CAREER EDUCATION CENTER

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
BEYOND
THE HILLTOP
A Seniors Guide to Life
After Graduation
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TO THE SENIOR CLASS,
Congratulations!
Your years at Georgetown are at a successful end. Its probably hard to believe that the diploma youve been
working towards for so long is finally yours. After all the hours in Lauinger, the late nights in your room, the
meetings, the papers, the exams, the soul-searching, the plans, the discussions with your dean, the talks with
your roommates, and so much more, you can proudly embrace your new role as a college graduate!
Of course, this great achievement also comes with a major life transition. For some of you, youll focus on
finding a job that is fulfilling; others may be looking at a geographical move or a year of service; still others
are transitioning into graduate school. For everyone, it is undoubtedly a time of change, and there are new
questions to be answered.
To that end, weve created this document to help you plan your next steps and hopefully, to make them a
bit easier. Youll find information in here about the job search, relocating, budgeting, settling into a new
home, and much more. The Senior Handbook is a starting point, not only for practical information, but also
in understanding where additional learning might be necessary. We certainly do not expect you to read
through the Handbook from start to finish; rather, find the sections that apply to your situation and go from
there.
Wherever you are headed, remember that you still have resources available to you through the Career
Education Center and through the Alumni Association (which are highlighted in this handbook). Be sure to
stay in touch, and all the best to you as you embark on your post-graduation adventures!
HOYA SAXA,
The Career Education Center





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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. FINDING THE JOB 4
a. RSUMS 5
b. COVER LETTERS 11
c. WRITING SAMPLES 14
d. THE JOB SEARCH 16
e. INTERVIEWING 19
f. REFERENCES 33
g. NETWORKING 34
h. NEGOTIATION 41


2. ON THE JOB 47
a. DRESSING FOR SUCCESS 48
b. YOUR FIRST 90 DAYS 50
c. PERSONAL GOAL SETTING 57
d. LEAVING YOUR FIRST JOB 58
e. THOUGHTS ON BEING A PROFESSIONAL 61


3. MANAGING YOUR FINANCES 62
a. LIVING IN THE REAL WORLD: DEBT, SAVINGS, EXPENSES 63
b. HEALTH INSURANCE 71
c. RETIREMENT PLANS 75


4. RELOCATING 78
a. FINDING YOUR NEW HOME 79
b. MOVING INTO YOUR HOME 87


5. ESTABLISHING YOURSELF 89
a. MEETING PEOPLE 90
b. WORK/LIFE BALANCE 92
c. STAYING HEALTHY, PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY 94
d. RECOGNIZING WHEN TO SEEK HELP 97
e. CHANGING CAREERS 98


6. CONCLUSION 100

7. REFERENCES 101

8. APPENDIX 103
a. INDUSTRY SPECIFIC WEB SITES
b. SAMPLE BUDGET WORKSHEET
c. JOB SEARCH DOCUMENTS
d. INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS
e. INTERVIEWING GUIDE
f. GRADUATE SCHOOL GUIDE
g. ALUMNI PROGRAMS & SERVICES AT THE CAREER EDUCATION CENTER
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FINDING THE JOB
5

RSUMS
What thoughts come to mind when you hear the word rsum? For some people, it can be a scary word.
Creating one is often a daunting task. Keep in mind, though, that its like your job search license: you cannot
get in the door without one, and it has to be good.
Lets begin by outlining what a rsum is and why it is so important to your job search. The rsum is the
document that summarizes your education, accomplishments, and abilities. It provides employers with an
understanding about who you are and what you can offer their organization. More often than not, your
rsum will be your first impression before an employer. Thus, your rsum must present your wow factor
as a candidate. Remember how important the golden ticket was in the movie Willie Wonka and the
Chocolate Factory? It provided the owner access to the place of his dreams. The same will be true of you
and your rsum. If indeed your rsum is packaged with the most applicable and relevant information about
your experiences as it relates to what an employer is looking for, your rsum will be your golden ticket to an
interview.

R s um For mat s
Consider your rsum as telling your story to employers. Just as each literary genre presents a different type of
narrative, your rsum can be formatted in a way that best represents the information you wish to convey.
The formats most relevant to you at this point in your career are the chronological and combination layouts.
Be aware of what each type of rsum offers and select the format which will best display your strengths.
Chronological Rsums
The chronological format is the most commonly used by college students and recent graduates. It organizes
your education and experiences in reverse chronological order beginning with the most recent information
in each section. It allows the reader to easily follow the progression of your relevant accomplishments.
Combination Rsums
This rsum format highlights your most relevant experience through targeted sections in chronological
order. Work experiences are listed in reverse chronological order, under functional categories (e.g. Finance,
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Legal, etc.). This allows you to highlight your qualifications as they relate to the specific skills employers are
seeking.
Functional Rsums
The more experienced job seeker generally uses a functional rsum. It is most helpful in providing a method
to organize a variety of differing work experiences or assist a career-changer in highlighting transferrable
skills. Most employers are not as familiar with this style of rsum.
R s um Cont e nt
Writing your rsum is like preparing a meal. All the necessary ingredients must be intentionally added
together to produce the desired outcome. This section will highlight all the components needed for a well-
crafted rsum.
Header/Contact Information
Your name is the first piece of the information listed. It should be in bold and in a font size
larger than the text used on remainder of your rsum.
Below your name, include:
o Current mailing address (if you choose to list a permanent address, please include
the date when its use will be applicable).
o Telephone number(s) (specify the locations if more than one is listed).
o E-mail address.
All the information you list should represent you in a professional manner. Its time to say
goodbye to unprofessional voicemail messages and the GuHoyaDiva@gmail.com e-mail
address.
Education
Create an entry for each educational experience. This includes any degrees attained or a
study-abroad experience. List your most recent education first.
Each entry should include the university, your school, major(s), minor(s), and a graduation
date (month and year).
GPA should be included if it is over a 3.0 yet the decision to include or exclude it is
ultimately up to you. Dont forget to list it on a 4.0 scale.
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Academic honors, awards, or scholarships may be included, but consider space and
relevancy.
A list of three to six related courses may be included to highlight your academic curriculum
and rigor. This is also a way of targeting a rsum for a specific job, since you will choose the
courses to reflect skills highlighted in each specific job description.
Experience
This is the section where you must decide which rsum format best represents your
experiences and accomplishments.
The entries in this section may include jobs, internships, and volunteer experiences.
Each entry should include:
o Title of the position.
o Name of the organization and location (city and state).
o Dates (month and year).
o Descriptive statements about your responsibilities and accomplishments.
! Use strong action verbs to begin each sentence (See the Action Verb List in the
Appendix for examples).
! Give context when possible quantify results when applicable.
Activities
Display your involvement outside of the classroom, such as on-campus leadership and
participation, sports, and volunteer involvement.
Each entry should include a description of responsibilities and accomplishments.
Skills
Any of the following types of skills can be included:
o Languages (speaking, reading, writing, comprehension) Including a detailed
description of your skill.
o Technical skills (computer software programs or laboratory skills).
o Specific training or certification programs completed.




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He l pf ul R s um Re mi nde r s
It is imperative to consider the audience or industry to which you are writing. The general rsum rules apply
across the board, yet it is worthwhile to note that there are some unique dynamics that you should be aware
of depending on your particular field of interest.
Below is a table that may assist in differentiating between various industries and what their rsums may
require. Please note these are general guidelines.
Industry Layout Format Length Unique/Additional
sections
Sciences Conservative,
traditional
Chronological 1 + pages Technical or laboratory skills
Business Conservative,
traditional
Chronological,
Combination
1 page Relevant coursework,
Outcomes specific
Government Conservative,
detailed
Chronological,
Combination both
very detailed
1+ pages Security Clearances, additional
personal information
(citizenship, SSN, veterans
status), Work history salary
Marketing/PR and
other creative fields
Creative, flexible Chronological 1 page May require portfolio, writing
sample
Education Conservative,
traditional
Chronological,
Combination
1 page Leadership, teaching
experience

It is worth noting that the page length recommendations are listed with the undergraduate student population
in mind. Alumni with experience may have a longer rsum. Remember to list only the most relevant
information for each position.



No matter your industry or status of student or alumni, remember the goal of the rsum is to represent your
experiences as they relate to the requirements of a specific job description.
Keep your rsum short and to the point and dont drone on for page after bragging page.
I have always tried to follow that advice and now, as someone interviewing job applicants,
am especially grateful for those that also follow that approach. It makes it easier to get a
sense of the person without wading through a lot of chaff. BH, Law 73
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The rsum basics have been described for you. The following is a summary list of things to remember when
creating your document so that you can best represent your experiences in a way that matches what
employers are seeking.
He l pf ul Hi nt s :
Always tell the truth. Be sure your rsum is an accurate portrayal of who you are and what you have
done.
Tailor your rsum. Be sure to read thoroughly through the position description. Maybe even circle
or highlight the key phrases that describe what skills an employer desires. Then, use this as a guide to
ensure your rsum parallels the skills sought in the position description.
Be concise. Your rsum is a summary of the most relevant and applicable experiences you have had.
Whet the employers palate to bring you in for an interview so you can tell him or her more. One
page in length is generally a good rule of thumb, but be aware of the exceptions to this rule. Curricula
vitae (CV), rsums for industries such as the federal government, and rsums for graduate school
applications tend to be longer in length.
Appearance matters. Use the margins, fonts, and headers to neatly lay out and clearly organize your
rsum. If it is not reader-friendly, employers wont read it.
Consistency is key. Use the same entry format and date layout for each experience listed on your
rsum.
Grammar counts. Be sure to use the appropriate verb tense to describe current or past experiences.
Do not use the word I or other first-person pronouns.
Omit personal information. For positions in the United States, do not include your birth date, marital
status, or other details that may give an employer reason to discriminate against you. Other countries
may have different expectations; Goinglobal, which you can access through the Career Education
Center Web site, is a good source for international rsum guidelines.
Dont assume anything. Provide the reader with details about your experiences. Dont use
abbreviations.
Review your final product. If sending your rsum electronically, it is best to save in a PDF format. If
you cannot, be sure the formatting remains consistent from one software to another. If printing
copies, use rsum paper and a laser printer.
Seek feedback. Always have another pair of eyes review your rsum before sending it to employers.
The Career Education Center has walk-in appointments for this very purpose. If you are no longer
local, ask a friend, parent, or other professional to read through your document for grammar, as well
as content.
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Addi t i onal R s um Re s our c e s
There are a number of great resources to assist you in your rsum preparation. In the Appendix of the
Handbook are a few rsum samples for your review. Please take some time to read through the examples
and see completed rsum documents in their ideal form. In addition, review a few of the books and Web
sites listed below:
Yates, M. (2008). Knock Em Dead Rsums: Smart advice to make your online and paper rsums
more productive. 8 ed. Avon, MA: Adams Media.
Vault Guide: www.vault.com/wps/portal/usa/articles/rsumscover
CareerOneStop is sponsored by the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training
Administration Rsum Tutorial Web Site http://acinet.org/acinet/rsum/rsum_intro.asp
The Ladders: https://cdn.theladders.net/static/images/editorial/actionverbs2.pdf
And finally, as always, feel free to utilize the Career Education Center in person or via the Web, for
additional support.
Career Education Centers Web site: http://careerweb.georgetown.edu
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COVER LETTERS
The cover letter is the document that complements your rsum. It provides the hiring manager with some
introductory context for why they should consider you as a candidate. The cover letter, in its one-page
format, is the narrative about who you are and why you are applying for a particular position. There are some
specific questions to be addressed, yet the cover letter allows room for you to be creative in capturing the
reader through written communication.
The cover letter should answer the following questions:
Who are you? Introduce yourself. Be sure to include your major and year at Georgetown (or that
youre a graduate).
Why are you writing? Indicate the reason for writing, the specific position for which you are
applying, and the source from which you learned of the position. If you have a personal contact, or
some direct experience with the company, be sure to mention it.
Why are you interested in the position? Describe how the position and the company relate to
your own professional interests and experiences. The employer wants to know you have a genuine
interest in what the organization has to offer. Be specific! Research the company first!
How are you qualified? Highlight relevant skills, experiences, or academic achievements that
demonstrate your qualifications. Provide information that will set you apart from other candidates.
Remember to use the job description as a guide for what attributes the employer is seeking. Do not
reiterate your rsum.
What is your next step? Refer readers to your enclosed rsum. State that you will follow up with
them, within a given timeframe, to confirm receipt of your full application. You may even want to
make mention of your interest in interviewing for the position, unless the job description specifies
not to. Be sure to include your contact information (telephone number and e-mail).
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Cove r Le t t e r Gui de :
Your Present Address
City, State Zip Code
Date

Employers Name
Title
Organization Name
Street Address
City, State Zip Code

Re: Job Vacancy Title, Announcement, etc.

Dear Employers Name:

(First Paragraph) Introduce yourself. Indicate the reason you are writing, the specific position for which you
are applying, and how you heard about the position opening. If you are inquiring about jobs in general and
there is no specific opening, indicate your interest in career opportunities within your desired field.

(Second Paragraph) Express why you are interested in the position. Highlight three or four skills and
accomplishments as they relate to the position for which you are applying how you are qualified. Provide
concrete examples that demonstrate use of specific skills. Include language used in the position description to
best align yourself with what the employer is seeking.

(Third Paragraph) Refer the reader to your enclosed rsum. Request an interview (if appropriate) and express a
final reason why the employer should consider you as a candidate. Make a statement that you will follow up
with the employer, indicating a specific time frame. List your contact information for the employers
convenience if he or she wishes to contact you. Thank the employer for considering you for the position.

Sincerely,
(Your written signature)
Your typed name
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He l pf ul Hi nt s :
The cover letter should be written in a business format and targeted to each position and employer.
Address your cover letter to a specific individual. If no name is given on the position announcement,
do some research or call the organization. As a last resort, use Dear Hiring Manager: or Dear
Search Committee:
Be concise. The cover letter should include three to four paragraphs on one page, but it should not
be a full page. Use every sentence wisely.
Highlight three or four skills most relevant to the position and provide concrete examples that
demonstrate those skills.
Consider using the same header and font style on your cover letter and rsum.
Be sure to have your cover letter proofread multiple times!

When applying for a job that doesnt request a cover letter, it might be a good idea to submit one anyway
unless specifically asked to only send a rsum. After all, this is one more page that will allow you to stand out
from the sea of applicants and sell yourself well to the employer. However, when you submit a cover letter,
its important to ensure that your letter is flawless with professional language, perfect grammar, and
relevancy to the organization. A less-than-perfect cover letter can do much more harm than good, so have
your document reviewed more than once. If you choose not to send a cover letter in this instance, use the
body of the email to the potential employer to professionally introduce yourself and attach your rsum.

Addi t i onal Cove r Le t t e r Re s ourc e s
There are a number of great resources to assist you in your cover letter preparation, including examples in the
Appendix. In addition, review a few of the books and Web sites listed below:
Yate, M. (2010). Knock em Dead Cover Letters: The strategies and samples you need to get the job
you want. 9 ed Avon, MA.: Adams Media
Quintessential Careers: Dynamic Cover Letters for Job Seekers
www.quintcareers.com/cover_letter_samples.html
Cover Letter Writing: Communicating with Employers Effectively, Webinar conducted by Jennifer
Blanck of the Georgetown Public Policy Institute
http://www7.georgetown.edu/advancement/alumni/careerservices/Communicating_with_Employe
rs_Effectively.html
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WRITING SAMPLES
Some employers will ask you to submit samples of your writing as a part of your application. Writing samples
are pretty straightforward. They are simply examples of your written work, which demonstrate your ability to
analyze and interpret information, and display your communication skills. Generally, jobs that require written
communication are those that request these samples. Most frequently, these fields include advertising,
journalism, public relations, law, media, and research. Approach the writing sample as an opportunity to show
employers how well you can express yourself in writing.
Gui de l i ne s f or Pr e par i ng Wr i t i ng Sampl e s
When selecting a writing sample to submit, always consider the quality and content of your work. If you have
completed an assignment for a course or submitted a publication and its length and content meet the
specified writing sample criteria noted in the job description, feel free to use it as your submission. If not, take
some time and prepare a new sample that will best represent your written abilities.
The quality of your submission should be your top priority. Be sure to put your best work on display for an
employer to review. Know your audience and ensure the style of writing contains elements appropriate to the
industry. Use clear and concise language, including the terminology of the industry. Finally, review and revise
your writing sample for grammatical and typographical errors.
Employers may specify the subject matter they wish your writing sample to address. If they do not, submit
something that would parallel the type of writing you would be expected to do within the position. For
example, say you are applying for a position within a public relations firm; something similar to a press release
might be most appropriate. If the position is related to research, a sample that contains information from a
variety of sources and includes appropriate citations would bode well.




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He l pf ul Hi nt s :
Do not submit a writing sample unless it is specifically requested. If you are unsure, reach out to the
employer and ask.
Follow the application instructions. Most employers will specify how many pages in length they
expect the sample to be. If they do not specify, submit two to five pages of writing, double-spaced.
You may also use an excerpt from a longer document; simply mention that you are submitting only a
selection from a longer document.
Submit only your own work. If you incorporate others work, cite your sources.
Present your writing samples in a professional manner. Clearly label each submission with an
appropriate title and origin (if necessary). If providing hard copies, use rsum paper or put them
into a presentation binder.
Be sure to redact any privileged or sensitive information.
Do not use anything too old; you want to make sure that you are giving employers a recent example
of the quality of your work.















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THE JOB SEARCH
Whe re t o St ar t ?
Whether you are someone who knows exactly what you want your next step to be, or one who has no clue at
all, it is important to approach the job search process realistically and with purpose.
Know who you are and what you have to offer. What five words would you use to describe yourself? Would
the description of smart, creative, inquisitive, fun, and loyal be most fitting? What about outgoing, driven,
caring, confident, and independent? Maybe your words would be collaborative, fun, bold, Socratic, and
straightforward. Whatever your combination, hold fast to them, be proud of them, and allow them to guide
you in the search process. The job search is often a time consuming affair that requires lots of energy, focus,
and endurance. Go into the process expecting the best outcomes, because you have a great deal to offer. As
you embark upon the next chapter in the narrative of your life, do it all living up to and out of your truest
self; the destination, no matter where the place or what the title, will be inevitably sweeter if you do.
In addition to living out your truest self as you navigate the job search process, it is also worthwhile to be
confident in the educational preparation and enriching collegiate experiences that have nurtured you during
your time at Georgetown University. Georgetowns distinctive culture as a national university rooted in the
Catholic faith, committed to spiritual inquiry, engaged in the public sphere, and invigorated by religious and
cultural pluralism has shaped the person you have become (Georgetown University, 2009). Be proud of the
rich academic tradition that you have been part of and use it as a springboard to your future.
Se l f - Re f l e c t i on
In keeping with the spirit of the Jesuit tradition, challenge yourself to spend some time contemplating what
your expectations are of the job search process. The time of meditation and reflection should include some of
the following thoughts:
What are your skills, values and interests?
What do you really love doing?
In what environments do you feel your best?
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Understanding some of the basics about who you are can help you find areas in which you may use your skills
and enjoy your work. There are some great exercises outlined on careerweb.georgetown.edu to help inform
this process.
Re s e ar c h
Once you have done some self-reflection, the next step is to do some research on how those preferences fit
into job settings.
Vault: http://www.vault.com Vault provides career guides, employer profiles, discussion boards,
industry blogs, an internship database and much more. Access to Vault.com is free for all
Georgetown undergraduate students; simply create an account using your Georgetown e-mail
address. Once you graduate from Georgetown, access to Vault is by personal subscription only.
CareerSearch: http://www.careersearch.com CareerSearch is an industry research tool with a
database of more than 3 million organizations from 47 career fields in the U.S. and abroad.
O*Net: http://online.onetcenter.org O*Net is a free online tool for career exploration and job
analysis. It provides detailed descriptions of a variety of career options for job seekers, students,
workforce development, HR professionals, and more.
Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://bls.gov/oco The Occupational Outlook Handbook
provides the public with detailed information (training and education requirements, salary,
working conditions, etc.) about hundreds of jobs in the U.S. The Handbook also provides job
search tips and information about the job market in each state.
These are just a few of the resources available to you as you begin to explore in your job search process.

Ide nt i f y Pot e nt i al Empl oye r s
Once you have completed some general research about various companies and industries, you are ready to
begin identifying available employment opportunities. There are a number of great places to assist you as you
begin to identify organizations that offer the types of opportunities you are seeking and better yet, ones you
did not even realize were available to you.



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General Job Search Sites
Hoya Career Connection (HCC): https://georgetown-csm.symplicity.com
" Hoya Career Connection (HCC) is the Georgetown University job and internship database
maintained by the Career Education Center.
" The site houses full-time and part-time permanent positions, full-time and part-time internships,
and fellowships.
" Hoya Career Connection access is provided to undergraduate students, graduate students from
select programs, as well as alumni of all the aforementioned programs. As an undergraduate
student you were automatically uploaded into the system. Students have access to the site by
logging in with the NetID and self-selected password. After graduation, alumni still have access
to their HCC account using their previous login information. Undergraduate alumni interested in
access to the system, may contact the Career Education Center for more information about login
information.
MonsterTrak: http://college.monster.com
Indeed: www.indeed.com
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INTERVIEWING
Lets face it: for many seniors or recent grads, few things are scarier than job interviews. These tips from the
Vault Guide to Rsums, Cover Letters, and Interviews (2003) can help give you a bit of perspective:
Someone at the organization likes you and thinks you have a chance to contribute. You havent been
called in to be tortured you have a real shot at getting hired.
Every interviewing experience you have will prepare you to do better in the next one.
The people sitting across from you were once sitting on the hot seat just like you, and they survived
and got the job even though their voice trembled a bit and their knees knocked a little. Everyones
been through the situation and knows what its like.
As with so much of life, preparation is the key to success; its also the key to alleviating stress about upcoming
interviews. Youll want to prepare for your interview in two main ways the first deals with substance, and
the second with style. Your substance preparation will involve additional research on the industry,
organization, and position at hand as well as some practice in making connections between them and your
skills, experiences, and professional goals. The style preparation is more straightforward: youll want to
make sure you know details such as how to get to the interview, what to bring with you, and what to wear.



Subs t anc e
During the interview process you will be judged on how well you meet the following criteria:
Are you capable of doing the job successfully?
Do you wholeheartedly want the job?
Are you able to relate well to the interviewer and other staff?
Do you present a professional appearance and demeanor?
Preparing for the interview therefore requires that you assess your interests and skills, and research the
organization and the position for which you are interviewing. Doing the following exercise will help you
articulate your experiences to an interviewer. You also will have a list of examples ready to support your
assertions.
Read the local newspapers for the city where youre interviewing. Have an idea of
local issues that may be on the interviewers mind and, if interviewing with a large
company, how that company interacts locally (such as working with charitable
organization, funding local causes, etc.). JJS, MSB 90, Law 94
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Review the job description of the position for which you are interviewing.
Make a list of pertinent functions of the job and the skills and experiences needed.
Make a list of your experiences and how you have developed and strengthened your skills.
Some organizations will post bios of employees online; do a little reading to get a sense of the people
with whom you may be speaking during your interview.
St yl e
Bring copies of your rsum and cover letter that are printed on rsum paper (available at the Georgetown
bookstore and office supply stores). Employers should already have copies, but its wise to have them just in
case. Buy or borrow a padfolio (fancy leather folder with a pocket for a notebook, pen, and your documents)
to keep your materials together and to provide a space for you to take notes between interviews or after the
experience.
Make absolutely, 100% sure that you know how to get to your interview. Practice driving or taking public
transport during the same time of day that youll make the trip for the real thing. Traffic can be difficult and
hard to predict, especially in Washington, DC or other large cities. Aim to arrive at the interview site a half
hour early so that youll have plenty of time to park, take a deep breath, use the restroom, or anything else
you might need before entering the office. Dont forget to turn off your phone!
Int e r vi e w Dr e s s
The most basic rule of thumb to use when deciding what to wear for an interview is this: the simpler, the
better. Think vanilla. Contrary to what some students may think, this is not an early sign of submission to
The Man. Loud, revealing, or unusual clothing is a distraction during an interview. It will serve you well if
your statements and your personality are the most memorable thing about you (as opposed to your flashy tie
or those heels that you usually wear to Rhino). Even if your preferred industry is highly creative or known to
be informal, be careful. It's always better to convey your serious interest in the position by overdressing.
So what does that look like? Here are some general tips:
Research the preferred dress at the office you will be visiting. Many workplaces prefer a professional
dark business suit (black, dark blue, grey), but some offices may prefer less traditional dress. When in
doubt, ask someone at the company or in the industry for suggestions.
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Skip the aftershave, cologne, or perfume; because some people are allergic to various scents, the
safest route is to refrain from using them altogether.
Bring a briefcase or portfolio for your extra rsums, note paper, breath mints, etc.

Me n
Wear a conservative tie.
Arrive clean shaven.
Wear polished shoes that match or complement your suit. Dont be afraid to ask for an opinion
from a roommate.
Limit jewelry to a watch, ring, and/or cufflinks.

