour guides are paid as well, so there is an abundance of options at your feet.

4. Talk to your professors.

Depending on your field of study, you can get involved in a research project with your professor. Several professors look for students to help them experiment in their research labs and publish papers. You’ll have the chance to work closely with a professor who may be able to provide you with a letter of recommendation down the line and career advice along the way, and you’ll be able to add that paper to your portfolio or that research assistant position to the work experience section of your resume. Professors are often overlooked resources that can be extremely helpful in guiding you towards the right career path for you.

There are several attributes and experiences that will look good on your resume, so while internships are extremely beneficial (and we encourage every student to do an internship), remember that there are other components to your resume too. So, if you haven’t had an internship yet or your internship experience wasn’t exactly what you were expecting, getting involved on campus can keep your resume from being just another one in the pile.

The post 4 Ways to Get More Involved on Campus This Semester appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

How do you feel about a job where you can make a global impact, use the most advanced software technologies, and work with passionate people every day? Sounds like a pretty great place to start or advance your career to us!

Infor and its team of over 15,000 employees provide cloud-based business software solutions to companies in just about every industry you can think of (The Cheesecake Factory, Nissan, Foot Locker and Lockheed Martin are just a few of their customers). In short, the Infor team is completely reshaping the way people do business, and how the world operates.

Ready for a challenging job where you can clearly see the impact of your work? Read on for three ways Infor team members are achieving amazing things for the companies they work with.

Infor Employees Helped Skills Inc. Increase Orders (and Productivity)
Because of Infor’s work, aerospace industry contract manufacturer Skills Inc. reported a 510 percent uptick in orders from one of its biggest customers, increased its number of on-time deliveries, and improved overall workplace productivity. Best of all, measurable impact isn’t just an occasional thing. At Infor, it’s the status quo.

Infor Improved Hospital Care in a Big Way

The Infor team used its technology to cut down over 65,000 hours of time spent on organizing patient processes at the Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. As a result, appointments get scheduled 5 to 10 times faster than before when everything was done via a phone call. Infor’s technology also led to greater communication and freed up more time for doctors to spend with their patients. Infor employees may not be working in a hospital, but they still have a huge impact on patient care.

Infor Optimized the Biggest Particle Collider in the World

CERN is the largest particle physics research center in the world, and the home of the Large Hadron Collider, the world’s biggest particle collider. The center, which serves up key information about the particles of the universe to 10,000 scientists, called on Infor to optimize its equipment and figure out ways to keep its infrastructure intact without interrupting work to perform maintenance. And they achieved just that. The work of Infor employees resulted in a 50 percent reduction in maintenance and gave CERN scientists the ability to process certain information 15 times faster than before. Talk about a world-changing job.

Outcomes like these are part of the reason Infor employees come to work every day. Want to learn more? Check out Infor’s company page on WayUp.

The post Meet the Company That’s Changing How Work Gets Done appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

We all know internships are an amazing way to kick-start your career, but once you land the perfect gig, how do you make yourself unforgettable? With its amazing 10-week summer internship program, Unilever knows a thing or two (or four) about how to stand out from the pack and set the stage for your future career.

So grab a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream (made my Unilever). We’re sharing their top advice for a successful summer internship experience.

Be a Problem Solver and Think Differently

Unilever’s interns aren’t there to do busy work. They come from around the country to solve real business problems in a range of areas, including supply chain, research and development, marketing, information technology, finance, customer development and human resources. Successful interns don’t give up when a project gets challenging. Instead, they push themselves to think differently, try new things and find a smart solution. That problem-solving spirit can be felt company-wide: Unilever committed to using 100 percent clean energy by 2030, and you better believe interns play a role in making that a reality.

Welcome (and learn from) Feedback

Unilever’s internship coordinators want every intern to have an amazing time and learn a ton from their experience. That’s why all interns are given a project and evaluated on their progress both mid-way through the program and at the end of it. The most successful interns ask a lot of inquisitive questions and take any feedback to heart. That way, when the end of the program arrives, they can wow everyone with how much they’ve improved. Take this approach and there’s a good chance you’ll be top-of-mind when your company is ready to hire full-time employees.

Be a Leader

Did you know Unilever’s VP of Human Resources started out as an intern? Opportunities for growth and leadership don’t just come along for full-time hires at a company, so seek them out from day one as an intern. In fact, Unilever recognizes ambition and looks to hire as many interns as possible into its Future Leaders Program after graduation, so you’ll want to keep your eye on the prize all internship long. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to showcase your leadership skills, too. At the end of the program, interns present their projects to an influential crowd of senior management and other stakeholders. If you want to impress this audience, you can’t wait until the last minute to prepare. So work hard and study up throughout your time there. And when it’s time to present, own it.