Wome n
Wear conservative jewelry (i.e., small earrings, one ring instead of three, small necklace).
Wear stockings or pantyhose with a skirt.
Keep your hair away from your face, if possible.
Wear conservative makeup and nail polish. Again, were not trying to cramp your style we just
want your personality to shine thanks to your words, not thanks to the new nail color from OPI.
Dont wear a low-cut blouse. Blouses need to be buttoned to the top or second-to-top button.
Dont wear open-toe shoes or shoes with heels higher than two inches. Its worth it to invest in a
simple pair of black or brown flats or low heels. If you need to buy them for the interview, chances
are youll need to buy them for the job a few weeks later anyway.
Be sure to try on your outfit well in advance of your interview to make sure everything fits and looks
professional.
You might be thinking, In that case, I have nothing to wear!
Borrow a roommates things if you need to. Additionally, take advantage of local thrift stores or secondhand
shops to help build your professional wardrobe. Because there are so many affluent neighborhoods in close
proximity to Georgetown, its often easy to find some nicely appointed items for a fraction of what youd pay
shopping on M Street. Below are some examples; call or visit the Web site to get a sense of price points and
current offerings.

22

Frugalista (thrift shop for men and women)
3069 Mt. Pleasant
Washington, DC
202-328-2135
Mon - Sat: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sun: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

Mustard Seed (secondhand shop for women)
http://www.mustardseedshop.com/
7349 Wisconsin Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20814

Current Boutique (secondhand shop for women)
http://www.currentboutique.com/
Arlington location:
2529 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22201
Alexandria location:
1009 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314

Mint Condition (secondhand shop for women)
http://www.shopmintcondition.com/
114 S. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Di f f e r e nt Type s of Int e r vi e ws
When we think of interviews, we often picture a formal setting where we are face-to-face with one person
who has the power to hire us. Regardless of the setting or number of people involved, interviews are
designed to determine quickly if there is a match between an employer and the candidate. Typically,
interviews are between 30 minutes and one hour in length; you may have just one or a string of multiple
interviews. Regardless of the format, keep in mind that you are being interviewed from the moment you step
foot in the building, with everyone you encounter.
Face-to-Face Single Interviewer
Well start by talking about a common interview experience, where a candidate meets with one person from
the organization and answers a variety of questions. As an interview begins, both the employer and candidate
are trying to establish rapport. An employer may cite an item from your rsum or commence the interview
with an open-ended question such as, Tell me a little about yourself, or Why are you interested in my
23

organization? Respond to the questions as though he or she was asking, Why do you want to be in this
interview room? Employers want to know that you are focused.
Te l l Me About Your s e l f : The 90- Se c ond Re s pons e
The question tell me about yourself is often the first question asked in an interview. What sort of answers
are employers looking for in this question?

This and other open-ended questions are asked to see how well you can focus your answers to the position
for which you are interviewing. Responses to this question should show how your skills, interests, and
experiences would contribute to the position and organization.

Use a 90-second guideline when answering this question:
Focus the first 15 seconds on any relevant and appropriate personal information you wish to share
(e.g. where you are from)
Focus the next 30 seconds on your academic experience (e.g. what you are studying, any study-
abroad experience)
Focus the next 30 seconds on your professional experience (e.g. leadership activities, internships)
Use the last 15 seconds to discuss why you are interested in the position (given the background you
just discussed)

Remember, this is a short answer; give highlights of your experiences and focus your answer. Before the
interview, spend some time writing down the experiences you wish to discuss and then practice how you
want to answer the question.

During this time, also assess the employer. Is he or she relaxed or formal, focused or conversational? You
may want to adapt your strategy to the style of the interviewer, but always remember to be professional.
Behavioral interview questions are among the most commonly asked during job or internship interviews.
Essentially, the employer will ask you to recount a situation youve encountered. By listening to the
description and analysis of your past behavior, he or she can get a pretty good sense of how you might
respond to something similar in the future. Below are some examples of behavioral questions:
Tell me about a time when you had to work with a group to solve a problem.
Give me an example of your research skills.
When have you failed?
Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a stressful situation.
Of course, you know that a successful answer will be concise but thoughtful but how can you structure
your answer so that you share enough context and help the employer learn something new and relevant?
24

The SCAR technique offers a way to outline behavioral answers:
S Si t uat i on: Describe a situation/task which will allow you to illustrate your strengths.
Example: In my last year at Georgetown, I was assigned to lead a team to perform 30 hours of community service for
a class.
C Chal l e nge : Briefly identify the challenge you faced in the situation.
Example: One team member wasnt showing up for meetings, despite constant reminders of the importance of
attendance.
A Ac t i on: Describe the specific action you took to remedy the situation.
Example: I decided to meet with the student in private and explained the frustration of other team members, then
asked him if there was anything I could do to help. He said he was preoccupied with another course, so I found him
some help with that course.
R Re s ul t : Explain the result of your action. Make sure the outcome reflects positively on you.
Example: After I found that student help, he not only was able to attend the meetings, he also was grateful to me for
helping him. We were able to complete the community service project on time.
Make sure that you have a deep bench of anecdotes. As you practice answering example questions in our
Appendix or through the Career Education Center resources, you may notice that your responses draw
exclusively from your involvement in a particular club. Consider anecdotes from your courses, from clubs or
other extracurricular activities, from internships, from study-abroad experiences, from athletic endeavors, and
other spheres of your life.
What if I dont know the answer?
Dont be afraid of silence. Taking a few seconds to collect your thoughts may feel painfully
awkward, but chances are that youll end up looking more thoughtful and composed than if you had
just jumped into a rambling answer to avoid silence.
Clarify the question. Make sure you heard the interviewer correctly.
Be honest. If youve never thought about the issue or question at hand before, its okay to say so.
Speak to a related topic and then follow up if you come up with some thoughts either later in the
interview or in writing after the interview.
Face-to-Face Serial Interviews
Given that you will work with multiple people or departments within an organization, its not uncommon to
experience multiple interviews in a row on the same day. Everyone wants a chance to get to know you.
Before the interview, try to get a good picture of what your day will look like. E-mail your contact to ask a
25

question such as the following: I am writing to ask if you could tell me about the structure of next
Thursdays day of interviews.
As you go through your interviews, find a balance between consistency and variety. Your statements
regarding your motivation for pursuing work at their organization should be consistent. And yet, as different
people ask you different questions, draw on that deep bench of anecdotes and use a variety of stories to
illustrate your answers. Often, interviewers compare notes after your interviews are over; if you use the same
story about your group history paper to answer questions about working with difficult people, managing lots
of information, and meeting deadlines, they might wonder if thats all youve got.
Between interviews, make a few notes about your conversation so that youll be able to write specific thank-
you notes to each interviewer. Examples of notes might include the interviewers position within the
organization, how he or she answered the questions you asked, a few of the questions he or she asked you,
and perhaps some additional information you wish you had shared so that you can follow up in your note.
Additionally, take employers up on their offer to give you water or let you use the bathroom during a break!
Use those brief moments of solitude to breathe deeply and assess how things are going so far.
Face-to-Face Panel or Group Interviews
When interviewing with multiple people at once, it will serve you well to remember a few things both before
and during the interview. As you meet your interviewers, take time to greet each person individually and take
note of your interviewers names as well as their positions within the organization.
As you go through the interview, its likely that each person will have a turn to ask you a question. As you
begin your answer, maintain eye contact with the person who posed the question and then vary it among the
other people in the room. It is normal for your interviewers to take notes as you talk as with any interview
situation, keep your answers specific and concise.
Face-to-Face The Lunch Interview
Given that some interviews last several hours, continuing the process over lunch is a practical way for
employers to keep getting to know you. Going to lunch with employers is not a break from the interview,
26

however your hosts will be watching your behavior, demeanor, and your language to gauge your
professionalism and fit with their organization.
In short, follow the lead of your hosts and treat the experience not as a break but as a new way to show just
how professional and congenial you are. Below are some more specific tips for you. Several are taken from
Business Etiquette in Brief (Sabath, 1993), a classic book from the Career Education Center library.
Be f or e t he me al : Brush up on current events, sports stories, or other general news so you can contribute to
conversations that may drift away from the organization and your potential position. Consider looking at the
restaurants menu online to make sure you are familiar with terms (haricots verts are green beans; who knew?)
and pronunciation.
If you are meeting an employer at an establishment, make sure you are familiar with your driving route and
parking options in advance. Arrive early (ten minutes or so) to give yourself some breathing room. Wait in
the lobby unless you are told to do otherwise. If you are seated first, wait until the other guests arrive before
ordering something to drink.
Turn off your phone!
Dur i ng t he me al : When you and your hosts are escorted to your table, make sure your hosts are seated first.
While this may sound elementary, sit up straight, put your napkin in your lap (once everyone has been seated),
and keep your elbows off the table.
Your drinks will be to your right, and little plates for salad or bread will be to your left. You may be
presented with more utensils than normal (i.e., two forks and two spoons). The best rule of thumb is to use
the outside utensils first (for example, use the smaller, outside fork for the salad) and work your way in.
Treat your servers with total respect. Employers will often observe your treatment of all people, not just
those at the table with you. An example of this would be waiting for the server to come back to your table if
you have a request for butter rather than flagging him down like a taxi.
27

Consider ordering an entre that is in the mid-price range (not the cheapest thing on the menu, but certainly
not the most expensive either). If youre feeling unsure about this, you might ask the employer what he or
she recommends to get a sense of what to order. Also consider getting an entre that is relatively easy to eat
(pasta dishes or entrees with a lot of cheese tend not to fall into this category). We advise you to refrain from
ordering alcohol, even if your host orders an alcoholic beverage. You need to stay sharp at all times
throughout the interview, and even one drink puts that in jeopardy.
If possible, try to maintain a similar pace of eating as your dining companions. If you are eating more slowly
than others, ask a question to give yourself some time to eat while they talk for a bit.
Af t e r t he me al : While you may have gotten used to wrapping up extra chicken fingers from Leos during
your time at Georgetown, it is not appropriate to ask for a box for leftovers during a business meal.
Keep your napkin in your lap until everyone has finished eating. Place it to the right of your plate. It is
customary for the employer to pay for a meal to which you were invited; show your appreciation verbally and
later through writing as you compose your thank-you notes.
Telephone Interviews
Employers could ask you for a phone interview for a variety of reasons they may want to talk with several
candidates to determine selections for in-person interviews, or they may simply be in a different location and
want to speak with you without having to travel.
Be f or e t he Phone Int e r vi e w: Choose a place to conduct the phone interview without distractions. If you
choose to interview in your room or apartment, be sure to let your roommates know that you will be
interviewing.
Set up your space. Have a glass of water handy just in case; keep your rsum and the job description in clear
view; have pen and paper ready to take notes on questions and answers immediately after the interview.
Consider making a short list of accomplishments or things you think the employer should know about you
28

that make the connection between your skills and the position at hand. Remove food or any other potentially
distracting items.
Set up your equipment as well. When using a cell phone, make sure you can get a good signal in the chosen
location (sometimes landlines are the most reliable thing). Turn off call waiting. Make sure that your cell
phone batteries are charged. Lastly, set yourself up! Get dressed and cleaned up for the phone interview
feeling like a professional will help you convey confidence. Rehearse answers to typical interview questions
and be sure that your answers are organized and concise.
Dur i ng t he Int e r vi e w: Scheduled telephone interviews normally last between 20 and 30 minutes, though
some can last up to an hour. Jot down names and titles of your interviewers immediately so you remember
the folks to whom youre speaking. Smile and sit up straight, as silly as it might sound it can help you build
rapport and show that you are enthusiastic about the organization and position. Speak clearly, enunciate, and
draw from your notes without reading them verbatim. When an interviewer is speaking, dont interrupt. Let
him or her know if you are having difficulty hearing questions.
Finally, dont be afraid of a little silence. Follow interviewers cues, and dont ramble to fill silences.
Additionally, as in any interview, its okay if you take a moment to compose your thoughts before jumping in
to answer a question. A moment of silence isnt nearly as awkward as it may seem.
Af t e r t he Int e r vi e w: Immediately jot down notes about what you were asked and how you answered. Note
parts of the conversation that you feel went very well, and perhaps aspects that didnt go as well (for use in
future interview preparation). Identify points that you would like to clarify or expand on in a follow-up
interview, topics that require additional research or preparation, and additional questions that you have for
the interviewers. Send a thank-you note via e-mail or regular mail within 24 hours of the interview (weve got
a whole section on thank-you notes below).


29

Int e r vi e w Sampl e Que s t i ons
Employers will often have industry or organization-specific questions for you, but you can bet that youll get
at least a few of the below questions in some form or fashion. Practicing your answers in front of a mirror or
with a friend will help you immensely; actually saying the words out loud is a different experience than
rehearsing them in your head.
Relate your studies and/or experience to this job. What do you want out of your career?
Why are you interested in working for __________?
Why do you think you would like this type of work?
What is your greatest strength? Weakness?
Why did you choose your particular major?
Why did you choose to attend Georgetown?
What qualifications do you have that will make you successful in the field?
Tell me about a time where you showed initiative.
When have you failed, and what did you learn from the experience?
In what ways has college prepared you to take on greater responsibility?
Tell me about a time where you solved a difficult problem.
Tell me about a time where you persuaded a group to do something it was opposed to.
Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
What is your biggest accomplishment?
What would you like to be doing five years from now? Do you plan to attend graduate school?
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list. See an expanded list in our Appendix, consult the Vault Guide to
Rsums, Cover Letters, and Interviews (2003), and connect with contacts within your desired industry to get
a sense of what questions might be asked.
As k Que s t i ons
As the interview winds down, employers will ask whether or not you have any questions. It is imperative that
you ask approximately three or four questions. It is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your career focus
and it is how employers assess the depth of your interest in and knowledge of their organization. Many
employers will not consider a candidate further if he or she does not ask questions. Prepare your questions
before the interview.
30

The following are some typical questions you may want to ask:
What are you looking for in an ideal candidate?
What are the organizations five- and ten-year goals?
How does this department fit into the organizations structure?
Outside my department, who else will I work with?
How did you choose this organization?
What are the things you like most/least about working here?
What has been the most exciting experience youve had while working here?
What is your supervisory style? (Only ask if you are interviewing with your potential boss.)
Ti ps f or Cas e - St yl e Int e r vi e ws
Several industries, particularly management consulting, use case-style interviewing in their assessment of
candidates. This style focuses on a candidates analytical and problem-solving abilities. Problems or cases are
given to the candidate and he or she must work through the case out loud with the interviewer. Employers
will be assessing how a candidate arrives at an answer, not whether the answer is correct.
A case is usually a scenario modeled after a real business or management problem. The idea is to test a
candidates listening skills, analytical and reasoning skills, ability to organize and present information, ability to
perform under pressure, and understanding of basic business principles.
There are several types of case questions:
Classic business questions are given to see how much general business knowledge candidates have
and how they can logically apply this knowledge to a common business problem. There are several
types of business questions which could be posed, in areas such as: profit/loss, organizational
structure, and marketing. An example of this type of question is: An airline finds that, while its
revenues are high, the company is still operating at a loss. What is going on?
Brain teasers are logic questions used to gauge creativity, quantitative skills, and problem-solving
skills. An example of this type of question is: Why are manhole covers round?
Guess the number/estimates are questions in which a candidate needs to use logical deduction
and also general statistical information. An example would be: How many divorces take place in the
United States in any given year?
There are several things you can do to approach a case-style question:
31

Listen carefully.
Take notes.
Summarize the question.
Clarify any points you do not understand.
Take some time to think dont be afraid of silence!
Ask a few questions to show your understanding of the problem and to get more information.
Work through the answer out loud, so the interviewer can evaluate your analytical skills.
Use examples from your classes, internships, or extracurricular activities.
How Do you Pr e par e ?
It is important to remember that the interviewer is often more interested in how you came up with the
answer than the answer itself. Therefore, keep a few things in mind:
Communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
Organize your thoughts logically and speak clearly.
Business experience is not essential however, general knowledge of business practices and theories
is important.
Read industry magazines and journals (both general and specific).
Familiarize yourself with basic statistics, such as the population of the U.S. or China.
There are several resources available both in the Career Center and on the Internet, which can help you
prepare for case-style interviews. Some of the best resources are:
Vault.com Guide to the Case Interview (2005), found in the Career Center Library; also download the
Vault guide for free from the Career Center Web site.
Case in Point, by Marc P. Cosentino (2009) is an excellent book that details potential approaches to
cases as well as common tools and frameworks used for answering case-style questions.
Attend a Case-Style Interviewing workshop at the Career Education Center.
Practice case-style interviewing during a mock interview with an employer or alumni, or by using
online tools available through the Career Education Center.
Wet Feet Ace Your Case (2005), found at the Career Center reception desk and at www.wetfeet.com
Bain and Company: http://www.joinbain.com/apply-to-bain/interview-preparation/default.asp
Boston Consulting Group: http://www.bcg.com/careers/interview_prep/default.html
McKinsey & Company: http://www.mckinsey.com/aboutus/careers/
32

Monitor Group:
www.monitor.com/JoinMonitor/InterviewPhilosophy/CaseInterviewPreparation/tabid/165/L/en-
US/Default.aspx
Thank- You Le t t e r s
Once youve met with someone for an interview, an informational meeting, or even a quick coffee where
information is exchanged, definitely send a thank-you note to express gratitude and leave your new contact
with a fantastic impression of you.
It is generally acceptable to send a thank-you note through e-mail, but it may also be appropriate to
send one through the mail. Handwritten notes are nice, and they are rare; however, make sure you
understand the culture of the office. If you are interviewing for a position with a technology firm, for
example, a handwritten note may send the message that you dont understand the company.
Send the e-mail within 24 hours of the interview. Write it that evening so you wont forget! If you
are also sending a note through the mail, do so within the same time frame. That way, the company
will receive your e-mail right away and will be reminded of you a few days later as well.
If you interview with a group, send a separate thank-you to each person, if possible. It is a nice way
of communicating to people that they were noticed and appreciated as individuals, rather than just as
a group. Vary your message; it is common for people in the same office to compare thank-you notes
theyve received.
The thank-you note can also be a way of either summarizing your interaction or including additional
information that was either requested by the employer or that you neglected to include. You do not,
however, want to use the space solely for that reason.
If you are thanking someone for an encounter more casual than a formal interview, be sure to cite
the specific nature of your meeting. For example, you may write, Thank you so much for taking the
time to speak with me at the Georgetown University Career Fair on October 1. I enjoyed hearing
about the possibilities within your Human Resources division, and I hope to speak with you in
greater detail soon. Consider citing something about yourself that would help the reader remember
you, such as a unique aspect of your conversation.
Take time to ensure that your grammar and spelling are absolutely flawless. In addition, make sure
that you use the correct title for the recipient. If you are typing a letter to send, use the same heading
that you used for your rsum and cover letter; the continuity is a nice detail.
Express your enthusiasm. Reiterate that your interest in a position or company has only grown since
making contact with the person to whom you are writing.
33

REFERENCES
You dont need a line on your rsum to say References available upon request employers assume that you
have three people who can serve as a reference for you if they request this. Whom should you ask for a
reference? Well, that depends. Often, students will choose a mix of professors and supervisors from
internships, on-campus jobs, or other experiences. Think about the job at hand for what skills and
experiences is the employer looking? Lets say the job involves quite a bit of research and writing. If you
know a professor who can speak to this, then its likely that the professor would make a good reference for
this particular position.
Provide your references with plenty of advance notice. Consider notifying them that you are beginning a job
search and ask if you could use them as a reference at some point during that process. Once theyve agreed
and once youve identified a position for which youll need them, send them information that would help
them know more about the organization(s) youre considering and about how you are presenting yourself as a
candidate a job description and a copy of your rsum and cover letter, most likely. If asked for a list of
references, create a simple document with the names, positions, and contact information for each person.
The following is an example:
Mr. Tony Azzaro
Manager and Owner
Tonys Cafe
501 Main Street
Evanston, IL 60000
(630)222-2222
Tony@tonyscafe.com

Consider using the same header for this references document that you use for your rsum and cover letter so
that all of your documents are coordinated. Our rsum and cover letter handout found in the Appendix has
an example for you. If you are thinking about graduate school at some point in the future, and would like to
ask professors for references now while youre still fresh in their minds, consider Interfolio. The Career
Education Center partners with www.interfolio.com, an online portfolio service that allows people to upload
reference letters for you well in advance of your application process. You can store the letters on the site
(while maintaining confidentiality) for years at a time and submit them to potential schools through the site.
34

NETWORKING
Simply put, the term networking describes a variety of actions taken to establish and develop professional
relationships and to exchange information about particular positions, organizations, or industries, for
professional or personal gain. Networking can happen in formal settings, such as during our Careers for the
Common Good event, or in informal settings, such as on an airplane. When its done well, networking is not
schmoozing, asking people to find you a job, or using people exclusively for your own benefit. Its a two-
way street, ideally, where both participants are learning new things and connecting for short-term learning and
long-term career advancement goals.
Networking is important for several reasons. The most compelling, perhaps, is that a large percentage of job
vacancies are never posted for the general public to see. By connecting with people within your desired
industry, you can learn about these undisclosed positions and put yourself ahead of other job seekers. As you
seek to learn about positions or industries, your networking efforts will provide insights beyond what can be
found using online resources, salary calculators, or job descriptions. Even after youve found an internship or
job, networking will continue to serve you well as you consult with others regarding projects, attend
conferences, or seek opportunities for advancement.
How Do I Make Cont ac t ?
Before you contact anyone for networking purposes, make sure that your rsum is updated and absolutely
flawless. Youll use it to give your contacts a sense of your background before meeting them, or will leave it
behind as a reminder of your skills and experience. Once you have established a list of people to contact, set
up an organizational system to help you keep track of correspondence and learning. Students often use a
spreadsheet to organize information:
Name Org Title E-mail Phone How
found?
First
contact
Heard
back?
Mtg
Date
Thank-
you
note?
E.
Martin
IJM Development
Assistant
em@ijm.org 201.555.
1212
Alumni
network
4/12/11
voicemail
Y 8/20 Y
35

The Inf or mat i onal Int e r vi e w
An informational interview is a brief meeting (in person, over the phone, or via e-mail) that allows you to ask
questions regarding a persons career path, his or her current position, appropriate ways to position yourself
for a similar job, job hunting strategies, and more. You can set up informational interviews with personal
contacts, alumni, internship supervisors, professors, or anyone doing something interesting or relevant to
you. E-mail or call people to set up an informational interview. The Career Education Center has a handout
with more details and sample questions. While informational interviews often lead to job or internship
opportunities, its important to remember that the most effective interviews are conducted with the goal of
learning, not simply landing a position. Below is a sample e-mail that a senior or recent graduate might write
to ask an alumnus for an informational interview:
Dear Mr. Smith,
I found your name and contact information on Georgetowns Alumni Network. I am a rising junior in at Georgetown
University, and hope to pursue a career in secondary education upon graduation. Given that you have over five years of
experience within this field, I would so appreciate the chance to ask you a few questions about your career path and your
experience in the public school system in Tennessee.
I realize that this time of year is likely a busy one for you. I am hopeful that you would be willing to speak with me over the
phone or via e-mail at some point during the next two weeks. Please let me know if you are able to talk with me and if so what
method of communication would be preferable. I can be reached at 555-555-1212 or by e-mail at sbraunlin@georgetown.edu.
Thank you very much in advance for your time and insight.
Sincerely,
Susan Braunlin
Once you have completed the informational interview, send a thank-you note immediately. E-mail and
regular mail are both acceptable methods of communication for the thank-you note. Keep a record of your
interviews. Names, titles, addresses, dates, and topics of discussion will help you remember who told you
what, and how to get in touch with your contacts.
36

The El e vat or Spe e c h
Not every networking opportunity has the structure of an informational interview. For less formal situations,
such as a conversation at a conference, you can prepare by drafting and practicing an elevator speech. An
elevator speech is a commercial of sorts that concisely describes your relevant qualifications,
accomplishments, and goals as you move forward. Preparing a personal pitch helps you control your first
impression, convey confidence, and articulate what youre seeking. An example might be as follows:
Hello, Dr. Smith. I attended your session this morning and appreciated your insights regarding BCM theory. My name is
Jack Walter, and I hope to be a future colleague someday. As a sophomore at Georgetown University, I have been taking
coursework in biology and neuroscience as well as working in a lab at the Georgetown Medical Center. I plan to matriculate
directly into a masters program so that I can participate in neural network research. I am particularly interested in your work at
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. May I e-mail you next week to ask some questions about your research there and how
I can position myself for work like yours?
Essentially, an elevator speech should follow the format below. Of course, there is room for flexibility
depending on your goals and context.
1. Who I am.
2. What I want (short-term, long-term).
3. My academic and experiential background (as it relates to what I want).
4. What I can contribute to your organization (not necessary for informational interview).
5. What Im hoping youll do for me.

Who i s i n your Ne t wor k?
Anyone! Make a list of every person you know (friends, relatives, former coworkers, neighbors, and past
acquaintances). It is important to be exhaustive in your brainstorming; you never know what insights,
previous experiences, or connections a cousin or professor may have. The following categories may help you
get started:
Friends and family
Faculty and teachers
Fellow peers and alumni
37

Former coworkers and supervisors
Foundations, associations and conferences
Facebook, LinkedIn, listserves
A note about LinkedIn, for those unfamiliar: LinkedIn.com is a professional networking Web site that can
help you find connections with old friends and new contacts. Groups related to university connections or
professional organizations can often generate leads. Additionally, check out the Answers section on
LinkedIn to pose a question to an industry-specific message board. To learn more about what LinkedIn can
do for you as a student, watch this video: http://learn.linkedin.com/students/step-1/



Other key resources include the Alumni Career Network and Alumni Clubs:
Alumni Career Network: Thousands of alumni have given you access to their contact information
so that you can ask questions about what theyve been up to. The database is searchable by industry,
location, or keyword.
Georgetown Alumni Clubs: If you are hoping to work abroad, check out the International Alumni
Club Web site (http://alumni.georgetown.edu/default.aspx?page=ClassesClubsGroupsClubPages) to
see if an Alumni Club (with events and contacts) exists for the country in which youre interested.

Soc i al Me di a
We need to be frank with you here. Employers can and do check your Facebook and other social networking accounts.
You may have detagged those unfortunate pictures from last weekend or hidden your wall from those who
arent official friends. Unfortunately, that may not be enough. We do hear stories of employers using mutual
friends or sophisticated programs to gain inside access to students profiles, and we certainly hear stories of
students who were eliminated from job or internship candidacy because of incriminating or just immature
posts on their social network pages. Some people have even been asked, during an interview, if they would
be willing to pull up their Facebook page for potential employers to see. We understand that this may be
If you are a senior and dont already have a LinkedIn profile, create one IMMEDIATELY!
This is a very valuable tool in your professional life and an important part of building and
maintaining your network. Always remember that LinkedIn and other online networking sites
are tools and not replacements for building trusted, high-quality relationships. JC, B91
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frustrating to you, but online presence matters in a big way. Google yourself. What comes up when you type
in your name with Georgetown, or your high school, or other combinations? You can bet that some
employers will be doing this; you can be prepared by knowing what theyll find.

Pr of e s s i onal As s oc i at i ons
Every profession or industry has at least one affiliated association to maintain professional standards, handle
PR interactions with media, and facilitate discussions that dictate vision and goals for a profession or industry.
Associations often host conferences or publish documents containing relevant and up-to-date information.
Joining an association will give you access to publications, resources, conferences, job listings, and more.
Simply put, youre gaining a new point of access to the world in which youre hoping to work; youre giving
yourself more opportunities to use the networking tactics weve discussed above. Often, student
memberships are offered at steeply discounted rates. For a searchable list of associations, visit the Weddles
Assocation Directory online (http://www.weddles.com/associations/index.cfm). Additionally, stop by the
Career Education Center to grab a Career Pathways handout for your major or field of interest; various
affiliated professional associations will be listed on the back. Professors can also help you identify some
groups with which to connect.

Car e e r Fai r s
Career Fairs present students with a wide variety of employers offering full-time and internship
opportunities. The Career Education Center hosts two career fairs each year (October and February) for
students and alumni. Dont forget you can come to our career fairs even after you graduate. Search online
to uncover other fairs of interest; for example, Idealist (www.idealist.org) hosts graduate school fairs,
nonprofit career fairs, and global volunteering fairs in a variety of locations (including Washington, DC).
Will you walk away with a job? Well, not usually. That said, career fairs offer an incredible opportunity to
meet employers, ask questions about their organization, learn how you can market yourself more effectively,
and walk away with contacts who will continue to be resources for you as you submit applications.


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Here are some tips to help you prepare:
BEFORE the Career Fair
Research the organizations that interest you. Use the Web and print resources.
Create your elevator speech to help yourself get ready to speak with employers. Deliver it to
someone to practice and get feedback.
Update your professional, one-page rsum. If you are interested in several career fields, have
different versions of your rsum, one for each field. Stop by the Career Center during walk-in hours
to have someone look over your rsum. (Walk-ins are 15-minute, same day appointments.)
Be ready to explain specific items on your rsum.
Be able to explain why you want to work for an organization. If you cant answer that question
clearly and concisely, the employer will likely not be interested in you.
Prepare questions to ask recruiters.

DURING the Career Fair
Be prepared for long lines.
Get there early. Lines get longer as the day progresses, especially around lunch time.
Plan to meet first with employers that are the best matches for you. Then speak with other employers
as time allows.
Make eye contact when introducing yourself.
Give a firm handshake; smile, be polite, and show enthusiasm.
Ask questions about available positions with the company.
Dress professionally!
Listen carefully to what the representative says.
Avoid using filler words or phrases such as you know, like, I mean, you know what I mean.
Speaking professionally is important.
Have enough copies of your rsum. Use good quality rsum paper.
New rules defining what constitutes a job applicant have limited the number of employers who will
accept hard copy rsums at career fairs. Dont be disappointed or discouraged if employers will not
accept a paper copy of your rsum and refer you instead to their Web sites. There may be a legal
reason why they choose not to accept paper rsums. However, continue to have enough hard copy
rsums available for employers who will accept them.
Ask for a business card or keep a list of names and contact information.
Take notes. Keep a pad and pen with you to take notes after speaking with each employer.
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Body language can speak louder than words.
Dont fidget or play with your hairits distracting and employers will notice.
Its a good idea to keep breath mints handy instead of chewing gum.

AFTER the Career Fair
Thank employers with a note or e-mail. Remind them of your interest and availability.
Follow up promptly with employers you promised to send additional information.
Explore your options and be open to new possibilities. Focus more on your interests and less on the
specifics of your degree. Know that business majors can find challenging jobs at nonprofits, and
marketing positions are found in all companies, not just marketing agencies, for example.

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NEGOTIATION
Youve prepared the rsum, completed the research, aced the interview, and now you have a job offer on the
table. Congratulations! It is a great feeling to know the time and energy you have put into being a successful
student and active member of your community have been acknowledged and are being rewarded in the form
of your first professional position.
Amidst all the celebration, there are many elements of the job offer to consider before officially accepting or
declining a position. Negotiation, it is often said, is an art, and thats certainly true. Negotiating what is
important to you when you accept a position will help you feel satisfied with the compensation package
youre earning for your work, and presents you as an articulate, thoughtful professional to your employers
even before your first day on the job.
What i s Ne got i at i on?
Negotiation, or the act of working with someone to come to a mutually beneficial conclusion, happens all the
time. Think about times that youve negotiated with friends or family to reach an outcome that is satisfying
for everyone. Perhaps, in designing a cleaning schedule with roommates, you negotiated that you will do
dishes every week if you never have to vacuum. Or maybe you talked your parents into paying for car
insurance when you were in high school in exchange for driving your little brothers to activities.
Whatever the situation, the truth is that successful negotiation means that you were able to articulate what
you needed or wanted to happen and then present it in a way that was agreeable to the other party. Though
there are different styles of negotiation, we encourage you to be proactive in your search for a solution that
meets the needs of all parties. In negotiating a job offer, that means doing your research, communicating
effectively, and actively listening to your potential employers.
In the book Getting to Yes, Roger Fisher and William Ury (1991) outline a method of negotiation developed by
the Harvard Negotiation Project that has four key points to help you frame your requests:
1. Separate the people from the problem.
2. Focus on interests, not positions.
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3. Invent options for mutual gain.
4. Insist on using objective criteria.
This is a model that can be used in everyday negotiations and can also be applied to negotiations with
employers. Well consider how it can be used in the latter in just a moment.
Why i s Ne got i at i on Impor t ant ?
Negotiating for what you deserve, need, and want can help ensure that you feel truly valued at work. It
lessens the potential, later on, for tension in the workplace revolving around your compensation or how you
are appreciated. In addition, it allows you an opportunity to establish a level of professionalism in your
workplace from the very beginning. Youll show you are educated, articulate, and aware of the value you are
adding to your new company.
In addition, negotiating when you first receive a job offer is often expected. Failing to negotiate may mean
that youll start at a lower rate of pay than colleagues in the same position who did negotiate. This affects
more than just your salary; it could mean a lower amount that goes into your retirement plan each month, and
if your salary increases are based on a percentage of what you make, you will have a smaller increase than
your coworkers who started at a higher salary. This is a well-documented point of difference between the
salaries of men and women in the same position. Often, men ask for an increase and women do not. If youre
interested in learning more, consult books such as A Womans Guide to Successful Negotiation, by Lee E. Miller
and Jessica Miller (2002), or Ask for It, by Linda Babcock and Sara LaSchever (2008); both are available in the
Career Education Center library.
What i s Ne got i abl e ?
Students and new professionals often think that negotiation in the work setting means an attempt to earn a
higher salary. While that can certainly be part of the equation, the truth is that you can successfully negotiate
for many aspects of your job, work-life balance, and compensation. For example, you may want to negotiate
for more vacation, help with moving expenses, or an option to work from home.

43

Other ideas include:
Professional
development
Start date
Child care
Parking
Flextime
Tuition
reimbursement
Commuting expenses
Bonuses
Stock options
Vacation days

Considering benefits that go beyond salary is an important part of negotiation, and we encourage you to seek
out information about specific recommendations and situations. We will concentrate our efforts here more
on the process of salary negotiation.
How Do I Pr e par e t o Ne got i at e ?
Negotiation, like just about every aspect of the job search process, starts with thorough preparation on your
part. Its easy to break this down into a few steps:
Define your interests and goals. What is it that you want to achieve by working at this particular
company? Is the job itself so compelling, and one in which you will learn so much, that you are
willing to take a lower salary? Do you know where youd like to go within the company?
Understand the company, its goals, and the value you can add. Hopefully youve done some of
this preparation already. Know your strategy when talking about what you can add. Understand
where the company is headed and how you can be a part of that growth. What skills do you bring?
What experiences have you had that make you uniquely qualified to tackle this position at this time?
Conduct research on the industry, position, and comparable salaries. How is this company
positioned within the industry? Is it comparably large or small? Innovative? Will working for this
company allow you to be well positioned for future moves with other organizations? Think about
how youll benefit just by being a part of this organization. Then conduct your research for salary
comparison. Salary.com, Homefair.com, and the NACE Salary Calculator can all be good options for
investigating comparable salaries. In addition, look at job listings for similar positions and talk to
your network, including a mentor, about reasonable salary expectations.
Anticipate the employers response and be prepared to respond. Know which qualifications you
want to highlight. What makes you an asset to the company? Why are you asking for this amount of
money? Keep in mind that negotiation does not mean that youre going to get everything you ask for;
you must be able to justify your request and be ready to discuss other options.
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Remember our earlier discussion about the four key points to keep in mind? This is the time to make use of
them. For instance, by separating the people from the problem, youll be able to both keep your own
emotions in check and understand that it isnt a personal affront if the hiring manager is unable to meet all of
your requests.




Appr oac hi ng Ne got i at i on
Most employers will expect some negotiation when offering a job. That does not mean, however, that they
will be able to meet all or any of your desires. It is crucial to act professionally during the negotiation
process. If you become demanding, inflexible, or rude, employers are going to feel attacked, and may start
questioning their offer to you. Not only will they question if youre a good fit for their organization, they will
likely also wonder if it is indeed the case that you want to work with them. Job Offer! A How-To Negotiation
Guide, by Maryanne L. Wegerbauer (1999) stresses that clear communication is the most important part of
negotiation. She also provides a great overview of active listening as an effective tool in the process.
In general, you want to be direct, clear, positive, and flexible. Avoid absolute statements, and instead leave
some room to hear the employers perspective. For example, rather than saying, There is no way Id work on
a Saturday without getting comp time the following week, you might try, Im curious to know how comp
time is scheduled. If, say, I worked one Saturday, would it be acceptable to take comp time the following
week? Taking this approach gives you the chance to discuss your expectations while still acknowledging that
the employer likely has an established way of handling such a situation.

When entering a negotiation, consider:
What do you need and want?
What do you deserve, and how can you show that?
What can you add?
Whats your bottom line?
What are some alternatives?
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A Common Sc e nar i o: As ki ng f or Mor e Ti me
In many cases, you may be unable to make a decision about whether or not to take a job right away. Perhaps
you have another company with whom youre still talking, or maybe you are deciding between a few different
directions to take next. Thus, your first negotiation may well be about a timeline for accepting or declining a
job. If this is the case, its important to be clear about what you need, while always remaining gracious.
Thank you so much for the offer; may I take the weekend to consider it, and call you by 5:00 p.m. on
Monday? is a professional way of saying that you want to mull it over, and will likely be well received.
If, for example, youre waiting for another offer, you may want to consider talking with the other company
first to find out its timeline. Try saying something like, Ive received another offer but continue to be very
interested in your firm. Do you know when you anticipate making a decision? If the other company is
interested, it may react more quickly, knowing that you already have another offer on the table. Either way,
you should be able to return to the company who has already offered you a position with definite timeline.
One note: if you are participating in the on-campus interviewing (OCI) process before graduation (its only
open to enrolled students), organizations have already agreed to abide by certain timelines when extending an
offer through that process.
Tal ki ng Sal ar y
A common rule of thumb is never to be the first to bring up a number in salary negotiations. Of course, this
may well be easier said than done. This is yet another reason why you should do your research ahead of time;
you dont want to say you were expecting to make an amount that is either too high or too low for the
industry. A few possibilities, when asked for a requested salary:
Turn the question back to the employer. What do people in similar positions here, with similar
responsibilities, generally earn?
Offer a range. I would expect that the salary for this type of position would fall between the high
30s and low 40s.
Allow some wiggle room. Considering the exact job requirements, and other benefits, Id be open
to considering a salary somewhere in the mid-30s.
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Implementing these techniques is a great step to ensure positive negotiation. Using the resources listed in this
section, as well as having conversations with mentors and people you trust, will give you the tools you need to
successfully move forward with your job offer. As with interviewing, it is also helpful to practice asking for
what you want. Just as weve recommended in other aspects of preparation, practice these conversations with
a friend before entering the negotiation to become comfortable with the language you want to use.

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ON THE JOB
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DRESSING FOR SUCCESS
With the real world looming in front of you, it is important to think about building your professional
wardrobe prior to your start date so that you are all set, confident, and ready to go. Do some research prior to
shopping for your new professional wardrobe. You may want to ask friends in the same industry, your
recruiter, or another professional whom you trust. Hopefully during the interview process you were able to
see the office at some point and picked up on what people were wearing. The dress code should also be
addressed at your orientation, especially in regards to exceptions such as casual Fridays.
It is always a good idea to start off slightly more conservative. Appearance and presentation count in the
workplace and begin right away to form your personal brand. It can also help to prepare your wardrobe in
advance to avoid nerves the first week. During such an important time, it will feel empowering to be well
prepared; the last thing you want to be worried about is whether or not your dry cleaning is done.
Bus i ne s s For mal Envi r onme nt
Men
Business dress in most cases means suit and a tie. One recommendation for men is to wear dark gray or blue
suits instead of black (Wise, 2009). Make sure that your socks match the color of your pants and that your
shoes match the color of your belt. Buy an iron or do research to find an inexpensive dry cleaner in the area
to ensure your shirts are pressed and ready to go.
Women
Business formal dress for women also suggests that women should wear skirt or pant suits in neutral colors
such as brown, blue, or gray for women (Wise, 2009). There is a bit more flexibility for women when it comes
to shirts and blazers; you can pair a nicely tailored neutral colored blazer with a black skirt or suit pants. A
closed-toe heel that is no more than two inches in height or a nice pair of flats in a matching, conservative
color is most appropriate for women in this environment. Finally, it is worth investing in some good hosiery,
because you will be expected to wear it regularly in a business formal workplace.

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Bus i ne s s Cas ual Envi r onme nt
Men
Nice slacks and sweaters or button-down shirts are acceptable, as well as polo shirts in some environments.
You will want to purchase shoes in both brown and black. Sneakers are not acceptable in a business casual
environment.
Women
Women have a bit more freedom in a business casual environment. You can pair nice dress pants with
blazers, sweaters, or button-down shirts. Skirts or dresses with sweaters or blazers can also be a nice way to
add variety to your wardrobe. You will want to have a skirt that is not too short. The recommended length
of a skirt is at least at the knee or just above. The shoe rules for a business causal environment can vary
widely among different offices. Err on the side of formality until you are comfortable with the office
expectations.
Cas ual Envi r onme nt
Men and Women
There are fewer industries where casual dress is acceptable and most are in the creative fields. An important
part of casual dress to remember is that even if you are allowed to wear jeans, you will want to make sure you
look well groomed.
Regardless of what industry you work in and whether you are expected to be in business, business casual or
casual dress, it is critically important to be aware of your presentation. Long gone are the days of running
back to your dorm to freshen up after class before a meeting on campus. Once youre in the professional
world, you will likely leave your apartment or house and not return for nine hours. Plan for your whole day
well dont forget about packing a healthy lunch! Be sure if you use cologne to wear a reasonable amount
and get your hair cut regularly and stay well-groomed. You want your impression at work to be positive, and
for it to be about the work you are doing and not about what you are wearing.
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YOUR FIRST 90 DAYS
Many of the relationships you built while at Georgetown will remain important long after you leave the
Hilltop. The connections you make while at your new job are also important to cultivate, especially when you
join a new organization. 40 or more hours per week equals lot of your time spent with the people at work.
There are things you can do to get these relationships off on the right foot.
Communi c at i on
As a Georgetown graduate, you probably feel you have a good idea of what professional communication is.
Perhaps you know that using slang or swearing is inappropriate regardless of the type of job you have.
However, its important that you also pay attention to the little habits which may have been acceptable as an
intern, but now will make you appear too casual on the job. For example, whether speaking in person, over
the phone, or through an e-mail, it is important for you to maintain a basic level of formality in your speech.
One employer shared that he has learned to loathe the word hey because so many recent graduates start
every e-mail or phone conversation with it. It may seem like a little thing, but such informalities can be easily
seen as immature or even disrespectful. Generally, it is a good idea to err on the side of more rather than less
formal language. It is often appropriate to use Mr. or Ms. when addressing some colleagues, supervisors, and
customers until instructed otherwise.
Being professional also means that the abbreviated language you use in a text with your friends is not
appropriate for an e-mail at work. Dont let non-words such as thanx, grt and btw sneak into your e-mails. It is
also a good idea when e-mailing to avoid using exclamation points excessively or typing in all caps as a way to
make a point. Make sure the tone, spelling and grammar are appropriate in your e-mails. Remember, theres
no deleting a sent message. Here are some other tips on e-mail etiquette offered by Bridget Graham and
Monique Reidy (2009) in their book Working World 101.
If an e-mail makes you angry, wait at least twenty-four hours before sending a reply. The cooling-off
period is necessary to diffuse your own emotions, making you better able to communicate your
thoughts.
When replying, truly determine if it is necessary to reply to all.
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Double-check the To field.
Be sure to mix face-to-face contact and phone conversations with e-mail correspondence. E-mail
shouldnt be used exclusively to develop relationships.
Messages shouldnt be forwarded without permission.
The permanency of e-mails cannot be emphasized enough. Although you may e-mail someone in confidence,
the contents of e-mails at work are never truly private. As a rule, dont say anything in an e-mail you would
not want to share at a board meeting. Carelessness can result in embarrassing e-mail accidents.
Everyone who starts a new job can expect to be under some scrutiny, especially in the first 90 days. Make
sure your use of technology on the job is appropriate. Remember that your office computer is not your
personal computer. Generally speaking, you need to save your personal computer activity for your personal
computer. Keeping these tips in mind can help you avoid having to defend something you said or how you
spend your time on the job.
Another note about your use of technology: you may be used to listening to a lecture in class, taking notes on
your laptop and simultaneously responding to texts on your iPhone while at Georgetown. However, doing so
at work is not a good idea. Remember to turn your cell phone off or on vibrate before you walk in the door
in the morning. Dont think that because you are texting under a desk no one knows what you are doing. You
will undoubtedly run into peers on the job who dont follow these rules. These are not colleagues you want to
emulate. Try not to fall into the same unprofessional behavior.
Choosing to be formal in your language will help you demonstrate your professionalism, and will earn you the
respect of your colleagues. A few simple precautions on your part can help you make a great impression
during your first few months on the job.
Of f i c e Pol i t i c s
Office politics exist in every work setting. It is only natural when there is a hierarchy and people are working
together. Listen when you first arrive in order to understand the office dynamics. Rather than trying to
implement change right away, you should initially try to be a sponge. Companies hire people who they believe
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will add value, so they want to hear your opinion. At the same time, be cautious at first because the more you
understand the business and build knowledge based on office history the more impact you will be able to
have when offering opinions. You will begin to be aware over time of the energy in your office. It is
important to remember that you are always building your personal brand and that generally speaking people
want happy, positive people on their side.
A way to frame your thinking about this is to imagine an interview down the road when you are asked how
your boss and the people you work with would describe you what would they answer?
There is absolutely no exception to the fact that bashing or gossiping about coworkers is something to avoid
at all costs. It might be easy when you first arrive to engage in conversation that turns this way and it is
advisable to politely walk away and not participate. This often comes up in the form of meetings after
meetings when you leave a group and then a sub-section gets together to share opinions not shared at the
larger meeting. These types of conversations lead to exclusion, which is unhealthy to the office environment.
When in doubt, if you are ever having difficulty with destructive conversations, be sure to utilize the help of
mentors or Human Resources if you feel like there is an issue that needs to be addressed.
It is good to be aware that all companies have nuances. Learning how to navigate your organization,
observing carefully and being cautious in offering opinions will help ensure that you are building your
personal brand in a positive way.
Your Cowor ke r s
Everyone feels nervous during the first days on the job. Remember, your coworkers were new once too. Your
colleagues can be a great resource in helping you understand the office culture and your role in the
organization. One of the easiest ways to make a great first impression is to be friendly to everyone. Introduce
yourself to people and ask them about what they do and how long they have been at the organization. Be
open, volunteer for committees, and show you are a team player. However, try to maintain a professional
balance and be alert if you run into individuals who want to immediately pull you into office gossip. The
earlier you enter into friendly and open interactions with your coworkers, the sooner you will feel connected.
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A rule that applies in many facets of your first 90 days on the job is to listen more than you speak. Everyone
has opinions. It is all right to listen to what others think without immediately weighing in on the topic. There
is a difference between being perceived as offering a fresh perspective and being seen as overly ambitious or
even obnoxious. If you spend more time listening and trying to soak in your new environment than you do
making your opinion known, there is a good chance your ideas will be welcomed with open arms.
Tread slowly when sharing personal information. Its not necessary to immediately rush out and friend
everyone you meet on Facebook. Let them approach you or let the personal connections develop organically.
This also means you should be a bit cautious not to share too much when socializing with coworkers outside
the office. You would not want to have an evening out lead to awkward moments at work!
Your coworkers can offer great insights on the expectations and culture of your office. From when, where,
and for how long to take lunch, to gaining clarity on office polices on dress code, your colleagues are
invaluable in helping you navigate your new environment. Dont be afraid to ask questions. However, for the
final word on expectations, always defer to your supervisor.
Your Supe r vi s or
The connection you establish with your boss can really help set you up for success in your new role. Ideally,
your supervisor should be your leader, your teacher, and your advocate. He or she will both help you find
your way through the landscape of the organization and instruct you on your goals, expectations, and
priorities. Again, start off the relationship by doing a lot of listening, followed by asking thoughtful questions
about goals and expectations. Strong communication with your boss is key to your success; breakdowns in
communication can cause a lot of frustration.
As you already know from working on team projects for your classes or as part of student groups, people can
have very different communication styles. In many cases, bosses will let you know their expectations
regarding how frequently you should check in with them and their preferred method of communication.
However, you should not hesitate to ask if you have questions about what is expected of you. Would they like
you to update them daily or weekly in the first few months on the job? Do they prefer to meet regularly in
54