Ready to make your mark and learn a ton at Unilever? They’re hiring now, so check out their open positions on WayUp and apply!

The post How To Make Yourself Unforgettable At Your Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Summer is flying by, which means that the fall semester is quickly approaching. Between moving in, starting classes and getting back into your daily routine, it can be an overwhelming time both for incoming freshmen and returning students. Don’t worry though, we’re here to help you out.

Getting organized will make your return to school a lot less hectic, so check out a few organizational tips below to kick off the fall semester on the right note.

1. Invest in a planner.

The beginning of a new semester is the perfect time to get organized. Having a planner will help you to keep track of your class schedule, work schedule and extracurricular activities. You don’t want to miss a meeting or be late to work, because you have so many responsibilities on your plate. Using a planner will help you plan out your day, so you know when you have free time and when you’re busy. It’s also important to schedule in time to do homework, study, relax and spend time with your friends. College is a balancing act and although sometimes it may seem like you have no time, a planner will help you visualize your day-to-day activities and stay on top of everything you need (and want) to do.

2. Pack ahead of time and unpack right away.

When you’re rushing to get all of your belongings together at the last minute, you’re more likely to forget something. You don’t want to feel stressed out before the semester even really begins, so do yourself a favor and begin packing in advance. Make a checklist of all of the items you’ll need and be sure to check them off as you pack. This is a great way to keep your stuff organized, so when you arrive at school, you’ll know what you have with you. Just like packing early is critical, unpacking immediately is as well. The last thing you want is to still have a room full of bags and suitcases once you’ve already started classes.

3. Be honest with yourself.

Take the time to sit down and think about your priorities and responsibilities over the course of the semester and set reasonable goals for yourself about what you’d like to accomplish. If you want to get better grades in school, leave more time for studying and maybe cut back on your extracurriculars. If you need to make more money this semester, consider taking on a part-time job or internship. Compromising is a huge part of staying organized and if you have an idea of what you can and can’t commit to throughout the next few months, it will be a lot easier to say no (or yes) down the line.

4. Don’t forget about miscellaneous responsibilities as well.

When you plan out your day with a planner, it can be easy to forget about the little things like eating meals, cleaning, grocery shopping and doing laundry, but these tasks must still get done, so don’t forget about them. If you think about these things ahead of time and keep in mind that other unexpected things can and will happen, you’ll feel much less overwhelmed when you realize that you have to take an hour or two to clean your room or you get sick and need to go to the doctor. Self care is extremely important in order to work efficiently and lead a happy and healthy college life, so don’t push it to the back burner because of your busy schedule.

Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to a more relaxing and organized semester. If you organize your schedule, your life and your thoughts, you’ll start off the fall semester ready to take on another sixteen weeks of class, work, clubs and fun too!

The post 4 Organizational Tips to Kick Off the Fall Semester appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Though remote opportunities give you the freedom to work on your terms, they can still be just as challenging as working in-person.

The lack of physical management can cause a learning curve in a lot of interns. On top of learning during your internship, you also have to learn vital lifelong skills to manage your work independently. For first-time remote interns, it can be exhausting to stay productive when nobody is watching. Nevertheless, this is not an impossible task.

While it may seem unlikely and stressful at times, you can do this, and here are some helpful tips that’ll help you stay on track.

1. Make a Separate Work Space

Separating your work area from your bedroom can keep you from doing other unproductive activities, such as taking a nap or binge watching Netflix.

Likewise, having a designated work space, even if it is your kitchen table, allows you to associate that area with productivity. Association of a workspace can put you in the mood to work more easily than working in a space that is associated with sleep or relaxation.

2. Use a Specific Scent or Chew Gum

Studies show that chewing gum can increase productivity. While this study was conducted on test-takers, the same principle can be applied to studying and even working. Pick your favorite gum, preferably a long-lasting one, and stick to it. Once you walk into your workspace, pop a piece of that gum, and over time you will have a more auspicious working environment.

If you aren’t a gum person, you can use a specific scent in the same way. Choose your favorite soothing candle or incense in the same way you would gum. No, don’t ingest it, just use it near your workspace and reap the results.