person or do e-mail updates suffice? Err on the side of more communication when you begin the job and ask
for feedback from your supervisor as time goes on. Similar to your professors, your supervisors will evaluate
your performance and offer constructive feedback. It may not always be easy to hear, but their input will help
you know how your work is being perceived. Try to listen to the feedback without personalizing it. Ask for
specifics of what you could do differently to meet expectations. Then check in periodically to gauge how
things are progressing.
Unfortunately, not every supervisory relationship is a positive one. In some cases, the connection between
you and your boss can be challenging or uncomfortable. This can occur for a number of reasons. Usually it
has nothing to do with you personally, but rather is simply a communication breakdown or a difference in
communication style. Before considering the relationship to be a lost cause, speak with your boss to clarify
what he or she needs from you. Ask for examples of how you can do things differently to better meet
expectations. It is just as important to tell your boss the level of direction you need in order to do your job
better. Sometimes this kind of clarification can make a big difference in your professional relationship. It can
also be helpful to identify another supervisor within the office as a mentor in order to gain a different
perspective on how things are done in your office. If, however, you find yourself in an intimidating or
bullying relationship with your boss, seek advice from Human Resources professionals within your
organization. They can be instrumental in helping you change a negative work environment into a positive
one.
Your Fi r s t As s i gnme nt
Your initial project at a new job may be your first chance to prove to your colleagues that they made the right
decision when they hired you. Dont waste it.
Understand What is Expected. It sounds obvious, but there are times when your boss might take
for granted that you know more than you do, especially when you are new to your role. If you are not
absolutely clear what your boss expects of you on your first assignment, ask. Ask as many questions
as you need to. As a new member of the team, it is better to ask questions than to sit on your
concerns and make your best guess. This might lead to you finishing your project poorly or, worse
yet, not at all.
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Listen and Observe. If you are working on a team with more experienced colleagues, make sure
that you listen and observe to learn as much as you can about the process and about your teams
dynamics. Of course you should contribute to conversations and planning as much as you can, but
dont feel pressure to take the lead in meetings or try to prove you know more than you do. You are
there to contribute, but as a new team member, you are also there to learn. Listening is also a sign
that you respect your coworkers who may have been at this longer than you have. Seek first to
understand your office thoroughly before attempting to change it.
Meet Deadlines. Get your work done on time. Do whatever it takes. If you are not able to meet a
deadline, let your supervisor know as soon as possible. Dont wait until the night before an
assignment is due. When you tell your boss that you will not be able to meet the deadline, dont just
lay out the problem. Offer a solution. Present a plan for getting it done as soon as possible. Failing to
meet a deadline is certainly not ideal. But if you handle the situation properly, by being honest and
taking responsibility, you may be able to limit the damage.
How t o Fi nd a Me nt or
There are times when we can all benefit from the wisdom of others. This is true no matter what profession
you choose to pursue. A mentor can be a teacher, an advisor, a friend, and someone to help give you
guidance as you navigate your career. Throughout your life, you should work to build relationships with
people you can trust, people who will be honest with you, people you respect who are willing to share the
benefit of their experiences with you. Sometimes, your employer will assign you a mentor. Some mentorship
relationships will develop naturally. Sometimes you will have to seek them out. No matter how you find them,
mentors are important to all of us.
Use your Network. Mentors can come from anywhere. Think of the friends and family you have
who have worked in fields similar to yours. Friends and family are natural mentors, because they
have a personal interest in your success and well-being. But dont stop there. Your network may be
larger than you think. As a member of the Georgetown University community, you have access to
the Georgetown University Alumni Associations Alumni Career Network
(http://alumni.georgetown.edu/CareerServices), a searchable database of thousands of Georgetown
alumni who you are able to contact to ask for career information. This is a tremendous resource that
you should take advantage of. And whatever your field, there are bound to be professional
organizations you can join to meet other professionals in your line of work.
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Be Deliberate About the Mentor-Mentee Relationship. When you find a mentor, dont wait
passively for opportunities to talk. Schedule time to meet with one another. Set lunch dates, meet for
coffee, talk on the phone. Set specific goals. What would you like to speak to your mentor about?
What decisions are you wrestling with that your mentor might be able to help you with? Share your
goals so that he or she understands where you are coming from and where you are headed. Finally,
establish expectations. How often do you plan to meet? Will you meet in person or speak on the
phone?
Have Mentors at Different Levels. Mentors can take many different forms. You can learn from
peers just as you can learn from your bosss boss. And sometimes it will make more sense to ask the
advice of a peer than it will to ask the advice of a more experienced mentor. That is not a problem,
but be sure that you keep mentorship relationships with peers professional. Make sure that you can
trust your peer. And resist the urge to gossip. Office gossip can come back to haunt you. You should
have people you can go to for advice and people who would be willing to go to bat for you at many
different levels. In fact, as Priscilla Claman writes on the Harvard Business Review blog, you should
have not one mentor, but a group of people you speak to regularly to get feedback and advice, almost
like a personal board of directors.
(http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2010/10/forget_mentors_employ_a_person.html)
Nurture the Relationship. The mentor-mentee relationship, like any good relationship, works in
both directions. Dont just take. Give as well. Even if your mentors has many more years of
experience than you, and you feel you dont have advice to give, maintain a strong relationship with
your mentors by asking how they are doing, listening to their concerns, and helping in any way you
can. At the very least, you should always express your gratitude for your mentors time and counsel
by writing a thank-you note (handwritten thank-you notes are best, but an e-mail will suffice).
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PERSONAL GOAL SETTING
Begin with the end in mind. Stephen Covey
There is a reason that the above idea is one of the habits in Stephen Coveys Seven Habits of Highly Effective
People (2004). The more you know about where you want to end up, the better your chances of getting there.
This is true whether you are setting goals for your next project, for the next year, or for your career. Think
about your next performance evaluation, for instance. How would you like that meeting to go? What
accomplishments would you like to have achieved to demonstrate that you performed well during the year?
Be specific. Jot down three to five goals that would are interested in achieving during your first year on the
job. Now, what do you have to do between now and then to turn your vision of your best possible
performance evaluation into a reality? Here are some tips on setting effective goals.
Make Goals Clear and Measurable. Your goals should be specific enough to drive action. Think
of President Kennedy launching the U.S. mission to the moon. He didnt say that he wanted to get to
work on exploring the possibility of space travel in the hopes of one day sending a man to the moon.
In 1961, Kennedy issued a call to, put a man on the moon and return him safely by the end of the
decade. Thats specific. Theres a timeline. There was no question how the missions success would
be determined. Thats a goal you can act on (Heath, C. & Heath, D., 2007).
Revisit the Goals Frequently. After you take the time to set clear, measurable goals, dont put them
in a file and forget about them. Use them as a guide when you plan your days and weeks and create
task lists. Use your list of goals to help you stay focused on whats most important to you.
Revise if Necessary. Dont be afraid to change your goals. You will inevitably adjust goals when
faced with reality. Circumstances change. Life interrupts. That project that you planned to finish by
the end of the summer might have to be delayed to make time for something more urgent and more
important. Reevaluate and adjust your goals when necessary. Dont let yourself be overrun by your
most urgent responsibilities and abandon your goals without a new plan for achieving them.
Prioritize. Its good to be ambitious, but it is also important to recognize your limits. Understand
which of your goals are most important, and take care of them first. Otherwise, you may find your
most important goals being crowded out by the less important ones.
Dont Forget About the Process. Setting goals is a vital part of professional success. There is no
way around it, but be careful not to be so outcome-driven that you take shortcuts in the process.
Doing things the right way is how we maintain our personal integrity.
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LEAVING YOUR FIRST JOB
There are many factors that go into the decision to leave your first job and equally as many that go into how
to do it. It is easiest to add to your current role or search for another position when you have a job, instead of
when you are unemployed. Use the chart below to evaluate potential factors as you plan your transition.
Factors Internal Move External Move
Managerial issues
Internal mobility is there an
opening on another team?
Interview your new manager who
would be your manager and what is
his or her managerial style?
Not feeling
challenged
Ask for more responsibility.
Get involved in your organization
outside of your position many
firms have ways that you can be
involved whether it is networks,
volunteering, or athletics!

Dream big apply for positions that
will bring you the challenge you desire.
Ask questions during the interview
process about the responsibilities of
those in a similar role.
Company culture
Think about adjusting your own
expectations, or working to
change the culture from within by
taking small, positive steps.
Do your homework! When looking
for your next position, conduct
informational interviews with people
who work at your target companies.
Ask questions of each person you
interview with about the culture of the
firm.
Research the organization using all
online resources available.
Position is not a right
match to your skills
and interests
Internal mobility if you have a
good relationship with your
manager then you can express an
interest in moving into an area
that interests you.
Check out your organizations list
of available opportunities for a
potential role change.
Brainstorm about what you are good
at and want.
See a career counselor.
Network! Talk to people about what
they do and see if it matches what you
are looking for find a way to
integrate it into your conversations.
Search for that great opportunity and
ask lots of questions so that you are
comfortable accepting the new
position.

At the end of the day, the most critical thing to remember is that you want to leave a positive impression.
You never know when you may be asking a former colleague for a reference or find yourself in the situation
of wanting to return to your current employer.
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Depending on when you plan to leave your job, you will want to give your supervisor advance notice. The
business standard is at least two weeks. This depends on the type of work that you do, so rely on your
mentors outside the firm if you believe the protocol is different for your industry. Make sure not to let your
work slip at the end. There is a tendency to become lackadaisical given that you are planning to leave, but it
is best to keep up the quality of work and leave on a positive note. It is a very small world; the people around
you are your network and perhaps even include those whom you might call on to serve as references for your
next position.
Logistically you will want to be sure to tell your manager first and in person. Chances are that you have
worked closely with this person on many projects and that he or she relies on you to get the necessary work
done. In addition, your manager will likely give you a reference for future positions, and you want to be sure
that you leave on the best possible terms. Depending on the work style of your manager, you will want to
either request a time to meet in advance or just wait for a time when it is quiet in the office to have a
conversation. It is important that this is a closed-door conversation so be sure to reserve a conference room
or ask politely to use an office.
Be aware of the number of remaining vacation days that you have so that you are paid for these days (if that
is a benefit provided by your company), write a very short letter of resignation and provide feedback in the
exit interview if you have the opportunity to have one. The following is a sample of a general letter and what
should be included. If you are leaving on positive terms, it is appropriate to add a few more lines about the
company itself, and your experience there.





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Todays Date

Managers Name
Managers Title
Company Name
Company Address

Dear Mr./Ms. Manager:
This is my formal notification that I am resigning from (company name) as (title). (Date) will be my last day of
employment.
I appreciate the opportunities I have been given here, and wish you much success in the future.
Sincerely,

(your signature)

Your Name
cc: (names of those being copied on the letter)
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THOUGHTS ON BEING A PROFESSIONAL
By Todd A. Olson, Ph.D.
Vice President, Student Affairs, Georgetown University
1. Seek first to understand, then to be understood. This idea has resonated with wise people for a long
time, from St. Francis of Assisi to Stephen Covey. Its critical for us to keep it in mind when
interacting with everyone with whom we work, especially in times of conflict.
2. Pay attention and keep learning. This is meant in the deepest sense of these phrases keep yourself
open to new ways of looking at the people and events around you. Keep trying out new questions and
new interpretations. Complacency is the enemy of growth.
3. Follow through on your commitments as quickly and effectively as you can. Intention is important,
but action is far more important. If you find yourself unable to follow through, ask for help or for
guidance.
4. If you have concerns about a colleagues performance, address those concerns directly and promptly.
You may want to consult with your supervisor or another trusted colleague about how to proceed, but
then you should address the concerns directly with the person in question. Complaining about
someone without letting him/her know you have concerns is unfair and destructive, as is bottling up
those issues and hanging on to them. If something is on your mind, address it or let it go.
5. If you have concerns about a policy or decision, disagree in private and support your team in public.
When you dont understand the reason for a decision or policy stance, give those responsible for it the
benefit of the doubt, and ask them to explain.
6. Dress appropriately for your role and furnish your office in appropriate ways humor is a wonderful
quality, but the wrong kind of humor can be distasteful or intimidating. Your style should be
individual, but it should also be professional.
7. Dont write something in an e-mail that you would be embarrassed to have published in a major
newspaper. Your e-mail can end up in many different places and can hang around for a long period of
time. Also, be really careful with reply all make sure you know who is on the list. The same
principles apply to your online profiles on Facebook, twitter, and other social networking sites.
8. Return phone calls and e-mail messages promptly even if you dont yet have a final answer. Dont
leave people wondering whether you received their message. Vacation messages are helpful please
use them. A voice mailbox is full message is not acceptable.
9. Two of the most powerful phrases in the English language are I was wrong and Im sorry. Use
them often, and without bitterness. Take responsibility for your actions.
10. Keep your life in balance, as best you can. Working hard can be draining, and its important to take
care of yourself. If you do not, you may burn out and become ineffective. Make time to get away from
your role, and reward yourself when youve made it through a difficult week.
11. We all continue to learn throughout our lives, and we all continue to make mistakes. The key point is
to learn everything we can from those mistakes, and to make an authentic effort to grow and move
forward.

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MANAGING YOUR FINANCES
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LIVING IN THE REAL WORLD: DEBT, SAVINGS, EXPENSES
Fi nanc e s
One of the most daunting tasks for many new graduates is the challenge of figuring out how to live on a
budget, which some people may be doing for the very first time. Understanding your finances is no small
task; it takes into consideration not only your salary, taxes, and expenses, but also your lifestyle, goals, and
spending habits. It is, in truth, a very individual process. While we cannot give a detailed outline for each
graduate, this section is meant to provide you with a basic starting point for responsible fiscal management.
Inc ome and Taxe s
When considering the amount of money youll be making, it is of course important to keep in mind that your
salary is not the same as the amount of money you will take home from your job each month. Before your
paycheck even reaches you, the government has taken its share in taxes, and youve also likely opted to put
money into retirement plans and health insurance. The end result is that your take-home pay is much lower
than the amount of financial compensation you agreed to when you took your job.
Though it will vary somewhat, a Georgetown graduate who makes a salary of $40,000 a year can expect to be
taxed at a rate of about 25%. The end result is a take-home pay of about $30,000 a year, without taking into
consideration expenses such as health insurance and retirement plan costs. If, however, you work as an
independent contractor, or are otherwise considered self-employed, youll need to account for self-
employment tax, along with budgeting, to be able to pay taxes at the end of the year. In those scenarios, your
pay wont be automatically taxed but youll still be expected to pay what you owe come April 15.
If you are part of the roughly 25% of Georgetown graduates who go straight into some type of graduate
school, however, your income structure will be a bit different. Many students who go further in their studies
often find some sort of funding, such as a graduate assistantship, to finance their tuition and living expenses.
Keep in mind that funding through assistantships is still considered taxable income. Before accepting one,
youll want to answer questions for yourself about whether or not the amount youll make is enough income
to live on, or if youll need to supplement your income through part-time work or student loans. It is worth
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noting, however, that in the current economic climate, it is not as easy to find generous funding as it was at
one time.
In addition to your standard salary, of course, youll want to keep in mind that you may receive income from
other sources. Investment income, inheritances, and signing bonuses should be taken into account. However,
since they are not steady sources of income, its important to keep them somewhat separate when considering
a monthly budget. Remember that they may be taxed as well.
There are a number of programs that can be useful when considering how to plan for a budget.
Bankrate.com, for example, has a very useful section of calculator tools that allows you to figure out the
approximate amount of taxes youll pay. You can even enter in the amount youll be deducting from each
paycheck for other considerations such as your 401(k). Regardless of how you figure out your take-home pay,
doing so carefully is an important piece of your transition from Georgetown into the real world.
St ude nt Loans
Student loans are, for many Georgetown grads, a fact of life. Because it is so common to take out loans, the
reality of paying them back can come as a shock for many students. It is crucial to factor in this expense when
considering your post-graduation budget. Although well outline some common terms in this document,
please stay in close contact with your lender to understand your specific rights and responsibilities. You are
expected to understand your commitment.
After leaving school, you will generally have a grace period before your first loan payment is due. For a
Federal Stafford Loan, that grace period is six months; for a Federal Perkins Loan, youll have nine months
before that first due date. You will want to consider what type of repayment plan you choose. A standard
repayment plan allows you to pay a fixed amount each month with a relatively short (10 years) duration of the
loan. An extended repayment plan allows for a longer term to the loan, which may mean lower payments but
a greater amount overall due to interest on the loan. Choosing a graduated repayment plan means that your
payments will start out low and then increase every two years for up to 10 years. Finally, the income based
repayment option is designed to be affordable, based on family size and income.
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If at any point you have trouble making your payments, you may want to consider changing your repayment
plan, requesting a deferment, or securing a forbearance. A deferment allows you to temporarily stop making
payments on your loan if you qualify because of economic hardship, school reenrollment, or unemployment.
In many circumstances, you will not need to make interest payments if you have a deferment. A forbearance
also gives a temporary reprieve from making payments, but the difference is that interest will continue to
accrue, meaning that your loan is actually getting larger. The key for any of these options is to communicate
with your lenders; they cannot help if you dont communicate with them.
There are many other aspects of student loans that you may want to consider. For example, there are some
loan forgiveness programs designed for public service employees and teachers in high-need areas. If these are
of interest to you, be sure to fully investigate your options and commitment. You can find all the information
you need at http://studentaid.ed.gov.
Cr e di t Car ds
For many students, leaving college means taking ownership of bills for the very first time. It can be both
liberating and frustrating to take on this responsibility. Unfortunately, its easy to get into financial trouble if
you arent careful. In fact, in America about 43% of U.S. families spend more than they earn
(moneycenter.msn.com). For the vast majority of us in America who cant imagine living life without their
Visa or MasterCard, here are some things to keep in mind:
Not All Credit Cards are Created Equal. This point is important, especially if you are signing up
for your first credit card independently of your familys bank account. Some cards have exorbitant
interest rates, balance transfer rates, and hidden fees. Did you know that some credit card companies
actually charge you annually just to use their plastic? If you are just starting out on your own, be on
the lookout for cards with low interest rates, and no annual fees. Bottom line: read the fine print
carefully and know what you are getting yourself into with each card.
Think Before you Apply. Do you know the importance of a credit score? Do you know what
yours is? Your score can drastically affect your financial outlook and your ability to get loans, buy a
car or house, and get low interest rates for major expenses. You are able to request a free credit
report up to three times a yearonce annually from the three major (and reputable) firms: Equifax
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(www.equifax.com), Experian (www.experian.com), and TransUnion (www.transunion.com). Your
goal should be a score around 700 and above. There is a good chance you already knew about the
importance of the credit score, but did you also know that every credit card you apply for affects
your score? Requesting a credit card isnt something you should take lightly. Sure, there are lots of
stores that push their credit card with the attractive offer of 10% off your purchase, but you need to
seriously consider if saving a few bucks is worth a dent in your score. As you are building up your
credit, its probably best to stick to one credit card that works everywhere.
Rewards Galore! The best kind of credit card can be the one that pays YOU for using it. Look for
cards that have no annual fees and perks such as cash back rewards or airline miles. If you commit
to using these cards wiselywhich means paying them off in full every monthyou can really
benefit from these perks. However, keep in mind that there is one major caveat: if you get a rewards
card with annual fees and/or a high interest rate, the reward may not be worth it financially. Dont
forget to read all the fine print carefully! One rule of thumb is to pay off your balance every month (a
costly life emergency is a rare exception, a fancy new pair of shoes is not). If you cant afford to pay
off an expense in one month, dont buy it.
Savi ngs
It doesnt matter whether you are making an average salary or an above-average salary in your new job; you
need to be saving some money. Anyone who has lived paycheck-to-paycheck will tell you the benefit and
peace of mind that comes with a savings account. Life throws unexpected curves our way. A job loss,
medical emergencies, starting a family: these situations are just a few of the many things you can face in the
real world. Having savings stored away to help you through lifes unplanned expenses will keep you
financially healthy.

Financial guru Dave Ramsey provides a seven-step plan for getting out of debt and saving money (Ramsey,
2009). The first four steps are the most appropriate to tackle just out of college.
1) Create a $1000 emergency fund. If you dont have $1000 stored away in a high-yield savings
account, money market account, or local bank basic savings account, start saving today. Minor life
emergencies such as car trouble or a brief hospitalization can be handled with this emergency fund.
2) Pay off all debt. Before you can move forward with a large savings plan, you have to get out of any
consumer debt you are in. Pay down your credit cards; contribute more each month to your student
loan repayment than the minimum amount.
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3) Build up 3 to 6 months of savings. Multiply your monthly take-home pay by three and that should
equal your minimum savings goal. If you make $50,000, your ideal savings should be at least
$12,500which is 3 months of your total salary. This nest egg will be a lifesaver for you in the event
of any major events such a move, job loss, or other serious issues.
4) Invest 15% of pre-tax income into Roth IRAs and pre-tax retirement. For a $50,000 salary that
would equal $7,500 divided annually between your Roth IRA and your retirement fund (which you
hopefully have already opted into through your employer). You are never too young to have a
retirement account! The earlier you start one and the more consistent you are with your
contributions, the happier (and more secure!) you will be when you have the luxury of hanging up
your work clothes for good and traveling the world.


If you arent disciplined to move money into your Roth IRA and savings account each month, set up an
automatic transfer from your bank account and designate how much you would like to move over each
month. There are a few good high yield savings accounts that you can build your savings in; just do a little
research to see which one is right for you. Look for accounts that have no penalties for transferring funds
from your personal checking account and have a consistently high Annual Percentage Rate. You wont find
very high percentages in this economy, but stick with it and keep your fingers crossed that the economy and
your APR will skyrocket in the future!
Expe ns e s
Heres the simple math for a successful financial future: spend less than you make. Sounds like common sense,
right? It is simple to do as long as you are well aware of all of your expenses before you accept that job offer!
Dont forget that the salary offer you receive from a new employer doesnt account for the taxes that will be
removed before it gets to your bank account. Be sure to factor this difference into your budget before
accepting an offer. Get creative about ways to save money; many employers offer discounts on cell phone
bills, gym memberships, and massages. Do your homework to see what other perks might be available to you
at your new job. To get you started on developing a budget, well break down basic guidelines below.
Save the MAX for your retirement; you create wealth not by what you
earn but by what you save and the friends you have. Get enough life and
disability insurance because you never know. WLL, C68, M72
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Rent/Mortgage
Renting vs. buying a place to live is covered in another section, so lets just get to the financial piece of your
cost of living. The general rule you should stick with is to never spend more than one third of your
household income on your rent or mortgage. You might have to settle for a smaller than desired apartment
with your fresh-out-of-college salary. Sure, living on 5
th
Avenue would be great, but embrace the stage of life
you are in nowfind the joy in being independent and making your own path in life before you start wishing
for more.
Max percentage of income you should spend on housing: 31.8%
Utilities
Utility bills, such as water, electric, and gas, are a necessary evil for every independent person. However,
there are ways to keep your bills as low as possible each month. Turning off every light, taking short
showers, unplugging appliances when they arent in usethese arent just ways to save the environment, they
are also great ways to save your pocketbook. Take advantage of days with sunshine and beautiful weather to
turn off your lights and your air conditioner. Its a good idea to call the utility companies in your area to get
an estimate of average costs and see if you can take advantage of any savings that may be available.
Max percentage of income you should spend on utilities: 8.5%
Food
Eating healthy and eating on a budget are two very important things for a new college grad. New career
stress and adjusting to life as a worker can seriously affect your diet. One simple solution takes care of both
your health and your budget: dine in. Restaurants are expensive and often loaded with unhealthy ingredients.
Its fine to splurge on going out to eat once in a while, but making it a regular habit because it is the most
convenient option for your schedule can be dangerous. Set a limit for yourself while you are still learning to
manage your new budget and stick with it! Eating out no more than once a week for your first year out of
college might be a good plan for you.

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When grocery shopping, keep two principles in mind: shop the perimeter of the store and buy whats on sale.
The perimeter of a standard grocery store will contain the fresh, healthy items you will want to cook, such as
veggies, fruit, fresh seafood, and calcium-rich dairy. Eating well will keep you physically and emotionally
healthy. Because stores are constantly rotating which food they discount each week, it is easy to come up with
creative meal options while sticking to your budget. Plan your weeks menu around the sales at the store:
chicken parmesan when you find a discount on chicken breast, and grilled salmon and rice when the seafood
goes down a couple of dollars. Finally, never go to the grocery store on an empty stomach! You are far more
likely to overspend on items you are craving at the time. You may not think $.50 here and $1.00 there will
make much difference in your bank account, but you are developing the habit of being financially conscious
in every aspect of your life, and it will make a difference in the long run.
Max percentage of income you should spend on food and drink: 15.6%
Transportation
Getting to work, especially in a large city, can be a challenge for both cost and time. Whether you drive, ride
public transportation, or carpool, factor in the cost of each method to determine what is right for you.
Max percentage of income you should spend on transportation 17.6%
Insurance
Insurance is an important protective measure that you should not skimp on financially. Car and renters
insurance protect your property in the event of an accident. Shop around for good rates and great coverage
and never go without insurance. Renters insurance will only set you back about $15 to $20 a month but can
cover about $20,000 worth of your belongings in the event of a disaster or theft. Check with your new
employer about health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Talk with your HR Benefits Advisor to determine
the best plan for your specific needs.