3. Reward Yourself

Rewarding yourself for all of your hard work can create some positive reinforcement, which will make you work smarter (and not just harder). Create a system so that you take a 15-minute break after 45 minutes of working. Why should you break after working for 45 minutes? This system allows you to track yourself on an hour-to-hour basis, which allows you to easily schedule your work and play time. Plus, working for 45 minutes at a time can help reduce the chance that you will feel overwhelmed by your tasks.

Most importantly, it’s important that your break consists of mindless activities that should be conducted in a different location than your workspace. Eat a snack, or if you aren’t hungry, go for a walk or exercise for a bit. Better yet, you could color a page in an adult coloring book. After all, coloring can reduce stress, which will make you feel reenergized to start working again when your 15 minutes are up.

4. Practice Wrist and Hand Exercises

Repetitive motions, like typing and writing, can cause some serious issues with your hands and wrists. Most commonly, repetitive motions and lack of motion can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Above are some helpful exercises to make sure your phalanges stay in fine working conditions.

5. Organize Your Desk

Maintaining organization on and around your desk will not only declutter your workspace, but it can also declutter your mind. Plus, an effective organization plan will make it easier for you to find important documents. While organization limits distractions, it is also important to make your workspace comfortable and fun.

6. Decorate Your Office

Although the point of having a tidy desk is to reduce clutter, it is also relevant that you refrain from exterminating clutter entirely. Decorating your office can make your work more comfortable.

Speaking of comfort, splurging on a cozy faux-leather office chair, or even a recliner, might give you enough incentive to sit down and get to work. However, if you want to ensure you get active while you work, you can trade in your stationary seat for an exercise ball. After all, some light exercise can make you more alert, among other helpful benefits.

Though these tips also apply to traditional in-house internships, they can help remote novices do great work from anywhere (even a dorm room!). As basic as these tips may seem when you implement them, they will ensure that your remote internship is anything but basic.

Want to find out more about National Intern Day and how you can win a cash prize? Head over to nationalinternday.com to get the scoop.

The post 6 Ways to Stay Productive During a Remote Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

In the workplace, introverts get a hard rap. Not only are they labeled as unenthusiastic and poor team players, but others may assume that because they prefer to work quietly on their own, that they’re actually unproductive, or even worse, inattentive. In reality, introverts are capable of tackling the same tasks and responsibilities as extroverts; they just tackle them in their own way.

If you feel as if you’re an introvert, you may be worried about your inability to compete with extroverted interns. Don’t fret. In fact, because of the introvert tendency to think through situations before reacting, you actually have a lot of clear advantages over extroverts. Here are five ways you can shine as an introvert in your internship:

1. Quality over Quantity

Introverts are thinkers. You might not come up with five new ideas and excitedly share them over the course of one brainstorming session, but the idea you do come up with will be the cream of the crop. Rather than bursting out the idea the moment you conceive it, you’ll quietly gather your thoughts in order to perfect the idea, and only then, will you share it.

Introverts will thus not give unfounded ideas, which is a great timesaver in the workplace. Even if more outspoken interns are better at making their ideas heard, introverted interns are better making their ideas implemented.

2. Independence

Employers are always looking for focused team members who produce high-quality work, and introverts tend to be very good at staying focused on the task at hand. They think about the problem, form a solution, and just do it without getting distracted by small talk.  Bosses won’t need to ask them to solve a problem; chances are, if they have found the problem, they’re already working on finding the solution. In short, introverted interns are great at staying on task with little direction.

3. Desire to Improve

Introverted people may not seem outwardly competitive, but they undoubtedly feel a certain sense of competition. Instead of competing with others, they’re competing with themselves, a more fruitful, and engaging endeavor. They’re constantly challenging themselves to do better, which means they’ll be focused during work, but they’ll also be preparing outside of work. Introverted interns don’t just try hard on the job; they’re reading and learning more about the industry in their spare time.

 4. Passion

Not only are introverts passionate about improving themselves, they’re passionate about upholding their interests and beliefs. If you’re an introvert interning at a substance abuse rehab center, you probably feel passionate about fighting drug abuse, and you’ll do everything you can to help the patients get clean.

 5. Good Listening Skills

Introverts watch, listen, and observe in order to get all the information they need to hit the nail on the head the first time around. Supervisors won’t have to explain a concept or a process over and over; once introverts understand the idea, they’ll start looking for other places to apply it.

Tips for Interning as an Introvert

Despite all the inherent strengths introverts have in internships, it can be a little hard to figure out how to use these strengths. Here are three tips for succeeding in your internship as an introvert:

1. Take Notes

In order to calm down before an important meeting, write down all the notes you think you’ll need, or even plan out some of what you’ll say. Nobody is going to look down on you for over-preparing for a big meeting, and it’s always better than under-preparing and not understanding everything you need to do.

2. Regroup When Needed

If you’re feeling stressed or frantic, don’t be afraid to take a few minutes to calm down and regroup. Get your thoughts in order and return to work with a positive mindset.

3. Plan, Plan, Plan

Internships are often high-pressured so planning ahead of time can prevent you from having an uncomfortable “deer in headlights” moment. Yes, you’ll need to think on your feet, but your day will turn out better if you’ve prepared as much as you can.

The most important thing to remember is that even though you are an introvert, it’s not a curse—you are just as much of a valuable member of the team as an extrovert! You bring a different set of experiences and thought processes to the table, and that is extremely useful to any company. Instead of feeling ashamed of your introversion, embrace it—understand the importance of quality and hard work!

Want to find out more about National Intern Day and how you can win a cash prize? Head over to nationalinternday.com to get the scoop.

The post 5 Advantages Introverts Have In Internships appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

When it comes to internships, many of us often forget that there’s more to being an intern than just being someone’s assistant, and you really have to come prepared if you want to go above and beyond what’s asked of you. What do you need to prove you’re ready to get down to business? Here are seven things that the most successful interns bring to work every day.

1. The Right Planner

Having a planner that meets your specific needs is important if you want to stay organized and on time. Look for one that has both monthly and weekly spreads. You can put general reminders and events on the monthly pages, while writing down other assignments on the weekly pages.

Some websites even offer customizable planners, like Agendio and Erin Condren, where you can choose your own designs and layouts. Would you prefer a reasonably small-sized planner so it’s easy to take everywhere? Or would you rather have a larger planner, so you have plenty of room to write your daily schedule? There are so many options out there, but just make sure you pick one that works for you.

2. Extra Pens

You are probably going to lose your pens, even when you try so hard not to. We drop them while walking, we let the person sitting next to us borrow one, and we accidentally take them all home. Just be prepared by always having a ton of extra pens. You don’t want to be caught off-guard in an important lecture or meeting without a pen to take notes!

3. Lotion

If you ever find yourself unable to sleep or stressed out to the point where nothing can relax you, then you should try using some hand lotion. Bath & Body Works sells travel-size aromatherapy lotions that will make you feel better instantly, and who doesn’t feel better with softer hands?

4. Post-Its

Post-Its are one of the best ways to make reminders for yourself, and they definitely beat writing on the back of your hand like in middle school. You can literally stick them anywhere, like your computer, desk, or notebooks. The bright colors are easy to spot, so you’ll never miss a note. Post-Its come in all different colors and sizes, both lined and blank. The larger lined notes are perfect for to-do lists. Try assigning different colors for all of your commitments so you avoid getting confused.

5. Vitamin Boosts

Chances are that if you’re running around between school, work, extracurriculars, and friends, you’re going to be exhausted by the middle of the day. Even though most of us often turn to coffee when we need more energy, vitamin boosts are a better alternative.

Olly Nutrition has plenty of options, like Endless Energy vitamins for endurance and focus, which contain caffeine from green tea, B vitamins, and amino acids to give you an energy boost. If you’re one of those people who is constantly sick in the winter, they have Ultimate Immunity vitamins as well. These vitamin boosts will keep you going throughout your busy schedule.

6. Mints and Gum

Besides saving you from bad breath, having mints or gum in your bag might even be able to help you network by offering a piece to the other people around you. It will give you an extra opportunity to introduce yourself to your coworkers and supervisors that you might have not had before.

7. Positive Attitude

Probably the most important thing that every intern should bring to work is a positive attitude. At this stage in the game, we’re still trying to find our place in the real working industry. We need to love what we’re doing in order to get the most out of our experiences as interns. If your employer sees that you’re going above and beyond, so many other opportunities open up (like even a position after you graduate!). You’ll never know until you put in the extra effort.

From planners to vitamins, these things will help you make it through your long days of class and work. Now that you know the seven things that the most successful interns bring to work every day, all you need to do is make sure that you find a bag, purse, or backpack that you love to carry them all in!

Want to find out more about National Intern Day and how you can win a cash prize? Head over to nationalinternday.com to get the scoop.

The post 7 Things the Most Successful Interns Bring to Work Every Day appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Whether you want to make extra cash or add experience to your resume, there are several reasons for taking on both a part-time job and an internship at the same time. You might need the extra cash from a part-time job because of an unpaid internship or you might be trying to increase the amount of money you can save by working two paid positions at once. Whatever your reasons, it takes a lot of time and energy to do both. In order to maximize your time in each role and prevent yourself from burning out, check out these tips to help keep your schedule manageable.