Entertainment
College entertainment tends to be cheaper than post-college entertainment because in college, it is easy to just
walk over to your friends dorm room to enjoy a great Friday night for free. Once you move away, its not
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quite that simple. Set a budget for yourself and stick with it (are you seeing a theme here?). Dining out, going
to movies, and attending the hottest clubs make for an eventful, yet expensive, lifestyle. Depending on where
you live, there is likely to be an abundance of options for free and cheap entertainment. Search for your citys
City Guide or Going Out Guide for suggestionsyoull be amazed at the new experiences the local events
calendar will bring your way. Dont forget to also take advantage of the discount coupon sites that give you a
daily deal, often discounting items and services significantly. Sites such as Groupon and Living Social have
fantastic deals in many cities for meals, entertainment, personal services, and even oil change discounts.
Check these sites out for location availability.
Max percentage of income you should spend on entertainment 5.6%
Other Expenses
As you are putting together your budget, dont forget to include the expenses you will run into on an
occasional basis. Traveling, entertaining, birthday and wedding gifts all start to add up over time and can hit
your budget hard if you dont plan for this discretionary spending.
Max percentage of income you should spend on other expenses 17.6%
Gym Membership and Other Luxuries (like a daily Starbucks run)
You may have noticed there wasnt any information about cable and Internet under the utilities section of this
chapter. That omission was intentional because a financially savvy person doesnt consider cable and Internet
utilities, but rather considers them luxuries. Many people today pay for cable television and high speed
Internet and assume they could not go a day without either amenity. There is an abundance of free WiFi hot
spots today, so if you can save your Internet browsing for public places you can save hundreds of dollars a
year. Cable or satellite television can run you $90 a month in many places. If you just cant bear to part with
one or both of these luxuries, you can still be financially smart about the way you enjoy them. Simply
purchase a basic Internet package for around $20 a month and watch your favorite cable shows on Hulu or
station Web sites. At the end of the year, you can have an extra $840!
Max percentage of income you should spend on luxury expenses 3.3%
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HEALTH INSURANCE
Did you know that . . .
Young adults have the highest rate of uninsured of any age group?
Young adults have the lowest rate of access to employer-based insurance of any age group?
Nearly ! of uninsured young adults report problems paying their medical bills?
(http://www.hhs.gov/oclio/regulations/adult_child_fact_sheet.html)
These statistics make sense when you think about them. Young adults often take entry level and part-time
jobs and/or positions with small companies. These are often the types of jobs that dont offer health
insurance. Issues relating to health care and health care reform have dominated news headlines repeatedly,
and these subjects are complicated, to be sure.
We hope here to simplify some of the main areas that might apply to you. Our explanations serve as your
starting point, and should not take the place of your own research. After all, few things are more important
than your health. The most important thing you should know about health insurance is that you need it! Theres no telling
when you could be injured or diagnosed with a serious illness. Even if youre currently healthy and in great
shape, remember that you wont be given advance notice of an accident!
Empl oye r- Spons or e d He al t hc ar e Pl ans
If youre employed by a medium or large company you probably have the option of participating in an
employer-sponsored (or group) health insurance plan. Insurance through a group plan is almost always more
affordable than privately purchased plans, so you should definitely take advantage of this job perk! If youre
married and your spouses employer also has a health plan, compare the plans to see which is the better deal
for your family.
Some of these terms might be familiar, but just in case youre not sure what they mean in an insurance
context, here are a few basic definitions:
Premium Your monthly (or regular) payment for coverage.
Deductible The amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance takes over.
Co-Payment A fee (usually $10 - $25) you pay when you visit your doctor.
Pre-Existing Condition A medical condition, injury or illness that you have or have had before you
join an insurance plan.
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There are different kinds of insurance programs out there, but the two most common are the HMO and the
PPO. The HMO, or Health Maintenance Organization, generally has lower premiums but less flexibility. As
a member of an HMO, you can only see doctors who are employees of or under contract with the HMO. If
your favorite doctor is out of network and you decide to see him or her, you will pay most, if not all, of the
bill. In addition, youll need a referral from your primary care practitioner (known as a gatekeeper) in order to
see a specialist.
A PPO, or Preferred Provider Organization, generally has higher premiums but offers more flexibility. As a
member of a PPO, you can see any doctor within the PPO network and may not need referrals to see
specialists. The PPO doctors are not employees of the PPO. You also have the option of going out of the
PPO network. Although you wont receive the same amount of reimbursement as you would for seeing an
in-network doctor, chances are you could still receive something and not be completely responsible for the
bill. PPOs are generally considered the higher level of insurance because of their flexibility and easy access to
specialists.
Of course, employers offer many different types of plans, some falling between the HMO and PPO. For
example, some employers offer a POS (Point of Service) plan, which is part HMO and part PPO. If your
employer offers alternative plans, please do your research. Generally speaking, once you pick a plan youre
committed to it for the policy period (usually a year) before you can switch. Make sure to do your homework
and choose wisely!
Cobr a
If you were laid off, fired, or just plain quit a job that provided health insurance, you are entitled to keep it
under COBRA. COBRA (the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985) applies to
companies with 20 or more employees and allows you to extend your coverage for up to 18 months after
leaving your job. The downside is that your former employer will no longer pay your portion of the premium
(which can be expensive). The upside is that at least youll have insurance! Make sure you speak to your
employer about COBRA coverage before you leave your job.
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Hopefully, you wont be out of work for 18 months, but its nice to know that COBRA is there for you if you
need it. Remember, 18 months can go by pretty quickly, so make sure that you have other health care
insurance lined up before your COBRA coverage expires.
The Pat i e nt Pr ot e c t i on and Af f or dabl e Car e Ac t
What if youre still searching for a job or you work for a job that doesnt offer health insurance? No worries;
you have options. On March 23, 2010 President Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and
Affordable Care Act (which well call Obama Care). The legislation is massive and far-reaching, but whats
critical for you to know is that under Obama Care you are eligible to remain on your parents health insurance
plan until your 26
th
birthday. Of course, your parents plan must offer dependent coverage in the first place.
Under Obama Care, you do not need to live with your parents or be designated as a dependent on their tax
returns. You also dont have to be a student to be eligible for coverage. Currently, you are not eligible for
this coverage if you have access to health insurance through your employers health plan. Beginning in 2014,
however, the law will allow people under the age of 26 to stay on their parents plan even if they are offered
employer-sponsored health care coverage.
Youre eligible to stay on your parents plan until your 26
th
birthday even if youre married. Your spouse will
not be covered under your parents plan. Similarly, if you have a child, he or she will not be covered.
There are regulations regarding when you are eligible to enroll for coverage. You should, for example, receive
notice of a 30 day enrollment period. Please check your parents plan to learn the applicable deadlines and
make sure you sign up on time! To learn more about young adult coverage under Obama Care, check out
www.healthinsurance.com or www.hhs.gov.
Pr i vat e l y Pur c has e d He al t h Ins ur anc e
You may also purchase health insurance privately. This may not be appealing to you for a number of reasons.
First, the costs are intimidating. Second, you might not know how to navigate the health insurance maze
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(join the club!). Third, you might feel that your money is better spent getting your career off the ground while
youre still healthy. All of these reasons are understandable, but we repeat: you need insurance!
You can start by doing research online at www.healthinsurance.com. You should also consider checking with
an insurance professional in your state. When reviewing plans, make sure to learn the following:
The available plans in your state;
What various plans will and will not pay for;
Your premium and deductible;
How (or if) you will be reimbursed for doctor visits, prescriptions and services.
When choosing a plan you should also consider your health, age, any pre-existing conditions, how often you
go to the doctor, how important flexibility in choosing your own physicians is to you, and the health needs of
any dependents you might have.
If money is tight and youre on your own, you might want to consider a low-cost, high-deductible
catastrophic plan. While youll still be out of pocket for that broken arm, a catastrophic plan should kick in
to cover you for those unanticipated, big ticket injuries and illnesses (Thakor & Kedar, 2007).

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RETIREMENT PLANS
Youre recently out of college and new to the working world (you might not even be in the working world
yet, for that matter!). You also might be broke and saddled with student loans. The last thing you probably
have on your mind is saving for retirement when you can barely make ends meet. Youre probably thinking
that you need to get a career before you can think about retiring from one. We get it; weve been there. But
the simple fact is that earlier is better when it comes to saving for retirement.
Consider the following example of Tabitha and Tonya:
Tabitha: After graduation from college Tabitha took a job with a salary of $35,000 per year and began saving
immediately at the rate of $5,000 per year. She kept this up for 10 years until she quit her job at age 32 to
become a full-time mother. She didnt contribute another dollar to her savings.
Tonya: After graduation Tonya took a job with an ad agency making $25,000. She didnt save early on. At
age 40 she began earning a salary of $75,000 per year and also began saving $10,000 per year. Tonya did this
for 10 years, saving a total of $100,000 out of pocket. After 10 years, Tonya stopped working to care for her
parents.
Assuming the same investments at 10% growth per year:
At age 65: Tabithas nest egg: $1,850,000
Tonyas nest egg: $ 665,000
Moral of the Story: Saving early gives your money more time to grow
There are two common ways to make money. The first is to go to work and earn it. The second is to invest
your money and let your investments do the work for you (Thakor, 2007). If you get in the habit now of
setting aside a portion of your earnings, you wont even miss that money and youll be really happy later.
Were going to talk about the basic types of retirement plans. Please dont let these explanations and
suggestions substitute for your own research. Remember, its your money and your future.
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Empl oye r Spons or e d Pl ans
If youre lucky enough to work for a company that offers an employer sponsored retirement plan, take
advantage of it! Youve probably heard them described as 401(k) plans, but they go under other names as
well, like a 403(b) or a 457 plan (Thakor, 2007). Typically, these plans are tax-deferred, which means that you
contribute pre-tax dollars from your salary directly to the plan from your paycheck. Although the income is
not taxed while its in the plan, when you take this money out at retirement you will pay taxes on it. Uncle
Sam always gets his cut!
Your employer may offer several plans from which to choose. After youve done your research and picked
your plan, you basically decide what portion of your income you want to contribute and to which plan. That
portion is deducted from your paycheck. You never even see the money, so theres little chance youll miss
spending it. Some employers even offer to match your contribution with one of their own. Few things are
free in life, but this is one of them. Dont miss out on this gift! Do your best to maximize your employers
free match.
IRAs
If you dont have access to an employer sponsored plan, dont worry; you can still save for your retirement.
You can open an IRA, or Individual Retirement Account, at the financial institution of your choice. IRAs
come in three basic types: the Roth, the traditional and the rollover (Thakor, 2007).
Roth IRA: The Roth IRA is a tax-exempt retirement account. That means that you contribute post-
tax dollars to your savings plan. Since Uncle Sam has already taken his cut you will not be taxed
again later when you withdraw your money. In addition, you can withdraw your contributions at any
time without penalties if you need emergency money for a rainy day (Thakor, 2007). The Roth IRA
has typically had an adjusted gross income cap. That means that if you earn more than a certain
amount you are not eligible for a Roth IRA. In 2009, individuals earning more than $120,000 (and
married couples filing jointly earning more than $176,000) per year were not eligible
(www.vanguard.com/us/whatweoffer/ira). For those that are eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA,
you can put up to $5000 per year in this retirement account.
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Traditional IRA: The traditional IRA is a tax-deferred account (like the typical 401(k) plan),
meaning that you pay taxes on your contributions (and interest) when you remove the money at
retirement. Penalties apply for early withdrawal of your contributions. Like the Roth IRA, theres a
cap on the amount youre allowed to contribute annually (Thakor, 2007). Unlike the Roth IRA, there
is no income cap for eligibility.
Rollover IRA: Unlike its name implies, this IRA is not really a separate animal from the previous
two IRAs. Rather, it rolls over, or becomes, an IRA. Suppose you leave your job with its 401(k) plan.
You have four options:
1. Cash out your 401(k) plan and pay the penalties.
2. Leave the plan with your former employer.
3. Roll over your plan to your new employer sponsored plan.
4. Roll over your 401(k) plan into a traditional IRA (Thakor, 2007).
Option one is the least preferred because you will pay penalties and not have a retirement savings
plan in place. The second leaves you with less control over your investments. If you move to a new
job with a new plan, you might want to choose the third option. Speak to a financial expert about it.
Otherwise, you can take your 401(k) and roll it into and IRA. This gives you control over your
investments and future security. You know where your money is and how it is being invested.
Again, this is very technical information. Our simplified version does not cover some of the specific details,
but hopefully it can get you started on the right path. Consider consulting your Human Resources
professional at your current job. There are tax consequences, not to mention strategic considerations, to your
choices. Do your research and/or consult an expert to help you make the most out of your nest egg. Believe
us, youll be glad that you did!

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RELOCATING
79

FINDING YOUR NEW HOME
Youve probably started to think about where youre going to live once you leave the Hilltop. While many of
you are planning to rent, some of you may want to consider buying. Below is a brief chart comparing some
basic benefits and costs related to renting vs. buying.
Renting Buying
Less commitment; leases are typically one year, 6
months, or month-to-month
More commitment; youll typically want to stay
in your home for two or more years
Fewer costs up front; typically youll need to pay
first months rent, last months rent, and security
deposit (varies based on locality)
More costs up front; typically youll need a down
payment for your home, fees related to various
inspections, and closing costs
Landlord or leasing office is typically responsible
for fixing items, appliances, etc.
You as the owner will be responsible for all
aspects of your home
Despite paying a significant amount each month,
you are not making a permanent investment
Long-term investment; every month you pay
down a portion of your mortgage and gain equity
Limited access to paint, update, or change
appliances or features to your rental property
Freedom to paint, update, or change anything
you wish in your home; there may be some
limitations if you have a Condo Association or
Homeowners Association where youll need to
get a permit first

These are just a few factors to consider as you think about what makes the most sense for you. If you feel
ready to buy a home, youll want to start speaking with a realtor to gain more extensive knowledge on the
entire buying process. Ask your family and friends for realtor referrals; its important that you work with
someone you trust. Since many of you plan to rent, well spend the rest of this section discussing how to find
your apartment and aspects related to renting.
Fi ndi ng an Apar t me nt
Now that youve started to develop your budget, lets talk about where youre going to live. Finding and
renting your new home can be exciting and stressful. Well cover some important factors to make this an
easier process for you. First, youll need to answer several simple questions:
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1. Location: Which city or town do you want to live in? Do you already live in the area or are you
relocating?
2. Rent: How much can you afford? A general guideline is to refrain from spending more than 1/3 of
your income on rent.
3. Length of Lease: Do you want a short-term or long-term lease?
4. Must-Haves: Do you need a pet friendly apartment? A walk-in closet? A doorman? Walking
distance to work? Think about what you are not willing to live without.
Loc at i on
If youre looking to move to a new area or even a new country, make sure you talk with locals to understand
the rental market and the different neighborhoods. There can be great variation in costs from one part of
town to another and its important that you start to get a feel for the culture and environment that makes you
most comfortable. Do you want to be in the middle of a city? Be within walking distance to bars, shops, and
restaurants? Or do you prefer a more residential area? Do you enjoy a lively night life? Or would you rather
spend your time outdoors exploring nature? Do you want to live close to work? Your daily commute costs
you time and money so its important that you choose a location that wont leave you feeling stressed every
morning and evening. If you plan on living in a familiar area, you have a slight advantage of knowing your
location a little better. No matter where you decide to settle down, do your homework and identify at least
three neighborhoods/areas that youd be comfortable living in.
In an international situation, youll need to start this process early. If you have an in-country connection, ask
your friend or employer to recommend a reputable realtor or rental agency. If you dont know anyone, check
out expatriate sites to get advice on where you should be looking and who you can trust.
Transitionsabroad.com and Goinglobal.com have a wealth of information on living and working abroad.
You can access Goinglobal for free by signing in through Hoya Career Connection Georgetowns
internship and job database.


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Re nt
As you learned in the previous section, your rent should only be about 32% of your monthly income (after
taxes). You dont want to stretch yourself too thin and youll want to be able to go out and have a good time
with your friends! If youre planning to move to an area with a high cost of living, you may need to have a
roommate to help cut the costs. Be realistic about what you can afford, itll make life easier in the long run.
Le ngt h of Le as e
Most rental leases are for one year, but you may be able to find six-month leases or month-to-month leases.
If youre moving to a new area and havent had a chance to visit, you may want to consider a short term lease,
in order to give yourself some flexibility. A short term lease allows you to get settled, learn the area, and if
you need to, move to a neighborhood that fits your needs without having to wait an entire year. The
downside is that short-term leases are usually more expensive than long-term leases. You may want to
consider a one-year lease or even a multiple year lease to lock in the rent. With a multiple year lease, you have
more room for negotiation and the landlord or leasing office may be willing to lower your monthly rent for
the security of knowing youll stay for a while.
Mus t - Have s
We all have little preferences for our living space, so what are your must-haves? Perhaps you have a dog
and you need a pet friendly apartment, or you dont have any furniture and youd like to find a fully furnished
place. Create your list of must-haves and rank them by importance. In most cases, youll have to sacrifice a
few things so its critical to know what you cannot live without. Remember, if you cant afford much in an
expensive city, you may have to forgo some of your desired amenities or you may want to find a roommate.
Below are some common must-haves to get you thinking:
Parking (a parking spot in a city can be an
extra $70 to $200 a month)
Pet friendly
Doorman or some type of security
Storage
Laundry on-site
Trash removal
Balcony or outdoor living space
Pool
Gym
Package holding/delivery
Updated appliances or updated
kitchen/bathroom
Smoking/non-smoking building

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Te c hni que s f or Loc at i ng a Ne w Home
Now that youve answered the important questions, you can actually start looking for your new home. There
are several options for finding an apartment:
1. Use a realtor or broker
2. Walk or drive around a particular area/neighborhood and look for available apartments
3. Use a Web site
Using a Realtor or Broker
In some cities, you will need to use a realtor to find an apartment. If this is the case, make sure you ask lots
of questions up front so that youre not surprised by any fees later. Many realtors will charge you up front to
take you out to look for apartments. Depending on the state, you may have to pay a realtor or broker fee
once you sign the lease to your new place. Despite the costs, realtors can also be very helpful. They often
know the location and market better and can provide you with a realistic picture of what is available and
within your price range. They may also know of available units before theyre listed on general Web sites.
When choosing to live abroad, you need to be aware of the rental practices in your area. Some countries and
cities require you to use a realtor while other areas might use rental agencies to help you locate a place to live.
Walking and Driving Around
If you currently live in or close to your target area, you may prefer to do the search yourself. Some people
find that its helpful to walk or drive around your new neighborhood and look for available apartments.
Many large complexes have signs indicating available units and leasing offices open to answer your questions
or to schedule a formal appointment. Although this option is time consuming, it also allows you to get a feel
for your new neighborhood and potential new home. Take note of the landscaping, see how updated the
buildings are, and ask neighbors about the safety.
If you choose to find your own apartment abroad, make sure to give yourself at least four to six weeks. If
possible, make arrangements to visit or move there and stay in a hotel, hostel, or with a local family while you
search. Its easier to get a sense of the different neighborhoods, the safety, the proximity to work, and to
determine what type of transportation might be necessary.
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Web Sites
This is the easiest and often most convenient way to shop around for an apartment. For international sites,
use Transitions Abroad and expatriate organizations to find useful and trustworthy Web sites. For domestic
searches, sites like Craigslist, Apartments.com, or MyNewPlace.com allow you to search for a unit within
your price range from the comfort of your couch. When doing this, we recommend you pull up Google
Maps or a similar site to get a good idea of actual location.




Check out our list of apartment lingo to help you decipher the postings:
Walk-up No Elevator
Alcove Partly enclosed area connected to a room
Den Small room typically used for an office or small bedroom
Studio/Efficiency One room with a kitchen and bathroom; no separate bedroom
Junior One Bedroom Tiny room w/ or w/o a door off the main room which may only fit a bed
BR Bedroom
BA Bathroom
H/W Hardwood Floors
DW Dishwasher
WIC Walk-in closet
W/D Washer and Dryer
W/D Hook-Up Space and plumbing for washer/dryer, but no actual appliances provided
Granite Usually refers to granite countertops in the kitchen
Updated Just updated appliances or rooms
Newer Updated several years ago, but still looks nice

In December 2010, we performed a quick search for apartments under $1500 in Arlington,
VA, a suburb of DC. One posting we found on Craisglist read, $1350 3 bed/1 bath newly
renovated, easy commute to DC. Now, you might initially think, WOW! What a great
deal! This is it, this is where I want to live. Unfortunately, the actual location of the
apartment is in Winchester, VA and Winchester is not a neighborhood within Arlington; its
a town located about 1.5 hours outside the city! So that easy commute to DC is actually a
2 hour commute, especially with traffic. Dont be deceived by ads; make sure to map out the postings
you find before scheduling your appointments!
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Once you find a bunch of apartments you want to check out, start making phone calls to schedule your visit.
Leave yourself at least 30 minutes for each location so that you dont feel rushed and you have time to ask
questions of the landlord or leasing office. Below are a few more general tips to keep in mind as you go out.
To explore efficiently, youll want to find the best route by mapping out potential apartments before
calling landlords or management companies to schedule your appointments. Dont waste time by
crisscrossing all over the city or neighborhood.
Take pictures or notes on each place so its easier to remember the different features and amenities.
If possible, bring a friend. Its always nice to have a second opinion.
Make sure youve been saving up money! Most places will ask for first months rent and security
deposit. Some places even ask for last months rent too, and theres a good chance that youll be
asked to provide proof of income.
Bring your checkbook and a photo ID for your deposit; you may want to move quickly once youve
found a good fit!
While you check out your potential apartments, make sure to flip the light switches, flush the toilets, run the
water, and check for any bugs or animal droppings. Look for signs of wear and neglect, such as mold in
bathrooms, water stains on ceilings, peeling paint, and more. You want to ensure that the heat and air
conditioning work before signing the lease! You can find a comprehensive checklist on Apartments.com
(http://living.apartments.com/new-apartment-checklist)
Be war e of Re nt al Sc ams
There are a lot of rental scams out there and its important that you safeguard yourself while you search for
your new home. Some of the most common scams will ask you to send money overseas in exchange for the
keys, some will try and rent you property they dont own, and others will ask for personal information thats
typically not necessary. Take the following steps to ensure that you are not a victim.
If looking through Craigslist or other rental Web sites/newspapers, take note of the property
address, telephone number and other contact information. Run a Google search to see if these same
details appear under other entries or show up on blogs or forums as a scam.
Insist on a tour of your property or if its out of the area, see if you can find a friend or realtor to
walk through for you.
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Be wary of landlords or agents that say theyre in a hurry to close the deal and dont allow you
sufficient time to do your research and check out the property.
If you receive vague or suspicious sounding answers to your questions, you may be dealing with a
scammer.
If you come across a suspicious listing or scam, contact your local law enforcement and register a complaint.
There are many blogs and forums on rental scams; one helpful one is www.rentalscams.org.






The Le as e
Once you find your new home, youll need to read through and sign your lease. It can be a long document
with confusing language, but take the time to read it anyway. You dont want to be surprised by anything
later. Double-check that:
The length of lease is correct.
The rent amount is correct.
You understand what youre responsible for fixing and what your landlord or leasing office will cover
when broken.
You understand what youre responsible for in terms of general upkeep vs. the landlord or leasing
office (e.g. if you rent a townhouse or single family home, you may be responsible for cutting the
lawn, trimming the tree, cleaning the gutters, etc.).
You know if your security deposit can go into an interest-bearing account; this may be required by
some states and does not apply to other states.
Everything youve discussed and agreed upon is written in the lease (e.g. painting walls, cleaning the
carpets, etc.).
Remember that if youre in a foreign country, work with a reputable realtor to ensure you understand all
the terms before signing.
If youre looking to rent an apartment and the realtor wants to show it to you at a time that is
convenient for the realtor (and not necessarily convenient for you), they may be hiding something.
One time, I was told I could only see an apartment at noon. I liked it very much and signed the
rental contract there and then. When I moved in, I realized why the realtor only wanted to show
it to me at noon. After 5 p.m., the noise coming from the street was unbearable. There was
constant honking from cars in a hurry to get home. Advice: look at apartments at different times
of the day and take note of the noise/congestion level of that street. Roads that lead to
entrances/exits to highways, bridges, and tunnels are noisier than others. AW, F83
86

Fi ndi ng a Roommat e
If you already have a new roommate lined up, make sure you include them in the process of looking for and
signing your new lease. If you dont already have someone in mind, you can look for a roommate on
Craigslist, use an online matching service, or use your network. Finding a roommate on Craigslist can be
risky, so make sure to interview the person, discuss your lifestyle choices like cleanliness or social schedules
and remember to be completely honest. Its always a good idea to meet in person in a public place. If you
prefer a matching site, you might want to use a popular Web site called Roommates.com, or other similar site.
Sites like these will ask you questions about your preferences and lifestyle to find you a reasonable match.
And finally, dont underestimate your network. Tell all your family and friends that youre looking for a
roommate; perhaps update your Facebook status to notify friends. Often someone will have a friend who
has a sister who has a boyfriend who knows a cousin looking for an apartment and roommate as well!
Referrals can be very helpful.
87

MOVING INTO YOUR NEW HOME
Youve figured out where you want to live; now you just have to get your things there. Two popular options
are discussed below.
Move yourself: Pack up your belongings and convince a few friends to help you lug all your stuff
into your new place. Be a good friend and buy them pizza and drinks; theyll be more appreciative
and motivated to help. If you have a friend with a truck, you may be able to do the move in just a
couple of trips. If you have a lot of big furniture, it may be worth it to rent a U-haul for the day to
do it all in one trip. Make sure you read the fine print when renting a truck; theres usually an initial
fee for a certain amount of time or miles, and then theyll charge you by the hour or by the mile. That
can add up quickly so have a plan, be packed and ready, and get ready to be efficient.
Moving Company: Costs can really vary, so call several companies and compare prices. You should
ask if the company is insured and/or bonded. Now remember, just because a company is insured
and/or bonded does NOT mean it will automatically pay for damages to your home while moving,
or for any items that are broken during the move. Always ask about the companys policies regarding
broken items/furniture or dings to the wall, etc. Youll also want to ask if the company packs for
you. If not, its important that you have all your belongings packed and ready to go prior to the
moving companys arrival. Once the movers get to your place, theyll move very quickly to get all
items into the truck and over to your new home.
A few last tips for you:
Remember to pack a few essentials in a bag or box that you can easily access as soon as you arrive to
your new place (e.g. toothbrush, toothpaste, change of clothes, underwear, toilet paper, sheets for
your bed, trash bag, paper towels, etc.).
Clearly label your boxes with the contents and the room they should be in to minimize time when
unpacking.
Check with grocery stores, flower stores, and liquor stores for boxes. They often toss out boxes at
the end of the day that they would be willing to give away.
If you have items you truly care about, take the time and effort to wrap them in bubble wrap,
newspaper, or whatever else you need to ensure its safety during travel. Nothing is worse than
opening up a box of broken electronics or picture frames.