1. Speak to your supervisors.

Working two jobs will inevitably lead to a busy schedule so  it’s important to be upfront with your supervisors at your internship and your job about your other obligations in order to avoid conflicts. If your internship requires you to be in the office on weekdays, see if you can take night and weekend shifts at your part-time job. Although most employers will understand that you have other responsibilities outside of work, sometimes an overlap is unavoidable. Having a packed schedule almost always results in a conflict at some point or another, so if your supervisors are aware of your situation, things will go much more smoothly when an issue arises.

2. Be realistic about your time.

Good time management skills are a must when you have a part-time job and an internship. Because your days are planned around your work schedule it’s important to make sure that you use your spare time well. This could include doing homework, studying, going to club meetings or hanging out with your friends. You don’t want other aspects of your life to fall to the bottom of your priority list. You know yourself best, so if you find that your schedule is getting to be too much to handle, you may need to rethink your situation.

3. Take care of yourself.

Self-care often becomes nonexistent when you’re running around every day, but it’s something you need to prioritize if you want to maintain a balanced life. Since your body is constantly moving, you need to recharge yourself. Eat healthy meals, sleep seven to eight hours per night and take breaks throughout the day. Although those things can seem trivial compared to what you have on your plate, ignoring your physical and mental health is not the answer. The busier you are, the more necessary it becomes to take care of yourself, because no matter what you’re doing, your well-being comes first.

Finding the perfect balance can be challenging and frustrating at times, but at the end of the day, you’re going to have great experience, a top-notch resume and hopefully some financial security. Just keep your eye on the prize, but remember not to stretch yourself too thin. Follow these tips and you’re already on the right track.

The post Top 3 Tips for Balancing A Part-Time Job & An Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

You’ve made it through your first day and your first week. You’ve met everyone in the office, familiarized yourself with the location, and gotten a grip on the commute. So, now what? You’re still in the early stages of the internship, but your responsibilities and projects are beginning to kick into high gear, and you want to ensure that you succeed. Now that the work has really begun, check out these tips to keep up the positive impression you made during your first week.

1. Understand your deadlines.

This step is critical. As you begin getting assigned projects, you will be expected to turn them around by a specific date and you don’t want to be rushing to get something done at the last minute. Make sure to keep track of your time in order to prevent yourself from getting overwhelmed or frustrated. If you find that you’re struggling with something, talk to your supervisor. The last thing you want is to be asked for your progress and have nothing done, so make a to-do list, prioritize what needs to be done first and check off items as you complete them. This process will be much easier than crossing tasks off in your head.

2. Expose yourself to as much as you can.

If you have the opportunity to do a variety of projects or assignments, you should take advantage of it. Internships often don’t last very long, so you want to use your time wisely. If there’s an aspect of the business that you’re really interested in, ask your supervisor if you can try out something new for a day or even for an hour. Although it can sometimes be intimidating to speak up, an internship is a learning experience for you and if you don’t ask, you’ll regret it later when your internship is over.

3. Ask questions when you’re confused.

As an intern, you’re almost always going to have questions, because you don’t have a lot of real-world experience yet and that’s okay. As long as you’re not asking the same questions repeatedly, there’s nothing wrong with doing so. In fact, your employer would probably be more surprised if you didn’t have any questions. If you’re working on a project and you need a little clarification, ask. While there are some things that you can figure out yourself, don’t sit there for hours because you’re afraid to ask for help. You’ll wind up wasting time, and most likely you’ll have to end up asking the question anyway or redoing something because you did it wrong the first time. Asking questions is a good practice — it’s the only way you’ll ever learn!

4. Put forth your greatest effort.

Although you may be challenged and you may find what you’re doing difficult sometimes because it’s all new to you, the most important thing you can do is to try your best. Whether you make a mistake or do something perfectly the first time around, your supervisor will be able to tell if you put a lot of work into it or if you just threw something together. Your work ethic will show, so be sure to always put your best foot forward and your dedication and determination will be respected.

You’re going to have a few pitfalls during your first month, but that doesn’t mean you’re not a good intern. The first month consists of almost entirely new experiences, and once your first month is underway, you’ll be better prepared for the second, then the third, and so on. Try to keep in mind that practice makes perfect.

The post How To Tackle The First Month Of Your Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

While there are many steps you can take to make yourself an all-star intern, there are also mistakes you can make (sometimes unknowingly) that can have the opposite effect. In order to avoid these, it’s important to remember why you’re at your internship in the first place. Although it should definitely be a fun experience, you are receiving college credit and perhaps other forms of compensation to contribute your time and effort to the organization, so staying motivated and productive is a must.

To avoid landing yourself in hot water, check out our top tips about what not to do at your next internship.

1. Don’t spend time on your phone or on social media.

Unless there is an emergency or you’re expecting an important call, there is no need to be on your phone throughout the day. You’re at your internship to learn and to work and if you spend your day slacking off and not accomplishing your goals, it will not go unnoticed. Surfing social media sites or texting all day will make it seem like you don’t care at all about the position and that you don’t want to be there. The last thing you want to be known for at your internship is being lazy or unproductive.

2. Don’t contribute too much or too little.

There’s an important balance you want to reach between making your voice heard, yet knowing when to just sit back and listen. As an intern, you’re still relatively new to the industry and you don’t have as much experience or knowledge as your fellow coworkers. That being said, if you’re asked for input or if you have a suggestion that you think is worth contributing, then by all means, do it. You just want to make sure that you’re not overstepping your place or coming off like a know-it-all.

3. Don’t be closed-minded.

An internship is meant to be a learning experience and you want to gain as much knowledge as you possibly can, so never say no to a project or a task because you don’t want to do it or because you think you won’t like it. Give everything a chance, because not only is it your job as an intern to follow instructions, but it will ultimately help you decide what you see yourself doing as a future career.

It can be difficult to know what not do in a new position, especially as an intern, but by following these tips, you’ll knock a bad habit before you even start it.

The post 3 Things You Shouldn’t Do At Your Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Your first week at an internship is extremely important. It’s when expectations are determined and you learn even more about what you’ll be doing throughout your time at the company. You’re setting the course for the remaining weeks, so you want to make sure that you do everything you can in that first week to make yourself stand out to your coworkers and your supervisor.

Follow these tips below to showcase your talents and be the rockstar intern that you are!

1. Come in early and leave late.

While punctuality is expected, coming in early will make a positive impression the second you step foot in the door. This is especially important on your first day, but throughout the first week and even throughout your internship in general. If you’re working eight hours per day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., don’t show up at 9 the dot and leave at exactly 5. You’ll be much more respected as an intern if you arrive earlier than necessary and leave around the same time, if not later, than everyone else, because you’re going above and beyond the minimum requirement.

2. Introduce yourself to everyone.

Your first week is the perfect time to get to know the people that you’ll be working alongside. Meet everyone and anyone you can. Getting to know your fellow interns and coworkers will make you feel comfortable in your environment and it will give you the chance to learn from many different people. Grab coffee or lunch or even just set aside time in the office to chat. This is your time to ask questions about an individual’s position, background, and experience at the company. Your internship will be so much more rewarding if you engage and interact with those around you.

3. Familiarize yourself with the office.

Within your first week, make sure you know the location of the bathroom, the kitchen, supply closets, etc… As a new intern, you’re not supposed to know where everything is yet, but if you don’t take the time to navigate the office early on, you’re going to feel awkward asking someone questions about it later on down the road. It doesn’t hurt to familiarize yourself with the surrounding area as well. Maybe take a walk outside during your lunch break to find restaurants, stores, or anything else you might be looking for at some point. You’re going to be in the office for a majority of your time, so you want to know what’s around it too.

4. Get organized.

Even though you may not have begun any projects yet, because the first week can be a bit overwhelming sometimes, staying organized is key to being productive. Make sure to complete any tasks you may need to do to get you started like setting up your computer or desk or filling out forms. You want to have everything ready and prepared for when you start diving into your work and you don’t want to run into any issues before you even really begin.

5. Be positive.

No matter what happens on the first or second day, remain positive. Your coworkers and supervisor especially will be able to gauge your attitude, so avoid complaining or talking negatively. Wearing a smile on your face, especially during your first week, shows everyone in the company that you deserve to be there and that most importantly, you want to be there. In order to be a successful intern, you have to be willing to take on any tasks that are asked of you without hesitation. Plus, staying positive will make your time much more enjoyable.

Your first week is extremely significant, but don’t forget that an internship is meant to be a fun, learning experience for you as a student, so don’t get too caught up in any mistakes you make along the way. Just keep working hard and doing your best. Good luck!