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Se t t i ng up Ut i l i t i e s
Now that youve figured out how youre going to get your things to your new place, dont forget to call and
set up your utilities. If youre moving into an apartment complex, check with the leasing office or landlord to
determine the electric, gas, and water companies. If youre moving into a town home or single-family home,
you may need research your countys utility companies through a quick online search.
Essential Utilities: You need electricity and water, and depending on where you live, you might also
have a gas company. These are non-negotiable and you need to make sure youve taken these costs
into account when budgeting. Many utility companies can give you an idea of what the average
monthly costs will be to help you prepare. Some companies also have a savings plan that can
provide ease when budgeting. The savings plan allows you to pay the same amount every month and
at the end of the year, theyll check your actual usage and either refund you money you may have
overpaid or bill you for the remainder you still owe.
Nonessential Utilities: Although these may feel like essentials, you dont actually need cable,
Internet, or a phone in your new place. Most people have cell phones so you could save money by
not paying for a landline phone. You will also want to call around to determine which cable
company has the best deal for a new customer. Sometimes you might get a better deal if you bundle
your cable and Internet into one service. If youre stretched thin on your finances, you might have to
get creative on these utilities. You could forgo cable TV and catch some of your shows online,
checking the networks Web site for full episodes, or seeing if you can get your shows on Netflix. Or
you could choose to forgo Internet since many of you have access on your smart phones. Otherwise,
make sure you call and make an appointment well before you move so you dont have to wait several
weeks for your cable or Internet to get hooked up.
Re nt e r s Ins ur anc e
Were giving renters insurance its own section because, in our opinion, this is a must. Renters insurance
covers your possessions and belongings. You may think you dont own much, but youd be surprised how
much your clothes, laptop, TV, and furniture add up to in the end. When you call to get your renters
insurance, check to see what type of coverage you get. Some policies cover fire, flood, theft, and more, while
some policies only cover certain situations. You may also be able to get a deal by combining your renters
insurance with your car insurance, so make sure to ask.
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ESTABLISHING YOURSELF
90

MEETING PEOPLE
Whether youre settling into a familiar place or are moving to a completely new area, its important to start
building or adding onto your social circle. Life is different as a young professional and youre typically not
going to be living in an apartment or neighborhood surrounded by your peers. Itll take a little more effort to
meet up with friends or to make new friends. Here are some different places to meet people:
Alumni Clubs: Take advantage of fellow Hoyas that may be living in your area. Check the Alumni
Web site at alumni.georgetown.edu for a list of regional and international alumni clubs. This is a
great way to network, socialize, and build a support circle in your new locale. If youre staying in a
familiar area, its a great way to stay connected to Georgetown and meet new Hoyas!




Sports Leagues: Depending on your area, various sports leagues are a key way for young
professionals to meet. For example, in the DC area the kickball teams are a fun way to meet new
people, get some physical activity, and relax all, at the same time. So think about what sport you love
or have always wanted to try and look for an adult league to join.
Activities You Enjoy: Maybe you love hiking, running, volunteering, or watching films. Whatever it
is, there is likely to be some type of club, group, or organization for you to join. This is a great way
to meet others that also enjoy your chosen activity and gives you something in common to connect
on initially. Youd be surprised how easy it is to meet new people when youre doing something you
love. Meetup.com is a great Web site where you can search for a group based on your interests or
where you can start your own group.
Facebook Regional Groups: Youre probably already on Facebook, so use it to your advantage.
Join different regional groups, alumni groups, and activity groups online. Youll have a chance to
learn about different events, games, or social events taking place.
Religious Groups: Joining a church, temple, or religious group can also provide you with a sense of
community and strong support network.
Expat Organizations: If youre living abroad, you may want to reach out to your local expat group
to meet other Americans. This is also a great way to get advice and learn about additional options
for you to meet locals and get integrated into your new country and city.
Immediately become involved in your local Georgetown Alumni Club every time you
move to a new city. The connections you develop in it over the years will greatly expand
your Georgetown network. If none exists in your city, look for the nearest Club or
contact and use the Alumni Association to meet local Hoyas. CJR, C94
91

Volunteer Opportunities: Get involved in the community by helping others. Youll have the
chance to meet neighbors and make new friends with people that also enjoy giving back and being
engaged in the community.




All of the options above provide you with at least a semi-structured way to meet others and build new
relationships. You never know who you might connect with through these organizations and often these
connections will lead to friendships and can help you grow your social circle.
Re f e r e nc e s and He l pf ul We b Si t e s

Transitions Abroad: www.transitionsabroad.com
Craigslist: www.craigslist.com
Apartments.com: www.apartments.com
Roommate.com: www.roommate.com
My New Place: www.mynewplace.com
Georgetown Alumni Association: alumni.georgetown.edu
Meet Up: www.meetup.com

As you move on from Georgetown, remember to keep an element of service
to others in your commitments. You will find that the associations made
through volunteer service with an organization, a community, or a cause will
provide you with significant experiences, credentials and networks as you move
through your career. KB, SLL68
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WORK/LIFE BALANCE
Transitioning from college to work is a huge adjustment, and can often take a toll on your physical and
mental health. It is important to remember to find balance in your life so the stress from so many changes
moving, starting a new job, living in a new city, making new friends doesnt take over your life. Finding a
healthy work/life balance can be difficult, but it is crucial to staying healthy and happy. Lets look at some
things that will keep you healthy and help you recognize when its time to either make a change or seek
professional help.
Bal anc e at your Ne w Job
It is common to want to make a good first impression at your new job. You may think this means working
longer hours than are expected of you. Working long hours can lead to burnout. It is true that some
industries and employers expect you to work long hours, but many employers value a work/life balance.
Know your employers expectations. If it is not necessary to work long hours, then think about how you can
adjust some of your working habits to work smarter. This will help you avoid burnout and will allow you
to be more productive in less time. To find balance at your new job, know your expectations and consider
addressing work/life balance during the interview process.
So what does burnout look like? According to Websters Dictionary, burnout is exhaustion of physical or
emotional strength usually as a result of prolonged stress or frustration. Burnout happens when you feel
overwhelmed and cant meet constant demands in your life. You may have experienced burnout with school.
Maybe you took summer school classes and didnt get a break. Maybe you did everything in high school
and got to college feeling like you were tired of classes and tired of being involved in various activities. If you
are feeling burned out on the job, you may notice that it is hard to get motivated to do the work that was
previously easy to accomplish. You may find yourself being less productive and having less energy or feeling
exhausted. The negative effects of burnout may spill over into other areas of your life, including relationships
and social life.
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To help find a good work/life balance and avoid burnout, consider working smarter on the job. We live in
a world of distractions and it is easy to lose focus on the task at hand. Plus, there always seems to be too
much to do in too little time. The following are some tips to help you work smarter so you can find more
time outside of work to create more balance in your life.
Consider your work environment. Think about the things that help you work better. Is it working
under natural light instead of florescent lighting? Is it being away from people who may tempt you
to socialize too much? Maybe it is working away from the Internet for a while. Think about what is
most helpful to you and implement changes that you have control over (you may have to work in a
cubicle instead of an office, but you might be able to control the lighting at your cubicle, for
example).
Set deadlines, especially if they havent been given to you. This will help you get things done in a
timely matter, rather than putting them off.
Break up large projects into smaller projects to make them more manageable.
Check e-mail messages regularly, as needed, but not all the time. If you respond to every
message that comes into your inbox immediately, you will constantly be distracted from the task at
hand.
Avoid surfing the Internet too much. It is easy to take a break, check something, and then get lost
on the computer. Internet surfing has the potential to take over your time and make you less
productive.
Dont fiddle with your smartphone unless you need it for work. Its easy to get lost in text
messages, calls that last over an hour, games and other activities that seem more appealing than your
work.
Colleagues can be a wonderful break from work, but they can also take away valuable time. Do
you regularly gather around the water cooler to chat? Do you gossip with your neighbor about the
latest office news? Think about those conversations that pull you away from your work and try to
limit them.
Try to stay positive! Set backs may happen, so keep them in perspective.

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STAYING HEALTHY, PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY
Eat i ng He al t hy
Eat Breakfast. It is easy to skip the first meal of the day, but youve heard it before: it is your most
important meal! Eating breakfast can stabilize your blood sugar and give you the energy you need to
start off your day.
Eat Lots of Fruits and Veggies. We all need the vitamins and minerals provided by these natural
foods. If you are looking for local, organic foods, visit localharvest.org.
Dont Load Up on too Much Caffeine. Caffeine overload can lead to sleep disturbances, poor
concentration, nervousness, decreased effectiveness, irritability, headaches, anxiety, and more
negative effects.
Slow Down on the Sugar Intake. Excess sugar can cause numerous negative symptoms including
mood swings, fatigue, poor concentration and other negative consequences in the short term, and
more serious health concerns like hypoglycemia and type-2 diabetes in the long term.
Consider Limiting your Alcohol Intake. Alcohol can be very hard on your body, play a role in
weight gain, cost a lot of money and make you feel hung-over leading to a less productive work day
tomorrow! Its hard to say exactly what a healthy alcohol intake is. Under the U.S. health guidelines,
moderate drinking is defined as: a maximum of three drinks per occasion, or 7 drinks a week for
women. For men, a maximum of four drinks per occasion, or 14 drinks per week. You know
yourself best, so be aware of your own limits and recognize the consequences to binge drinking.
He al t hy Habi t s
Exercise Regularly: Finding time to exercise on a regular basis can be tough, especially given your
new schedule and recent life changes. Try to find a time that works well for you whether its
before you go to work, during your lunch break or immediately when you get home. Some work
environments might even offer time during the day to use the gym. Whatever time works for you,
find something that you really enjoy. If you love to swim, go to the local community pool. If youve
always wanted to try tennis, then do it! Exercising can have numerous benefits; it is an outlet for
your frustrations and a great way to release negative emotions. Exercise provides a natural boost for
your mood it impacts your neurotransmitters in a positive way. It is also a way to meet new friends
with common interests. Additionally, youll find you have more energy, better focus, less stress, and
youll look and feel good, too.
Get Enough Sleep! Sleep can help you lower your stress levels immediately. When we are under a
lot of stress, we often dont sleep well or we dont leave enough time in our schedules to get the
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amount of sleep we need to feel refreshed. Some of us get so used to too little sleep that we dont
remember what it is like to feel rested. If you regularly find yourself short on sleep, you can try a few
things to help you at night. Unwind before you go to bed. Listen to some relaxing music. Clean up
some clutter in your home (so you can relax and not worry about doing it tomorrow). Take a bubble
bath. Drink some herbal tea. Try journaling (and get those racing thoughts out of your head and
onto paper). Or try meditating (see below). Also, avoid caffeine after 2 pm, dont go straight from
the TV or computer to bed, and dont work on stressful things, like finances, right before you go to
sleep.
Relaxation and Meditation: We are always on the go and it can be difficult to slow down and
breathe. Spending just a few minutes meditating can help calm your mind and body and produce a
deep state of relaxation. Meditation has become a common practice to reduce stress for many
reasons. It is inexpensive, doesnt require special equipment and it is something you can do
anywhere you go whether you are taking the bus to work or are at a stressful business meeting.
There are many benefits to meditation including: gaining a new perspective on stressful situations,
increased self-awareness, focusing on the present and reducing negative emotions.
Enjoying Hobbies: What do you like to do? During your time at Georgetown, you may have been
involved in numerous activities. In addition to classes, jobs and internships, you may have been
involved with DC Reads, the CORP, the South Asian Society, or countless other organizations. Now
that you will likely be working nine to five, it may be harder to incorporate activities in the same way
you used to. Think about what you enjoy the most outside of work, and how you want to
incorporate those activities. Whether it is sports, music, or art, make sure you create room in your
life for the things you love outside of work!
Build your Support Network: Having close friends and family in your life can have huge benefits
on your overall health. They are your built-in support network! They can be critical in times of
stress, helping you along in the tough times whether it is a bad day at work or the end of a
relationship. Some of the benefits of a support network include: creating a sense of belonging,
increased sense of self-worth and building feelings of security. It takes time and effort to build new
friendships. As you begin this new chapter of your life, think about ways you can grow your support
network. Consider having a cup of coffee with a new coworker, say hello to a new neighbor or give
your sister a call. You can also join a gym, volunteer for a cause that is important to you, visit your
local church, synagogue or other religious service to meet new people and start developing new
relationships. And theres always Facebook and other social networking (which is great for keeping
in touch with others, but dont forget the importance of face-to-face contact, too!).
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Guard your Personal Time: It is easy to get in the habit of working long days and taking on a lot of
activities. It is common to fill up your calendar with constant action. As a result of this fast-paced
lifestyle, the first thing to go is often your personal time. Stevan Hobfoll, PhD, a professor of
psychology at Kent State University, and co-author of Work Won't Love You Back: The Dual Career
Couple's Survival Guide says that, protecting your personal time is an important part of creating a
satisfying and productive life, both at work and in your personal life. (Hobfoll, S. & Hobfoll, I.,
1994).
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RECOGNIZING WHEN TO SEEK HELP
We all experience sadness from time to time it is a normal part of life. Times of transition and change can
stir up stuff within us, making us more vulnerable than we are during more steady times in our life. Do you
suspect that your sadness is more than just typical blues? Are you developing anxiety that might be more
than just normal nervousness? Lets explore some signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression that
may indicate it is time for you to seek out help. The following is a list from Richard Kadison, M.D., author of
College of the Overwhelmed (2005).
Sleep changes (early morning wakening,
waking through the night, or trouble
getting out of bed in the morning can all
be early warning signs of depression)
Increase or decrease of appetite
Loss of motivation
Social withdrawal
Loss of concentration
Feelings of hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities that are usually
pleasurable
Intense worry without foundation for
concern
Small problems that feel overwhelming
Reduced feelings of self-esteem
Physical symptoms of anxiety: rapid heart
rate, upset stomach, feelings of panic,
headaches, sweaty palms.

If you have some of these symptoms and they have been persistent for more than a couple of weeks, it may
be worthwhile to contact a mental health professional. Many organizations have Employee Assistance
Programs, which are a great place to start. Employee Assistance Programs usually offer short term
counseling as well as mental health referrals in the community. Additional sources for finding help include
your family doctor, mental health specialists (psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, etc.), and religious
leaders. You can find local mental health specialists from your health insurance carrier or Web sites such as
Psychology Today (http://therapists.psychologytoday.com) and the American Counseling Association
(www.counseling.org).
The following sites are recommended for learning more about specific mental health conditions:
National Institute of Mental Health: www.nimh.nih.gov
National Mental Health Association: www.nmha.org
Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration (SAMHSA): http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov
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CHANGING CAREERS
If there comes a point in your life when you start thinking about a career change, there are many places to
turn for help. The Career Education Center can still help with some aspects of this change; please contact us
at 202-687-3493 to discuss your options. At the same time, it is often helpful to consult someone who may be
able to work with you individually to redefine your career goals. Just as the career counselors at Georgetown
can help you clarify your values, interests, and skills, many people turn to either career counselors or career
coaches for individualized assistance in identifying, and then taking, their next steps.
There are a few differences between each type of professional. Career counselors should have a background
in counseling, or perhaps in a closely-related helping profession (such as social work). They are well-versed
not only in career assessments, trends, and the practical pieces of the job search process (including rsums,
cover letters, and more), but are also interested in helping clients explore the different aspects of their
personality and life that are influencing their career choices. You can identify potential counselors through
Employee Assistance Programs at work (which should offer confidential services), your health insurance, and
Web sites like the National Board of Certified Counselors (www.nbcc.org/directory/FindCounselors.aspx).
Career coaches, on the other hand, tend to be much more directive in their approach to helping you identify
your next steps. Coaches may or may not have a counseling background, and may or may not be certified by a
governing body. Many coaches may be available by phone or e-mail, and will often play more of a partnering
role in helping you take concrete steps in your next career move. Its important to understand exactly what a
career coach is promising, and to be clear on your expectations and goals. An overview of the certifications,
along with a searchable directory, can be found at www.certifiedcareercoaches.com.
As you prepare for a career change, you may also want to consider saving some extra money for a move, a
return to school, or to cover a loss of salary if you have to leave your current position. Thinking ahead will
allow you to feel less stress as youre choosing your next career move. Consider opening a savings account
that is designed only for this purpose, into which you contribute a set amount of money each month, and do
not touch. That freedom will allow you to really explore your options and find the best next move.
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Making a career change is a big adjustment; whether or not you seek professional assistance, please keep in
mind that it can be a stressful time. Staying in touch with friends and family, doing the things you love, and
maintaining a healthy lifestyle will all have a positive impact on your process of seeking and implementing
change. There may come a time when a career change isnt feasible due to life circumstances or other
extenuating factors, even if you feel emotionally ready for a change. If you find this to be true, you may want
to find some ways to expand your current position or get additional experience that will help open doors for
you in the future. For example, taking on a responsibility at work that will be challenging and new may
provide you with the enthusiasm you need to continue doing the rest of your job well. In addition, you may
want to consider volunteer work or another experiential action to familiarize yourself with other options.

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TO OUR NEWEST GEORGETOWN ALUMNI,
We hope this document has been helpful in addressing some of the issues you may be thinking about, and
perhaps has given you some additional thoughts about how to successfully take the next steps in your
journey.
These next steps in life can bring forth a lot of emotions, ranging from fear to excitement and everything in
between. Lean on the people around you in the midst of this transition; doing so will make it more
manageable.
Wherever you are, and wherever youre headed, know that youve developed a strong foundation while at
Georgetown. Your accomplishments and growth here will serve you well; no doubt they already have. Weve
felt privileged to be a part of your undergraduate experience. In the years to come, keep in mind that
Georgetown can continue to be a part of your life through the alumni network and the strong Hoya ties
throughout the world. The Career Education Center and the Alumni Association are two of the offices that
will continue to be useful resources for you. We can be reached at:
CAREER EDUCATION CENTER
http://careerweb.georgetown.edu
202-687-3493
careercenter@georgetown.edu

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
http://alumni.georgetown.edu
202-687-3604
guaa@georgetown.edu
We wish you all the best in your transition from college and in the years to come!
HOYA SAXA,
The Career Education Center


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REFERENCES
102

REFERENCES
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Cosentino, M. P. (2007). Case in point: Complete case interview preparation (5
th
ed.). Needham, MA: Burgee Press.

Covey, S. (2004). Seven habits of highly effective people.(Revised ed.). New York, NY: Free Press.

Fisher, R. & Ury, W. (1991). Getting to yes. New York, NY: Penguin Books.

Georgetown University (2010). About: Jesuit and catholic identity. Retrieved October 12, 2010,
from http://www.georgetown.edu/about/jesuit-and-catholic-heritage

Graham, B., & Reidy, M. (2009). Working world 101: The new grads guide to getting a job. Avon. MA: Adams
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Heath, C. & Heath, D. (2007). Made to stick: Why some ideas survive and others die. New York, NY: Random
House.

Hobfoll, S. & Hobfoll, I. (1994). Work won't love you back: The dual career couple's survival guide. New York, NY:
W. H. Freeman.

IRAs. (n.d.) In Vanguard online. Retrieved from www.vanguard.com/us/whatweoffer/ira

Kadison, R. (2005). College of the Overwhelmed: The Campus Mental Health Crisis and What to Do About It. San
Fransisco, CA: Jossey Bass.

Leifman, H. (2003). Vault guide to resumes, cover letters & interviewing. (3
rd
ed.). New York, NY: Vault Inc.

Miller, L. & Miller, J. (2002). A woman's guide to successful negotiating. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Ramsey, D. (2009). Total money makeover: A proven plan for financial fitness. (3
rd
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Nelson.

Sabath, A. M. (1993). Business etiquette in brief. Avon. MA: Bob Adams, Inc.

Thakor, M., & Kedar, S. (2007). On my own two feet: A modern girls guide to personal finance. Avon. MA: Adams
Media.

Watkins, M. (2003). The first 90 days: Critical success strategies for new leaders at all levels. (1
st
ed.). Boston, MA:
Harvard Business Press.

Wegerbauer, M. L. (1999). Job offer! A how-to negotiation guide. Indianapolis, IN: Jist Publishing.

Wetfeet. (2005). Ace your case!: Consulting interviews. Wetfeet insider guide. (2
nd
ed.). New York, NY: Wetfeet, Inc.

Wise, C. C. (2009). The Vault college career bible. New York, NY: Vault Inc.



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APPENDIX
104

INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC WEBSITES

Ac c ount i ng
Jobs in the Money: www.efinancialcareers.com
Search for jobs and internships in accounting and finance by job description, company name, and
location. Allows for easy online rsum submission and application.
CareerBank: http://careerbank.com
Search for job listings for careers in accounting, finance, insurance, banking, and the mortgage
industry. Allows for easy online rsum submission and application.
iHire Accounting: http://ihireaccounting.com
Search thousands of accounting jobs from exclusive job postings, Internet job boards, newspapers,
and classified ads.
SmartPros Accounting: http://accountingnet.com
Subscribers receive weekly e-mails including the latest news, information, and resources in the field
of accounting. Their career center feature allows you to search for job listings on both Jobs in the
Money and CareerBank.com.
Careers in Accounting: www.careers-in-accounting.com
Careers in Accounting provides detailed descriptions of career opportunities in the field of
accounting. It provides an overview of the qualifications necessary for careers in public, tax, auditing,
and managerial accounting.

Ar t s
American Association of Museums: www.aam-us.org/aviso/index.cfm
This site allows you to search for job postings for museum-related careers. You can post rsums for
employers to view. Members are notified via e-mail of new job postings.
Arts Opportunities: www.artsopportunities.org
Arts Opportunities is an online classifieds bank serving the arts industries. Search for full-time and
part-time positions, internships, submission calls, and auditions.
Artjob Online: www.artjob.org
Artjob features up-to-date national listings of jobs, internships, fellowships and other employment
opportunities in the arts. Site includes opportunities in the fields of visual arts, arts nonprofits,
performing arts, commercial art and design firms, film, public arts agencies, academic arts positions,
galleries, internships, fellowships, conferences, commissions and more.
Institute for the Management of Creative Enterprises: www.artsnet.org/databases/artsresources
Useful site that allows you to access a multitude of other career service Web sites designed to aid arts
related career searches. Additionally, it allows you to search for career, internship, and graduate
program opportunities related to the arts.
Backstage Jobs: www.backstagejobs.com
Backstage Jobs features job and internship listings in the live entertainment industry. There are plenty
of behind-the-scenes opportunities listed in the areas of electrics, sets, props, costumes, sound, and
management.
Creative Hotlist: www.creativehotlist.com
Creative Hotlist allows you to search jobs and internships in the arts. Additionally, it allows you to
create a portfolio of your artwork for potential employers to view.

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Capi t ol Hi l l and Pol i t i c al Jobs
The Hill: http://thehill.com
Online newspaper for and about the U.S. Congress. Includes a jobs section.
RC Jobs: www.rcjobs.com
A political job site run by Roll Call, a leading source for Congressional news.
Congressional Quarterly: http://corporate.cqrollcall.com
Internship and full-time opportunities on Capitol Hill (click on "Hill Jobs").
Hill Zoo: www.hillzoo.com/jobs
Site for Congressional staffers and Capitol Hill legislative community members. The jobs section
divides postings by political party and also lists off-hill jobs.

Cons ul t i ng Cor por at e
Jobs in the Money: www.jobsinthemoney.com
Search for jobs and internships in accounting and financial consulting by job description, company
name, and location. Allows for easy online rsum submission and application.
Consulting Magazine: http://consultingmag.com
Members can access daily articles with top stories affecting the consulting industry. Non-members
are able to access the extensive job search engine.
Consulting Central: http://consultingcentral.com
Consulting Central offers consulting market research and trends, specializing in Management and IT
consulting.

Educ at i on
Chronicle of Higher Education: www.chronicle.com
A premier resource for higher education faculty and student affairs nationwide.
Charter Schools: www.uscharterschools.org
Comprehensive site for charter schools and charter school job postings.
Institute for International Education: www.iie.org
Job listings and helpful resources for international education opportunities.
National Association of Independent Schools: http://nais.org
Large database of job openings in independent schools. Click on Career Center tab to search.
Southern Teachers Agency: www.southernteachers.com
Places teachers in public and private schools throughout the southeastern United States.
Teachingjobs: TeachingJobs.com
Search for teaching jobs in the U.S. and abroad.

Envi r onme nt al
EcoEmploy: EcoEmploy.com
Search job listings, research employers and environmental agencies.
EnvironmentalCAREER: EnvironmentalCAREER.com
In addition to job listings, this site has information on events including job fairs and conferences.
There are also resources on environmental degree programs, training courses, workshops,
professional associations and more.
Environmental Expert: www.environmental-expert.com
Find national and international jobs and events. Search journals, magazines and articles.
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Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): www.epa.gov
EPA works to develop and enforce regulations that implement environmental laws enacted by
Congress. This site has the most recent environmental information and career opportunities for
internships, fellowships, student employment, and employment programs for recent grads.
Environmental Careers Organization: www.eco.org
This site features a comprehensive career center with tips about environmental fields. Also contains
links to other sites.