The post 5 Tips For Rocking The First Week of Your Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

In our fast-paced society, nearly every day consists of a busy schedule and it’s all too easy to become overwhelmed. Whether it’s school, work, your social life, or other responsibilities that are stressing you out, taking breaks is a must. They are good for your health and they give you something to look forward to during your hectic day. Even if you don’t have that much time on your hands, you can take a deep breath and relax in only 10 minutes. You wouldn’t believe the impact it will have on your mood and then when you return to work or class, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on your next task.

Check out some of our tips below to relax when you’re on the clock!

1. Go outside and take a walk.

A breath of fresh air truly is the cure for anything. If you begin to feel stressed out or you just need a minute to breathe, taking a walk outside will do the trick. It gives you a chance to remove yourself from your environment, gets your blood circulating and allows you to declutter your mind, which will help lift the weight off your shoulders. Basking in the sun (or even a little rain) for even just a short period of time will rejuvenate you.

2. Drink a cup of tea.

Tea is meant to soothe you and help you relax, and even if aren’t a fan of tea, it’s the relaxation element that counts, so grab yourself a cup and savor the taste and the time to yourself. Enjoying the little things in life is what’s most important when you’re tense or frustrated because it serves as a reminder to not let a bad day get the best of you.

3. Write in your journal.

Journaling is a wonderful stress reliever. Write about anything that comes to your mind or maybe even write about what’s bothering you. Letting it all out on paper is incredibly helpful and a great way to get past the things that are stressing you out. And remember, your journal is yours only so no one else will ever read it. In this case, you really have the ability to let your thoughts loose, so that you’re not keeping everything bottled up all day and letting it grow even more.

4. Listen to music.

Bring your headphones with you everywhere you go, so when you have a few minutes to spare, you can go off in your own world. It’s the perfect way to unplug completely, because it’s just you and the music. Listen to your favorite song or listen to a song with a slow melody. Music is extremely powerful and hearing a song you like almost always puts you in a better mood, with a smile on your face.

It’s natural to experience stress now and then because it’s a part of life, but when you feel like can’t handle it anymore, take a little break and remember that it’s only temporary.

The post 4 Tips To Help You De-Stress In Only 10 Minutes appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

As college students, saving money can be very difficult. You spend one week’s paycheck going out with friends, buying coffee every morning, grocery shopping, and filling your car with gas, so it seems almost impossible to put away money for the future. Luckily, we’re here to assure you that it’s not! You can save money and still have fun and enjoy yourself.

Check out these tips below to learn how you can treat yourself and not break the bank.

1. Budget yourself.

If you don’t pay attention to how much you’re spending, it’s much easier to overspend. In order to avoid having an empty bank account, set aside a certain amount of money that you think you’ll need for the week for food, transportation, and any other expenses you may have. What’s critical here is that you stick to it. If you give yourself a budget of $75 a week, for example, keep the rest of your money out of sight so that you won’t be tempted to spend it. Remember to only dip into your savings in the case of an emergency, like if you need to get your laptop fixed or you need to buy a new phone because yours broke. Then, when an out of the blue cost appears, you’ll have enough saved up to prevent yourself from panicking. You will be amazed by how quickly your savings will accumulate and you’ll be able to relax knowing that you have money saved for a rainy day.

2. Buy groceries instead of eating out.

Although making your own meals can be time consuming, especially during the busy school week, doing so will help you save a lot of money. You can even prepare meals ahead of time over the weekend, so that you’re not in a bind when you’re running around during the week. When you need something quick, that’s when you tend to go out to eat and then you wind up spending all of your money on fast food. The same thing goes for coffee. Instead of going to Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts, give yourself a little extra time in the morning and make your own coffee at home. Limit yourself to maybe one meal or coffee out a week, so that you still have something delicious to look forward to. Make it a treat rather than a regular occurrence. Your bank account will thank you, I promise.

3. Say ‘no’ sometimes.

Nobody wants to say no to a night on the town with friends, a concert, or a late night run to the local diner, but every once in a while, you may be better off staying in. While it’s important to enjoy your time in college and participate in a lot of fun activities, saving money is just as important. Make compromises with yourself. Instead of going to a concert once a month, maybe go once every two months. If you went out to dinner last weekend with your friends, maybe cook a meal at home this weekend and make an experience out of it. It’s all about moderation, because you still want to splurge on occasion, but it becomes dangerous when it’s an everyday pattern. Do yourself a favor and don’t be afraid to turn down an opportunity. Don’t worry about missing out on the fun, because saying no will make the next dinner, movie, or trip all that more exciting.