Fi nanc e
eFinancial Careers: efinancialcareers.com
Search for jobs and internships in many finance-related sectors by job description, company name,
and location. News and a weekly newsletter available too.
Wall St. Jobs: www.wallstjobs.com
Search for jobs and internships on Wall Street or simply in finance. Allows you to post rsum and
contact information for employers to view. Also offers additional career services, including rsum
and interview help.
CareerBank: careerbank.com
Search for jobs and internships in accounting, finance, insurance, banking, and the mortgage
industry. Allows for easy online rsum submission and application.
Vault Finance: www.vault.com
Vaults Finance page allows you to research employers, career paths, and starting salaries in finance.
Additionally, it provides job search advice and allows for networking among financial employers and
other users. The job board allows for easy online rsum submission and application. Also includes
an extensive internship database.
Bloomberg: www.bloomberg.com
Bloomberg provides the breaking news, market data, and investment tools to help you keep up with
the world of finance.

Gove r nme nt
USA Jobs: www.usajobs.opm.gov
The official job site of the U.S. government.
Student Jobs: www.usajobs.com/studentjobs
One-stop shopping for information about student employment and internships in the U.S.
government
Call to Serve: www.ourpublicservice.org/OPS/programs/calltoserve
A comprehensive, user-friendly site that helps take the mystery out of looking for a government job
or internship.
U.S. Department of State: www.state.gov
Find out about internships (generally unpaid) and cooperative education opportunities (generally
paid) with the State Department.

He al t h
Career Education Center's NHS Site
This section of our site offers career advice, job and internship search tools, and sample rsums for
students in Nursing and Health Studies.
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Partnership for Public Service: www.makingthedifference.org
Information on jobs in the Federal Government for those with backgrounds in the biological
sciences, medical areas (clinical, research, public health and health policy), and physical sciences.
Learn more about the positions and agencies hiring those with science backgrounds.
Biotechnology Industry Organization: www.bio.org
This is a great site to learn about the biotechnology industry and the issues, businesses, and
opportunities in this field.
Sloan Career Cornerstone Center: www.careercornerstore.org
A non-profit resource center for those exploring career paths in science, technology, engineering,
mathematics, and medicine.

Int e l l i ge nc e
Intelligence Careers: www.intelligencecareers.com
Search intelligence-related positions listed with private companies.
U.S. Intelligence Community: www.intelligence.gov
Search a comprehensive list of the departments and agencies within the federal government who are
responsible for intelligence work.
Careers in National Defense: www.godefense.com
This site helps to take the confusion out of applying for an internship or job within the Department
of Defense.

Int e r nat i onal De ve l opme nt
AlertNet: www.trust.org/alertnet/jobs
Reuters' humanitarian news site, complete with extensive jobs section.
The Development Executive Group: www.devex.com
Provides business and efficiency services to international development organizations. Allows you to
search for jobs in international development.
Dev Jobs: www.devjobsmail.com
Jobs and resources related to international development
Directory of Development Organizations: www.devdir.org
A wide range of organizations are included in the directory: international organizations, government
ministries, private sector institutions, development agencies, universities, research and training
institutes, NGOs/PDOs, grantmakers, banks, microfinance institutions, and development consulting
firms.

Jour nal i s m & Publ i s hi ng
Media Bistro: www.mediabistro.com
Media Bistro offers up-to-date news concerning all forms of media, including online publications,
advertising, magazine and book publishing, and journalism. Offers online workshops to increase your
skill set in a specific media field. Additionally, it allows you to search for jobs and internships in
media related fields.
Ed2010: www.ed2010.com
Ed2010 gives access to a community of magazine editors and writers who are dedicated to informing
people about the industry and landing them positions at magazine companies. It includes current
news, mentors, and job and internship postings.
108

Book Jobs: www.bookjobs.com
Book Jobs provides basic information about the book publishing industry and offers a centralized
place for job seekers to research available positions throughout the publishing industry.
Journalism Jobs: www.journalismjobs.com
Journalism Jobs allows you to search jobs in all media fields, including newspapers, magazines, online
media, television, radio, and more. It is the largest and most visited online site for journalism jobs.
I Want Media: www.iwantmedia.com
This Web site focuses on diversified media news and resources. It provides quick access to media
news and industry data, updated throughout the day. It also provides access to other job hunting
Web sites for careers in the media.

Mar ke t i ng, Adve r t i s i ng & Publ i c Re l at i ons
Talent Zoo: www.talentzoo.com
Talent Zoo allows you to search advertising, marketing, media, and Web jobs. You can also get
current news feeds with industry related stories and updates.
Media Bistro: www.mediabistro.com
Media Bistro offers up-to-date news concerning all forms of media, including online publications,
advertising, magazine and book publishing, and journalism. Offers online workshops to increase
your skill set in a specific media field. Additionally, it allows you to search for jobs and internships in
media related fields.
Public Relations Society of America: www.prsa.org
This site offers a wealth of knowledge about the ins and outs of public relations. The job center
allows you to search jobs, post a rsum, and seek a mentor.
International Association of Business Communicators: www.iabc.com
This site allows you to search job listings in business communications and provides links to easy job
applications. Student members are privy to networking and training opportunities and many other
perks.
Advertising Educational Foundation: www.aef.com
The Advertising Education Foundation provides educational content to enrich your understanding
of advertising and to expand and elevate advertising discourse.

Me di a & Ent e r t ai nme nt
Showbiz Jobs: www.showbizjobs.com
Showbiz Jobs is a career site dedicated to matching professional candidates and media enterprises. It
focuses on job disciplines that drive the entertainment business, including operations, accounting,
finance, marketing, sales, legal, graphic arts, production, post-production, production management,
internships, and administration.
Entertainment Careers: www.entertainmentcareers.net
Entertainment Careers allows you to search jobs, internships, and career information in the
entertainment industry. Members can get job and internship updates sent via e-mail.
IfCome: http://ifcome.tripod.com
IfCome.com provides information about business affairs, legal affairs, jobs, and job changes in the
television, entertainment, motion picture, Internet, new media and dot-com industries.
109

Variety: www.variety.com
While Variety is mainly an online magazine for news in the media and entertainment world, it also
features a helpful job search engine.
Entertainment Jobs: www.entertainmentjobs.com
Subscribers to Entertainment Jobs have access to an extensive database of companies in the
entertainment industry. It features all of the latest job and internship opportunities with those
companies. Additionally, subscribers will find useful editorials about job and internship searches in
the entertainment industry.

Nonpr of i t
Idealist: www.idealist.org
Provides a job and internship database and a list of over 41,000 organizations in its employer
directory.
Nonprofit Career Network: www.nonprofitcareer.com
Dedicated to the nonprofit sector of today's business and economic world; a good source of
information on nonprofit organizations and job and volunteer opportunities.
Opportunity Knocks: www.opportunityknocks.org
This site contains all levels of jobs in the nonprofit sector, as well as links to other nonprofit sites and
job sites.
NGO Global Network: www.ngo.org
The home page for the global NGO community (non-governmental organizations associated with
the United Nations) offers a comprehensive list of NGOs throughout the nation.
DeepSweep: www.deepsweep.com
DeepSweep provides job seekers with a large selection of nonprofit job postings on this nonprofit
job board.
Dot.Org.Jobs: www.dotorgjobs.com
Jobs in the nonprofit world.
PNN Online: www.pnnonline.org
A resource for nonprofit news and information.
Nonprofit Job Market: www.nonprofitjobmarket.org
Search for nonprofit jobs, internships and volunteer opportunities on this site.

Publ i c Pol i c y
Americas Future Foundation: http://americasfuture.org
This is the official site of the Americas Future Foundation, which is the premier nonprofit network
of young conservative and libertarian leaders nationwide. This site also features a career center with
related job and internship opportunities.
Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management: www.appam.org
This Web site offers many features for those seeking jobs in public policy analysis and management,
including advanced searches for job, e-mail and RSS alerts when new jobs match criteria and
anonymous rsum listings for employers to search.
Atlas Economic Research Foundation: http://atlasnetwork.org



110

Se r vi c e and Vol unt e e r Si t e s
Peace Corps: www.peacecorps.gov
Comprehensive site detailing the mission of the Peace Corps, application information, and current
world events.
Americorps: www.americorps.gov
Web site for this national network of service programs with information on past projects and an
FAQ section including information on financial help for volunteers.
Jesuit Volunteer Corps: www.jesuitvolunteers.org
International volunteer program including regional information and profiles of previous volunteer
projects.
St. Vincent Pallotti Center: www.pallotticenter.org
Information for prospective volunteers, including the Connections list with many faith-based
volunteer opportunities.

111

SAMPLE BUDGET SPREADSHEET
CATEGORY MONTHLY
BUDGET
MONTHLY
ACTUAL
DIFFERENCE
INCOME:
Wages and Bonuses
Miscellaneous Income
Income Subtotal
INCOME TAXES WITHHELD:
Federal Income Tax
State and Local Income Tax
Social Security/Medicare Tax
Income Taxes Subtotal
Spendable Income
HOME EXPENSE:
Mortgage or Rent
Property Taxes
Repairs/Maintenance/HOA Dues
UTILITIES EXPENSE:
Electricity/Water/Gas
Telephone (Land Line, Cell)
FOOD EXPENSE:
Groceries
Eating Out, Lunches, Snacks
HEALTH & MEDICAL EXPENSE:
Insurance (medical, dental, vision)
Unreimbursed Expenses, Copays
112

Fitness (Massages, Gym, etc.)
TRANSPORTATION EXPENSE:
Car Payments
Gasoline/Oil Changes
Auto Repairs/Maintenance/Fees
Auto Insurance
Public Transportation
DEBT PAYMENTS EXPENSE:
Credit Cards
Student Loans
Other Loans
ENTERTAINMENT/RECREATION:
Cable TV/Movies/Magazine
Computer Expense (Internet)
PETS EXPENSE:
CLOTHING EXPENSE:
INVESTMENTS AND SAVINGS:
401(K)or IRA
Stocks/Bonds/Mutual Funds
Savings
Emergency Fund
MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSE:
Total Investments and Expenses
Surplus or Shortage
http://financialplan.about.com/cs/budgeting/l/blbudget.htm

HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
JOB SEARCH DOCUMENTS
(RSUM, COVER LETTER,
WRITING SAMPLE, & REFERENCES)


The goal of the rsum is to summarize experiences as they relate to a specific job description. Your rsum
should be one page, printed neatly on rsum paper (using a laser printer), and without spelling errors. Refer to the
samples attached to this handout for formatting guidelines and ideas, but remember, your rsum should
represent you and also catch the employers eye. Rsum guidelines may vary between industries, so its always a
good idea to familiarize yourself with specific industry examples. The following are a few general guidelines to
keep in mind as you write your rsum:

! Do customize. This means tailoring your rsum: detailing work and extracurricular experiences
applicable to the job and industry you are targeting.
! Do be concise. Use brief, succinct statements and keep it to one page.
! Do keep font size to 10, 11, or 12 pt and set margins to no less than 0.5 inch all around.
! Do pay attention to verb tense! Use past tense when describing past positions and present tense
for your current position(s).
! Do be consistent with punctuation use.
! Do use the phone number where the employer can reach you to set up an interview. Do make
sure your voice mail greeting is professional!
! Do include an email address. Do make sure that the address is professional (for instance, no
partygrrl@gmail.com)!
! Do include a GPA if 3.0 or better (including/excluding GPA ultimately is up to you, but also
depends on the industry you are targeting). Do consider including your GPA in your major if it
is significantly higher than the cumulative GPA; be sure to label each appropriately.
! Do refer to the Action Verbs sheet attached to this handout use these as an alternative to
common action verbs such as do/did, completed, responsible for, etc.
! Do include a relevant subject line in the email, such as Technical Writer Position #4420.
! Do heed aesthetics print all documents on rsum paper and use a laser printer.
! Do include multiple titles and responsibilities if you had multiple roles at one organization.

Dont lie, exaggerate, or include something that you would not feel comfortable discussing in an
interview.
Dont include an Objective subheading, unless you can be specific about the position to which
you are applying (ordinarily, you omit it and state your objective in your cover letter).
Dont use Georgetown jargon or acronyms without explaining (e.g. GUSA, MSB, etc.).
Dont rely on spell-check! Have someone read over your rsum for typos and remember
spell-check wont tell you if youve spelled the company name incorrectly.
Dont use the word I or other first-person pronouns.
Dont include personal data (e.g. birth date, marital status, hobbies, or interests).
Dont use dark or speckled paper that can be difficult to read once photocopied or faxed.
HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY

RSUM FORMATTING

St ep 1: Header
" Make your name stand out; you want the employer to remember you. Your name should be in bold and
in a slightly larger font than the rest of the rsum.
" Below your name, list your current mailing address, phone number, and the email address you most
frequently use. You may use your permanent mailing address if you wish.

St ep 2: Educ at i on
" Always list your most recent education first. Indicate your university, your school (e.g. Georgetown
College), major, minor(s), and graduation year.
" Include your GPA (optional, see Dos above); you may also include your GPA for your major and
minor if you wish, especially if they are higher than your total GPA.

St ep 3: Experi enc e
" There are three main formats for summarizing your experience: Chronological, Functional, and Combination.
You will find Chronological and Combination summarized below, as these are the most commonly used
and preferred by most job applicants and employers. Remember that relevant experience can include
jobs, internships, volunteer experiences and coursework.

" Chronological is most commonly used by college students. This format lists your experiences
chronologically and is familiar to (and often preferred by) employers. This format is the best way to
showcase your experiences while highlighting all of your assets.
1. List experiences, starting with your most recent position.
2. On the first line write the name of the company, location and the dates you worked.
3. On the next line write the title of your position.
4. Include three or four sentences describing what your position entailed. Think about what you
actually contributed to the job or organization and how your role was significant. The use of
bullets makes the rsum easy to read. Refer to the attached Action Verbs sheet for help in
choosing energetic verbs; try to avoid using responsibilities include and did.

" Combination (of Chronological and Functional formats) allows you to highlight your experience in
specific fields. Work experiences are listed chronologically under functional categories (e.g., Financial,
Legal, etc.).
1. Create categories based on skills that are most important to the job field (e.g. Financial,
Education, Research, Technology, etc.)
2. List work experiences under each category starting with your most recent position.
3. Follow steps 2 to 4 as outlined under the Chronological format.

St ep 4: Ac t i vi t i es
" This is the place to list your extra-curricular activities, such as sports, on-campus involvement, volunteer
experience, etc. You may provide a brief description of accomplishments and responsibilities for each if
you wish.

St ep 5: Ski l l s
" Important skills to include are:
o Languages (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced or Fluent)
o Technical skills; list specific software with which you are familiar (e.g. MS Word, Excel,
PowerPoint, WordPerfect, Adobe Photoshop, etc.)
o Any specific training or certification programs you have completed that would be relevant to the
job for which you are applying.
o You may list these under two separate subtitles (Extracurricular Activities and Skills) or one
(Skills & Activities) if you need to conserve space.

HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
[Chronological Sample]
MADISON A. CRAWFORD

Georgetown University, Box 00001
Washington, DC 20057
(202) 123-4567
mac555@georgetown.edu
EDUCATION
Georgetown University, Georgetown College, Washington, DC
Bachelor of Arts, May 2011
Major: Government, Cumulative GPA: 3.5/4.0, Major GPA 3.8/4.0, Deans List (2 Semesters)

Georgetown Universitys Villa le Balze, Florence, Italy
Fall 2009; one of 30 Georgetown students selected to participate in the program

EXPERIENCE
The Office of Congressman Waxman, Washington, DC
Congressional Intern, January 2010 May 2010, January 2011 Present
" Research and analyze policy on climate change for the Committee on Energy and Commerce
" Read and draft responses to bill legislation and press releases
" Engage and respond to constituents via phone, email and in-person
" Attend Congressional sessions and briefings, creating summary memos for Congressman Waxman

The Ge or ge t own Ti me s , Georgetown University, Washington, DC
Assistant Leisure Editor, August 2009 Present
" Assist Leisure Editor in copy management, article planning and layout for monthly publication
" Write reviews and feature stories with an emphasis on international films
" Train writers and assistants for distribution of over 2,500 weekly issues

Staff Writer, October 2008 May 2009
" Wrote weekly reviews and feature stories on topics such as university and community relations
" Interviewed nationally recognized stand-up comic and wrote front page article

Calvert County States Attorney, Prince Frederick, MD
Legal Intern, June August 2008, June August 2009
" Conducted extensive legal research to create an Excel database of cases for the States Attorney and his
assistants
" Performed administrative and clerical duties for a 15 person office

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Residential Judicial Council, Georgetown University, Washington, DC
Council Member, September 2009 May 2010
" Elected as a council member on Georgetowns Residential Judicial Council and assessed incident reports of
student code violations
" Facilitated weekly case hearings and interacted with culpable students to discuss disciplinary procedures

Caminando Unidos (Walking Together), Cuernavaca, Mxico
Volunteer, January 2008 March 2008
" Supervised 17 underprivileged and homeless Mexican children
" Taught hygiene, reading, writing, and other life skills

TECHNICAL & LANGUAGE SKILLS
" MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook; WordPerfect, Adobe Photoshop
" Advanced Spanish (speaking, reading, writing, comprehension)
" Intermediate Italian (speaking, reading, writing, comprehension)
HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
[Combination sample]
DIEGO SCHWARTZ
drs001@georgetown.edu
202.555.4321
Current (through May 2011) Permanent
Georgetown University, Box 0002 Paddington Court 10500
Washington, DC 20057 Cambridge, MA 02124



EDUCATION

Georgetown University, Walsh School of Foreign Service, Washington, DC
Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service, International Economics; Expected Graduation: May 2011
Concentration: International Commerce and Finance. GPA: 3.5/4.0
Relevant Coursework: Multinational Corporations, Export Management, Asia and the World, International Business
Diplomacy

FINANCIAL EXPERIENCE

Georgetown University Student Federal Credit Union, Washington, DC
Board of Directors, March 2010 Present
Coordinate overall operations and transactions for 1,500 members and an asset amount of $900,000. Conduct
extensive internal auditing and train new loan officers. Consult on the hiring of loan officers and other personnel.

Credit Chairperson, June August 2008, May August 2009
Revised and implemented lending policies and practices. Lent over $200,000 to 70 members and recorded no loan
losses. Supervised staff of six seniors and juniors.

Loan Officer, June August 2007, June August 2008
Analyzed loan applications and approved loans for students. Provided financial counseling for members. Designed
and implemented summer mailing resulting in 40% growth in membership.

Diegos Ties, North Canton, OH
Entrepreneur, June August 2007
Developed clientele through door-to-door marketing; earned $1,250 from one summer of sales of mens ties. Hired
and trained assistant marketing staff.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE

Agency for International Development, Washington, DC
Research Intern, June 2009 Present
Examine economic assistance policies with under-developed countries through interviews and library research.
Research and write papers on project sustainability.

Sports Marketing Group, Cleveland, OH
Event Planner, June August 2006, June August 2007
Contacted potential advertisers, completed invoices, and maintained financial records. Attended events and networked
with sports marketing professionals.

SKILLS & ACTIVITIES
Advanced French (speaking, reading, writing, comprehension)
MS Office (Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Lived and traveled extensively in Africa and Europe for three years
International Relations Club, Asian Studies Association, DC Public School tutor

HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY

COMPOSING A COVER LETTER

Your Cover Letter complements your rsum. Employers use cover letters to determine your interest in the
position and company, as well as to assess your written communication skills.

Your Cover Letter should be clearly structured, and should answer the following questions:

# Who are you?
o Introduce yourself. State your major and year at Georgetown.

# Why are you writing?
o In the first few sentences, mention the specific job title, if known, and how you heard about
the opening. Be concise.

# Why are you interested in the position?
o Without getting too personal, relate something about the job to your own interests and/or
experiences to show the employer that you are motivated and will have a genuine interest in
working for the company.

# How are you qualified?
o Highlight skills and specific achievements that demonstrate why you are qualified for the
position, and use key terms from the ad or job description that are clearly relevant to your
background.

# What is your next step?
o In closing, you should request an interview, with a strong reminder as to why the employer
should meet with you. Also, consider adding a statement expressing that you will call (e.g.
within two weeks) to confirm that he/she has received your rsum and cover letter (if you
have their phone number and will follow up dont take this step if theyve requested that
you do not contact them).

Things to remember:

! Target the cover letter to a specific employer and job description.
! Address the letter to a specific individual. If no name was given in the job announcement, call the
organization to track down a name. If all else fails, use Dear Hiring Manager: or Dear Search
Committee:
! Be brief! An ideal cover letter will be three concise paragraphs and should only be one page. Make
sure every sentence says something meaningful about how you fit the position.
! Stick to three or four skills that you possess that are relevant to the position and mention concrete
examples that demonstrate those skills (and that are listed on your rsum).
! Match the font style and paper of your rsum to your cover letter. The consistent layout will make
your documents look more like a package.
! Proofread several times and ask friends to help!
! Keep a log of the applications you sent off including the date, the recipient, and when you said in
the letter you would call them to follow-up (if appropriate), and your follow-up conversation.




HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY

[Sample Cover Letter]
MADISON A. CRAWFORD

Georgetown University, Box 00001
Washington, DC 20057
(202) 123-4567
mac555@georgetown.edu


January 15, 2011

Chris Branin
Editor
The Washington Post
1150 15
th
Street NW
Washington, DC 20071

Dear Mr. Branin:

It was a pleasure to meet you at the Georgetown Career Fair last fall. As I mentioned during our
conversation, I was ecstatic to find the internship in Public Relations on the Washington Post website. I grew
up with The Washington Post delivered daily to my home in southern Maryland and have incorporated both
online and printed versions into my daily routine. Please find my rsum enclosed, which details my
qualifications for the position. I am confident that my research experience, strong writing ability, and
administrative skills will benefit the Post this summer.

As a legal intern for Calvert County States Attorney, I used a variety of databases to conduct and organize
legal research for our staff. I devised a new way to track legal developments that is still used in the office
today. My ability to sift through and condense large amounts of data will be an asset to your office. I also
have developed particularly strong writing skills during my time at Georgetown, having written several
policy analysis papers for my government courses. Outside the classroom, my position as writer and editor
for The Georgetown Times has allowed me to contribute weekly articles and help other staff members with
their pieces. I am eager to employ my research and writing skills in a public relations context, and believe
that my experience producing informative pieces and meeting deadlines will serve your office well.

My experience in professional settings has prepared me for the variety of administrative duties for which I
would be responsible as a PR Intern. I dealt with confidential case files in a States Attorneys Office, and
performed a variety of administrative and customer service tasks in many settings. I am confident that my
supervisors will attest to the quality of my work, my conscientiousness, and professional demeanor.

I will give you a call during the week of February 1 to confirm that you have received my application. If you
have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at (202) 123-4567 or mac555@georgetown.edu. I
look forward to talking further with you to discuss my qualifications.

With best regards,

Madison Crawford




HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY

WRITING SAMPLES

Some employers will ask you to submit samples of your writing as a part of your application. Writing
samples demonstrate your ability to analyze information and display your communication skills. Generally
speaking, you may be asked for a writing sample if you are applying to a position within a writing-intensive
field such as advertising, journalism, public relations, law, media, or research. Approach the writing sample
as an opportunity to show employers how well you can express yourself in writing.

Employers may specify the subject matter they wish your writing sample to address. If they do not, submit
something that would parallel the type of writing you would be expected to do within the position. For
example, if you are applying for a position within a public relations firm; something similar to a press release
might be most appropriate. If you are unsure about the appropriateness of your writing sample, visit the
Career Education Center to speak with our staff or contact the organization to ask a clarifying question.

When selecting a writing sample to submit, always consider the quality and content of your work. Even if
you have completed an assignment for a course, recheck your writing for style and substance to be sure that
it is the best possible representation of your writing.


Wri t i ng Sampl e Ti ps

Do not submit a writing sample unless it is specifically requested. If you are unsure, reach out to the
employer and ask.

Follow the application instructions. Most employers will specify how many pages in length they
expect the sample to be. If they do not specify, submit two to five pages of writing, double-spaced.
You may also use an excerpt from a longer document; simply mention at the top of the first page
that you are submitting only a selection from a longer document.

Submit only your own work. If you incorporate others work, cite your sources.

If you are planning to submit a paper, consider meeting with the professor for whom you wrote the
original paper for additional feedback and suggestions.

Present your writing samples in a professional manner. Clearly label each submission with an
appropriate title and origin (if necessary). If providing hard copies, use rsum paper or put them
into a presentation binder.

Be sure to redact any privileged or sensitive information.

Do not use anything too old; you want to make sure that you are giving employers a recent example
of the quality of your work.




HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
[Sample References]
MADISON A. CRAWFORD

Georgetown University, Box 00001
Washington, DC 20057
(202) 123-4567
mac555@georgetown.edu

REFERENCES:

Russell P. Barry, Ph.D.
Professor of History
Georgetown University
ICC 909
Washington, DC 20057
(202)111-1111
professorb@georgetown.edu

Ms. Ima Boss
Director of Public Affairs
Alliance for Justice
11 Dupont Circle
Washington, DC 20009
(202)222-2222
imaboss@internship.org

Mr. Tony Azzaro
Manager and Owner
Tonys Cafe
501 Main Street
Evanston, IL 60000
(630)222-2222
tony@tonyscafe.com


















HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
ACTION VERBS

Most Useful*
Activated
Adapted
Advertised
Advised
Advocated
Aided
Arranged
Assembled
Assessed
Bolstered
Briefed
Built
Cared
Chaired
Charged
Charted
Clarified
Coached
Completed
Composed
Concluded
Conducted
Consolidated
Consulted
Continued
Coordinated
Corrected
Correlated
Dealt
Debated
Edited
Educated
Eliminated
Encouraged
Enlisted
Established
Evaluated
Executed
Exercised
Expanded
Expedited
Explained
Facilitated
Fixed
Fostered
Generated
Guided
Handled
Helped
Implemented
Improved
Indexed
Influenced
Inspected
Inspired
Integrated
Interpreted
Interviewed
Inventoried
Investigated
Lectured
Led
Listened
Located
Maintained
Mapped
Marketed
Met (deadlines)
Modified
Monitored
Motivated
Navigated
Negotiated
Observed
Obtained
Ordered
Organized
Perceived
Performed
Persuaded
Planned
Prepared
Preserved
Prioritized
Produced
Programmed
Promoted
Protected
Provided
Purchased
Ranked
Read
Recommended
Recorded
Reduced
Regulated
Reinforced
Related
Represented
Resolved
Responded
Restored
Revamped
Reviewed
Scheduled
Screened
Served
Set
Simplified
Solved
Spoke
Stimulated
Streamlined
Strengthened
Substituted
Summarized
Supported
Sustained
Synthesized
Tabulated
Taught
Trained
Visualized

Analyzed
Abstracted
Anticipated
Ascertained
Audited
Calculated
Compared
Computed
Conceptualized
Critiqued
Defined
Detected
Determined
Diagnosed
Discriminated
Dissected
Estimated
Examined
Figured
Graded
Judged
Predicted
Projected
Qualified
Reasoned
Researched
Scanned
Studied
Surveyed
Symbolized
Verified

Assisted
Brought
Collaborated
Contributed
Cooperated
Ensured
Participated
Referred

Communicated
Addressed
Answered
Corresponded
Expressed
Presented
Printed
Publicized
Quoted
Reported
Rewrote
Wrote
Counseled
Instructed/
Learned
Applied
Comforted
Communicated
Demonstrated
Emphasized
Enabled
Enlightened
Familiarized
Informed
Manipulated
Prescribed
Reflected
Saved
Shared
Tutored
Validated

Created /
Developed
Acted
Authored
Conceived
Constructed
Designed
Devised
Discovered
Drafted
Experimented
Fashioned
Financed
Formulated
Founded
Increased
Initiated
Innovated
Instituted
Introduced
Invented
Launched
Modeled
Originated
Pioneered
Proposed
Refined
Shaped
Styled

Improved/
Increased
Accomplished
Achieved
Acquired
Advanced
Allowed
Assured
Attained
Conserved
Enlarged
Guaranteed
Mastered
Maximized
Minimized
Overcame
Perfected
Upgraded

Negotiated
Arbitrated
Bargained
Closed
Lobbied
Mediated
Merged
Reconciled

Operated/
Repaired/
Maintained
Adjusted
Changed
Installed
Piloted
Ran
Replaced
Serviced
Transported
Upheld
Utilized

Organized
Accumulated
Balanced
Budgeted
Cataloged
Classified
Collated
Collected
Compiled
Copied
Detailed
Developed
Displayed
Filed
Gathered
Graphed
Kept
Methodized
Processed
Reproduced
Retrieved
Revised
Routinized
Structured
Systemized
Served
Assisted
Attended
Catered
Delivered
Dispensed
Entertained
Furnished
Procured
Satisfied
Supplied

Sold
Auctioned
Bartered
Bought
Raised
Recruited

Supervised/
Managed
Administered
Allocated
Approved
Assigned
Authorized
Confronted
Contracted
Controlled
Decided
Delegated
Directed
Dispatched
Distributed
Enforced
Fired
Followed (through)
Governed
Headed
Hired
Instructed
Mentored
Oversaw
Presided
Retained
Selected
Updated

* Most useful denotes verbs that could be classified into more than one category

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One oten-oerlooked way to learn about a career is the A9B45CD7A49DE A9735FA38. Contact someone who works in the ield
you're interested in and ask her what you want to know about her job. Inormational interiews don't hae to be purely
educational. \ou can also use them to make contacts and possibly uncoer job openings. Start with people you already
have connections with: friends, family, alumni, professors and internship or job supervisors. The Office of Advancements
'EGC9A &D5335 /37845H is a database o Georgetown alumni who hae olunteered to be sources o inormation or
other loyas.

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\rite an email o introduction. Indicate your interest in your contact's proession and organization and your desire to isit
and talk with her about it. State in the letter that you will ollow up with a call to make an appointment. 1his will alert the
oice o your call and sere as a preliminary introduction. \ou must take the initiatie.

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low did you choose this career ield
\hat types o experience are essential Is graduate school important or someone in this ield
\hat types o employment or internships would you recommend
\hat are entry-leel opportunities in this ield

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Describe a typical work week and a typical day.
\hat skills or talents are most essential or eectie job perormance
\hat are the toughest problems you must deal with \hat is the most rewarding part o your job

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\hat obligation does your work place on your personal time
low much lexibility do you hae in terms o dress, hours o work, acation time, place o residence

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low rapidly is your present career ield growing
I you work was suddenly eliminated, what dierent types o work do you think you could do

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low do people ind out about these jobs \hat speciic aspects o my background should I highlight or sell the
most
\hat organizations would you recommend I pursue Is there a certain person within this organization whom I
should contact irst May I use your name when I contact them

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\hat is the size and structure o the organization low would you deine the oice culture
\hat is the aerage length o time employees stay with the organization
\hat type o ormal or on-the-job training does the organization proide
\hat new product lines and,or serices are being deeloped
low does this organization compare,dier with it competitors

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lor which entry-leel positions would I be best suited \hat would be the appropriate way to pursue these
positions \ho is the person to whom I address my coer letter May I use your name when I contact them
\hat is a reasonable salary range or entry-leel positions

Ater the inormational interiew, send a thank you note immediately. L-mail and regular mail are both acceptable. Keep a
record o your interiews. Names, titles, addresses, dates, and topics o discussion will help you remember who told you
what, and how to get in touch with your contacts.

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1he purpose o an interiew is to personalize the content o your resume and coer letter with a conersation.
Interiewing allows both the hiring organization and the candidate to determine whether they it one another.

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1o prepare or the interiew, you need to deelop a strategy based on research o the organization and sel-
knowledge. During the interiew process you will be judged on how well you meet the ollowing criteria:
Are you capable o doing the job successully
Do you wholeheartedly want the job
Are you able to relate well to the interiewer and other sta
Do you present a proessional appearance and demeanor

Preparing or the interiew thereore requires that you assess your interests and skills, and research the
organization and the position or which you are interiewing.
Reiew the job description o the position or which you are interiewing.
Make a list o pertinent unctions o the job and the skills and experiences needed.
Make a list o your experiences and how you hae deeloped and strengthened your skills.

Doing this exercise will help you articulate your experiences to an interiewer. \ou also will hae a list o
examples ready to support your assertions.

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04 research the preerred dress at the oice you will be isiting. Many workplaces preer a
proessional dark business suit ,black, dark blue, grey,, but some oices may preer less traditional
dress. \hen in doubt, ask someone in the company or industry or suggestions.
04 use atershae, cologne or perume sparingly, i at all.
04 bring a briecase or portolio.
*4D39
04 wear conseratie jewelry ,small earrings, one ring not three, small necklace, etc.,.
04 wear stockings,pantyhose with a skirt.
04 wear conseratie makeup and nail polish.
04 keep hair away rom ace, i possible.
04 wear a knee-length skirt, no shorter. Pant suits also are appropriate.
Dont wear a low-cut blouse. Blouses need to be buttoned to the top or second-to-top button.
Dont wear open-toed shoes or shoes with heels higher than two inches.
E39
04 wear a conseratie tie ,this is not the time or Mickey Mouse,.
04 arrie clean-shaen.
04 wear polished shoes that match,complement the suit.
04 limit jewelry to a watch, ring and,or culinks.

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Like other presentations, an interiew has a beginning, middle and end. \hat happens during those stages
aries with the employer, nonetheless, the ollowing typical stages gie you an idea o what to expect.

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Remember that employers make an initial assessment when they greet you. \hen you meet an employer,
stand straight, proide a irm handshake, and begin with some small talk as you walk to the interiew room.

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As an interiew begins, both the employer and candidate are trying to establish rapport. An employer may
cite an item rom your resume or commence the interiew with an open-ended question such as, tell me a
little about yourself or why are you interested in my organization? Respond to the questions as though
he or she was asking, why do you want to be in this interview room? Employers want to know that you
are ocused.

During this time, also assess the employer. Is he or she relaxed or ormal, ocused or conersational. \ou
may want to adapt your strategy to the style o the interiewer, but always remember to be proessional.


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The question tell me about yourself is often the first question asked. What are employers looking or in
this question

1his and other open ended questions are asked to see how well you can ocus your answers to the position
or which you are interiewing. Responses to this question should show how your skills, interests, and
experiences would contribute to the position and organization.

Use a 90 second guideline when answering this question.
locus the irst 15 seconds on any releant and appropriate personal inormation you wish to share
,e.g. where you are rom,
locus the next 30 seconds on your academic experience ,e.g. what you are studying, any study-
abroad experience,
locus the next 30 seconds on your proessional experience ,e.g. leadership actiities, internships,
Use the last 15 seconds to discuss why you are interested in the position ,gien the background you
just discussed,.

Remember, this is a short answer, gie highlights o your experiences and ocus your answer. Spend some
time writing down the experiences you wish to discuss and then practice how you want to answer the
question.




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Respond to Interviewers Questions
During the interiew, the employer will ask you a ariety o questions to determine interest and competence.
\hen answering the questions, make sure your answers are clear, concise, and ollowed by an example, and
that you maintain strong eye contact. Listed below are sample questions typically asked by employers.


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Describe your most rewarding college experience and tell me why it was so rewarding.
Relate your studies and,or experience to this job. \hat do you want out o your career
\hy are you interested in working or __________
\hy do you think you would like this type o work
\hat is your greatest strength \eakness
\hy did you choose your particular major
\hy did you choose to attend Georgetown

Do you make your opinions known when you disagree with the iews o your superisor low
\hy should I hire you
\hat qualiications do you hae that will make you successul in the ield
1ell me about a time where you showed initiatie
As described to you, what about this position appeals to you

Gie me an example o a time when you dealt with pressure.
\hat is one lesson you hae learned rom a preious job
\hat personal characteristics are necessary or jobs in this ield
\hat is the most diicult situation you hae aced
In what ways has college prepared you to take on greater responsibility

Describe a difficult problem youve had to deal with.
1ell me about a time where you soled a diicult problem.
1ell me about a time where persuaded a group to do something they were opposed to.
1ell me about a time that you had to organize and plan or a major project.
Do you preer working independently or on a team
\hat is your biggest accomplishment
\hat would you like to be doing ie years rom now Do you plan to attend graduate school
\hy do you think you would be successul in this ield

\hat hae you gotten out o your extracurricular actiities
low do you manage stress
1ell me about a time that you had to handle criticism.
Describe the relationship that should exist between a superisor and subordinates.
\hat qualities should a successul manager possess





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As the interiew winds down, the employer will ask whether or not you hae any questions. It is imperatie
that you ask approximately three or our questions. It is an opportunity or you to demonstrate your career
ocus and it is how employers assess the depth o your interest in and knowledge o their organization. Most
employers will not consider a candidate urther i he or she does not ask questions. Prepare your questions
beore the interiew. 1he ollowing are some typical questions you may want to ask:

\hat are you looking or in an ideal candidate
What are the organizations five- and ten-year goals
\hy are you looking to ill this position
How does this department fit into the organizations structure?
Outside my department, who else will I work with
low did you choose this organization
\hat are the things you like most,least about working here
Describe your career path within this organization.
\hat is the rate o personnel turnoer
What has been the most exciting experience youve had while working here?
\hat is your superisory style ,Only ask i you are interiewing with your potential boss.,

&49BCA?J49
As the interiew concludes, the employer should tell you how the selection process will continue rom this
point. I that does not occur, take the initiatie to ind out. Many employers will also request reerences or
writing samples, so you should hae those ready. Lastly, ask or a business card and conclude the interiew
with a irm handshake, a statement reairming your interest in the position and thanking the employer or
his or her time.

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As soon ater the interiew as possible, you should send a thank you note to the interiewer. In the note,
reinorce your interest in the position. 1ake the opportunity to highlight a positie rom the interiew or
clariy something that did not go as well as planned.

Keep the ollowing in mind when writing your thank you note:
Keep it to one page.
It can be handwritten, typed or emailed, depending on the organizations environment.
\ou may write to all the people with whom you interiewed or identiy the decision-maker and write
to him or her, in the letter thank eeryone with whom you interiewed.

>J5?7%<B5339J96 :9735QJ38

1ypically 1,2-1 hour in length.
Purpose is to determine quickly i there is a match between employer and candidate.
\eeds out inappropriate candidates.

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Sometimes all day at the oice o the employer.
Candidate will meet a ariety o indiiduals, including potential superisor and co-workers.
Candidate is ealuated during meals, tours and departure.
Lmployer may be paying or lodging and transportation.
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E4BS :9735QJ38 G9P :9735QJ38<753GD
The best way to prepare for an interview is to practice. The Career Centers Mock Interview Program is a
good way to do this. Sign up at the ront desk or a short interiew with a sta member or employer. \e
recommend that you come dressed as i you were attending a real interiew. 1he sta member or employer
will acilitate the mock interiew and then reiew your responses.

\ou can also practice on your own using InteriewStream: http:,,georgetown.interiewstream.com,
\ou can use your own webcam or we hae a station set up in the Career Lducation Center or your use.

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Seeral industries, particularly management consulting, use case style interiewing in their assessment o
candidates. This style focuses on a candidates analytical and problem-soling abilities. Problems or cases are
gien to the candidate and he,she must work through the case out loud with the interiewer. Lmployers will
be assessing how a candidate arrives at an answer, not whether the answer is correct.

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1his style o interiewing is gaining wide acceptance among recruiters. It is based on the premise that the best
way to predict uture behaior is to examine past behaior. 1o respond to a behaioral interiew question, or
instance, Tell me about a time when you were on a team and one of the members wasnt carrying his or her
weight, use the STAR technique.

< <J7AG7J49 45 7G?S$ Describe a situation or task which will allow you to illustrate your strengths.

" Example: I was assigned to lead a team to perorm 30 hours o community serice
for a class. One team member wasnt showing up for meetings, despite constant reminders of
the importance of attendance.

' 'B7J49$ Describe the speciic action you took to remedy the situation.

Example: I decided to meet with the student in private and explained the frustration of other
team members, then asked him i there was anything I could do to help. le said he was
preoccupied with another course, so I found him some help with that course.

( (3?AC7$ Lxplain the result o your action. Make sure the outcome relects positiely on you.

Example: After I found that student help, he not only was able to attend the meetings, he also
was grateul to me or helping him. \e were able to complete the community serice project on
time.

I you are interested in learning more about these styles o interiewing, pick up a handout in the Career
Center library, attend a workshop on this topic, or make an appointment with a sta member.


HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
GRADUATE SCHOOL GUIDE

For many students, graduate school is a logical next step towards achieving their career goals. However,
it can be a daunting task to figure out the right time to go, find the best programs, and prepare successful
applications. By breaking the process down into steps, however, it becomes something much more
manageable.

Step One: Answering why and when

Graduate school is a large commitment in terms of time and money. Its important to be sure that youre
applying for the right reasons. Make sure that the program to which you are applying will help you
fulfill your long term goals. Talk to people in the field that interests you to find out about their
educational background and what their recommendations are for graduate study. Ask yourself:

! Is my interest in this field strong enough that Im ready to make a commitment to it?
! What degree do I need to achieve my long-term goals?
! Will I stay motivated as a student for the next two to seven years (program length)?
! Can I succeed in graduate school?
! Are there other options that seem equally or more appealing as I come out of school?
! Am I prepared to live on savings, student loans, and/or stipends (if planning on full-time
graduate work)?

Step Two: Finding programs

In some cases, similar programs vary in coursework and degrees conferred. For example, there may be
slight differences in public policy programs versus public administration programs. Likewise, a degree
in counseling may not necessarily be found in the psychology department; it may fall within the realm of
education instead. Be sure that youre applying to programs that fit into your long-term goals, and be
aware of each programs particular niche to be sure that your philosophy aligns with theirs.

Start by talking with professors and with people in the position you one day hope to hold. (This is a
great time to use the Alumni Career Network: http://alumni.georgetown.edu.) What degree did they
earn? Do they have any insight on particular programs? From there, investigate on your own by:

! Looking at professional organizations, which often have information for students interested in
the field.
! Checking out grad school reference books, which are often tailored to certain types of programs.
! Learning about program accreditation for the field that may affect job prospects after graduation.
! Familiarizing yourself with research in your field of interest through academic journals
! Reading graduate school rankings, such as those published by the US News and World Report.
They can give you an idea of a schools status but dont forget to look at the individual
program, and not just the university as a whole.
! Researching faculty bios and current graduate student profiles on university webs sites.

HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
As you look at programs, its also crucial to take into account your personal preferences and style. After
all, even if a program is ranked #1, it may not focus on your area of interest or be in a place where youd
like to spend a few years. You may want to consider factors such as:

Location
Cost (and funding options)
Faculty research interests
Philosophy of the program
Experiential opportunities
Campus facilities (libraries, gym, etc.)
Program requirements
Amount of student-faculty interaction
Length of program
Size of program
Academic support
Multicultural/diversity opportunities


Step Three: Applying

Once youve identified the schools to which youd like to apply, it is important to fully understand the
procedure for gaining admission into the programs. Generally, it is better to apply early. Some graduate
programs will review applications as they are received, in which case applying early may increase your
chances of admission. Keep in mind that deadlines and application instructions are non-negotiable.
Applications received after the date they are due may well be disregarded, and personal statements
and/or writing samples that do not adhere to guidelines may similarly be rejected.

Keep in mind that some schools will require you to submit an application to both the program and to the
school. It is likely that the following materials may play a part in your graduate school application:

! Transcript: Carefully check program requirements, and talk to the school directly if you have
questions about prerequisites.
! GPA: Although it usually is given as a guideline, knowing the mean GPA of previously admitted
classes can give you an idea of your chances of admission.
! Graduate tests (GRE, GMAT, MCAT, etc.): Be sure youre clear on program requirements well in
advance so that you have time to prepare for, and take, the necessary tests for admission.
! References: Programs may require two or three recommendations. Decide early who you would
like to ask, offer to meet with them to review your qualifications and goals, and follow up.
! Personal statement: Many programs use a personal statement as a way of gauging your interest,
background, skills, and long-term goals. It often takes the place of an interview, so take care
when considering how best to present yourself, and as always proofread for mistakes.
! Writing samples: Read the guidelines to find the parameters for different schools. Generally, you
want to supply the program with a relevant piece of writing that showcases your strengths.

As mentioned above, it is common for schools to require some sort of admission test. You can often
prepare for each of these through the test website, practice books, or even a course (commonly offered
through The Princeton Review, Kaplan, and similar organizations). The most common include:

! The GRE which is a general admissions test. It is computer-based and is given at centers
worldwide; youll need to make an appointment at www.gre.org.
! The GMAT is taken as part of admissions requirements for MBA programs. Learn more at
www.gmac.com.
! The MCAT (www.aamc.org) is a part of the admissions procedure for medical school. Subject
areas include verbal reasoning, physical sciences, writing, and biological sciences.
! The LSAT is required for most law schools. Learn more at www.lsac.org or consider making an
appointment with the Career Education Centers pre-law advisor.
HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY

You will also want to spend a fair amount of time considering your personal statement, which is
standard for most grad school applications. Keep the following in mind:

! Some programs may ask for a personal statement, statement of purpose, or a more specific essay
question. Read the prompt carefully and be sure that you are addressing each school specifically.
! Keep to the prescribed length, making sure that your thoughts are organized and clear. Be honest.
! Use industry-specific language if appropriate, and if you know exactly how to use it correctly.
! Incorporate research from academic journals you have read, if appropriate, and your examination
of the program professors research interests. This is a good way to tie in any preemptive
dialogue you have had with professors in the program.
! Tailor your essay to the particular program to which you are applying. Why are you interested in
the program? What makes it unique? What can you offer to the program?
! Demonstrate your interest and passion for the subject matter by providing examples of how your
background has prepared you for this graduate program. What do you hope to accomplish in the
program and after graduation?
! Proofread your essay and have other people read it. If possible, ask for feedback from someone
in your area of interest.

Step Four: Following Up and Making a Decision

After youve submitted your application, there are a few final steps towards making your goal of
admission a reality:

! Contact the program coordinator to ensure that all your application materials including
recommendations, which may have been sent separately have been received.
! If appropriate, research and contact faculty with thoughtful questions. Faculty are often involved
in the process of admissions, especially for Ph.D. programs, when they may be looking for
research and teaching assistants.
! If you are placed on a waiting list, call to inquire about any additional steps you can take to
strengthen your application, and express your continued interest in the program.

Finally, youve been accepted! Now its time to make a decision. Consider some of the original reasons
why you applied to each school, and see how they measure up to one another. Take into account the
additional information you may have learned through the process, whether its about financial aid, the
surrounding community, or the programs philosophy. Talk it over with the people in your life and at the
Career Education Center, if needed. More than anything, though, keep in mind that this is your
education, and that you ultimately know what is best for you.

For further information, consider the following resources:

! The Career Education Center, professors, and your personal network
! Guides to schools, such as www.gradschools.com, www.petersons.com, and www.usnews.com
! Testing resources, including www.kaplan.com, www.princetonreview.com, and
www.gradview.com
! Financial aid resources, such as www.fafsa.ed.gov, www.fastweb.com, http://finaid.org, and
http://studentaid.ed.gov


HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
ALUMNI PROGRAMS AND SERVICES


The Career Education Center provides a number of services for Georgetown University alumni. Alumni who received degrees from the
following Georgetown University schools are eligible for services:

Georgetown College
McDonough School of Business (undergraduate program)
School of Nursing and Health Studies (undergraduate and some graduate programs)
Walsh School of Foreign Service (undergraduate program)
School of Continuing Studies (degree-seeking bachelors, masters, and doctoral programs)

All eligible alumni may utilize the following services:

! Browse the on-line Hoya Career Connection (HCC) system for job listings and submit your resume and
cover letter directly to the employer. To obtain access to HCC, send your name, graduation month and year,
Georgetown University school (e.g., SFS), and academic major to: recruitingstudent@georgetown.edu.

! Access a variety of Career Links through Alumni Career Services at http://alumni.georgetown.edu.

! Participate in one employment advising appointment or pre-law advising appointment (in-person, phone,
or email) with a member of our professional staff for career direction and/or referral.

! Participate in one 15-minute walk-in appointment per semester to meet with a professional staff member to
discuss Career Center resources, have your vita reviewed, or plan a job search.

! Enhance your interviewing skills using InterviewStream.

! Attend any of our career workshops. Workshops are designed to provide help for every step of your career
search. Topics include: Writing Resumes & Cover Letters, How to Find a Job or Internship, Tips for
Successful Interviewing, and more.

! Participate in Industry Weeks, a series of programs designed to expand knowledge of diverse career paths.
Professionals visit the campus to talk about specific career fields. Speakers share their experiences and offer
information and inside tips on how to research, identify, and secure both internship and full-time job
opportunities. Industry Weeks represent a variety of career fields including government, science, health care,
non-profit, education, public relations, marketing and advertising.

! Attend our on-campus Career Fair in the fall, where recruiters from around the nation come to meet with
Georgetown students to discuss employment and internship opportunities. Visit
http://www3.georgetown.edu/career_center/jobs/ for more information. Students are encouraged to pre-
register online.

! Attend our spring Government & Non-Profit Expo, one of the years most prominent events of its kind.
The Expo brings professionals from a variety of government and non-profit agencies to campus to talk with
students about career options. Visit http://www3.georgetown.edu/career_center/jobs/ to register.


(over)

HTTP://CAREERWEB.GEORGETOWN.EDU Georgetown
UNIVERSITY
! Utilize the Career Centers Career Library and Computer Resources. Our library houses books,
periodicals, and other materials to assist students with career exploration, career decision making, self-
marketing, and employer research. We also have a special section dedicated to resources for graduate
students. The Career Center contains computers designated specifically for career-related activities. Internet
access is available to research employers and search for jobs. Word processing and printing capabilities are
also available to create cover letters and resumes.

! Utilize networking contacts through the Hoyasonline Alumni Career Network, accessible from the Alumni
Association website at http://alumni.georgetown.edu.

! Access our career counseling referral guide. This guide may be obtained by visiting the reception desk of the
Career Center.


Eligible alumni who graduated since May 2008 have access to the services listed above, plus:

! Schedule up to three 50-minute career counseling sessions per academic year. During these sessions, you
may explore your career goals, devise a job search strategy, practice interview techniques, have your resume
reviewed, or address other career-related concerns. Counseling appointments are scheduled based on
availability.

! Schedule up to three 30-minute employment advising sessions per academic year. Employment advisors
specialize in specific industries and will assist you with conducting a job search in a particular career field.
Employment advising appointments are scheduled based on availability.

! Attend up to three pre-law advising consultations with our pre-law advisor.

! Participate in our mock interview program to develop your interview skills. This program consists of a
taped mock interview and review facilitated by a member of our professional staff.

For more information about these programs, contact us at 202-687-3493
GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
CAREER EDUCATION CENTER
2011