4. Buy only what you need.

Whether you love shopping for clothes, makeup, sneakers, games, or decor for your dorm room or apartment, it’s a habit that you need to kick in order to save some money. If you don’t need that pair of shoes or that bracelet, put it back on the shelf. The majority of what you’re spending is unnecessary and if you cut back on shopping, you have more money for necessities like food, transportation, textbooks, and more. You deserve to treat yourself when you’ve worked hard for your money and you should from time to time, but saving your money will be much more rewarding in the long run. Maybe even add something you really want to your birthday list, so the next time Mom asks what you want, you’ve got an answer for her. Buying one pair of jeans might not seem like much at the moment, but if you buy a new pair of jeans every week, those dollars add up quickly. You won’t regret having that extra money when you really need it down the line.

5. Work more.

A really great way to save money is to increase the amount of money you’re taking home. Maybe you can pick up an extra shift a week at your part-time job or become a Brand Ambassador for a company. You can even make a little extra money by filling out surveys for various products and websites that are willing to pay you for your opinions. Any little bit counts and if you’re finding that your current paycheck just isn’t cutting it, maybe you can babysit or become a dog walker on the side. There are so many options for college students to make money and if you have the time to spare, having a greater income will definitely help you save more.

Follow these tips and you’ll watch your savings account skyrocket in no time!

The post 5 Money Hacks That Will Help You Save In College appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

Now that it’s almost summer, internships are the hot topic for college students. Maybe you’re starting your first internship in a few weeks or you’re in the process of applying and you’re worried that you don’t have enough experience. There’s no need to fret. Remember that summer job you had as a lifeguard at the local pool or as a camp counselor at a daycamp? They both helped you gain valuable experience and what you’ve learned as a result has prepared you for this next step. So, how exactly do you highlight those skills in a way that helps you land the job?

Focus On Your Soft Skills

Communication and problem-solving skills are necessary in any work environment. Although you might never have had a sales internship at a marketing agency, your previous experience as a camp counselor has provided you with customer service skills. Think back to the countless times you interacted with campers and their parents and helped defuse any potential problems as they arose. When you reassured parents that their children would be in good hands, you put them at ease. If you make a customer’s life less stressful by selling them a product or service at your new internship, you’re using that same skill, just in a different setting.

Highlight Your Ability to Be Productive

Punctuality, efficiency, and productivity are crucial skills for a successful employee and a successful intern. Through summers jobs, you have grasped the importance of being on time each and every day and working diligently and productively while on the job. Following instructions regarding mealtimes and bedtimes for the children you have watched as a nanny enables you to follow a timeline of deadlines for a specific project you might be working on at your accounting internship. This connects directly to having a strong work ethic and showing initiative. Working, in any capacity, illustrates your commitment and dedication to your role, your co-workers, and your company, whether this is at a part-time retail job or an internship at an engineering firm.

Emphasize the Fact that You’re a Team Player

The ability to work as part of a team is perhaps the most important skill you need to flourish anywhere. Hiring managers and recruiters actively seek out individuals who can get along well with others and who can contribute to a team effort. Working as a barista requires a lot of teamwork, because some employees take orders, while others actually make the drinks, and others still are working in the back, cleaning and doing inventory amongst other tasks. The customer wouldn’t be able to leave the coffee shop with a drink in hand if the employees didn’t work together. The same goes for launching a new brand, idea, or concept. Without the ideas of several team members and a sense of team cohesion, the project may never see the light of day.

Though these skills are only a few of the many skills that will give you a leg up in the professional world, what’s most important is how you accentuate your experience on your WayUp profile. First and foremost, do your research and figure out what qualifications companies are looking for in their candidates. Make sure to highlight any and all skills that describe you and use similar terminology, so that your skills aren’t hidden. Next, make sure you use action verbs when listing what you have done in your previous roles. Instead of saying, “I was part of a team,” say, “contributed my ideas to team project ABC, where XYZ was accomplished,” and make sure to be specific. If you created new activities for the camp where you worked, include the results of your effort. If you increased the amount of sales in your store by suggesting a reorganization of the product setup, provide numbers or percentages. What matters most is the outcome of your actions. Include a few bullet points of your key responsibilities as well as what you accomplished throughout your time in a particular role. You want your WayUp profile and resume to stand out, so sell yourself.

By honing in on your skills and following these tips, you’ll be on your way to your first internship interview and offer in no time. Good luck!

The post Transferable Skills From A Summer Job To An Internship appeared first on Job and Internship Advice, Companies to Work for and More | WayUp Blog.

This piece originally appeared on Follow Shine on already struggle with fear, “challenge” won’t help you, it will validate your fear.