Today was a beautiful, warm, breezy summer day in Bloomington. My husband needed to make an essential trip to campus to pick up his recently updated laptop to continue to work from home. We all decided to join him to make a family trip out of it to include a walk with our three young boys.
As we walked through the empty arboretum, I felt the heaviness in yet another way of the tremendous effect that the coronavirus is having on the whole world. The arboretum should not be empty; it should be busy and bustling with excited students on their way to class or meeting up with friends and enjoying the calm that the summer months bring.
As we walked, I could almost feel all of the excitement of my final weeks on campus as a graduating student. I was blissful, full of hope, and oblivious to what was awaiting me after graduation. I graduated in the heart of the Great Recession of 2008, which lasted for 18 months and was the longest period of economic decline since World War ll.
I left Indiana University with a dream to work for a nonprofit organization planning events that raised funds for a cause I could believe in. My dream took time, patience and work, and I was able to achieve it, despite the recession.
To our newest IU alumni, I am sharing my story with you with the hopes to inspire you to not let the economic woes of today discourage you. Instead, pursue your dream armed with tried-and-true job search strategies!
To IUAA members and volunteers who are welcoming newly minted graduates into your communities, I am sharing my story with you to thank you for having each other’s backs and to show you just how important your IU connection is in your local communities.
- Tap into the power of the Indiana University network! My first step upon moving to Fort Wayne, Indiana, after graduation, was to build and activate my network. One of the first places I turned to was the Indiana University Alumni Association (IUAA). To my pleasant surprise, the IUAA had a Fort Wayne chapter. I started attending the meetings and connected with a few people right away. It was a great first step for developing connections, friendships, and getting settled in a new area.
- Pursue organizations rather than jobs. Next, I researched nonprofit organizations in the area and started volunteering with one I felt a connection. I was invited to help plan one of their biggest events of the year. It was a silent auction and I was tasked with reaching out to local businesses to gain donations to be auctioned. This helped me to start a list of local businesses that I could add to my target list of employers for my job search. Businesses that care about philanthropy and the community could all be possibilities for employment. The nonprofit organization that I was volunteering with did end up offering me an opportunity, which is exactly what I hoped would happen. Although they offered part-time when I needed full-time employment, the volunteer opportunity was a great resume builder for me.
- Be flexible – the path to a dream job is not always direct! While trying to break into a tough job market, I needed more help. I sent my resume to a temporary employment agency to find a position. Within 24 hours, I had an offer at a law firm. I know what you are thinking, that is not what I was looking for… However, what I saw was an opportunity to make more connections in the community! Lawyers are extremely philanthropic and most sit on nonprofit boards. This was an ideal way to increase my networking connections. I even shared the IU connection with several of my bosses. Within months of accepting the receptionist position, which allowed me to continue my job search, I found myself starting a new job as a Fundraising Coordinator at a nonprofit organization planning events, raising funds, and working with kids.
A few of my biggest takeaways to encourage you where you are right now:
Networking is key and your IU alumni network is a built-in place to start. IU alumni are everywhere and they are generous with their time and resources. Connect where you are to those who are already in your corner. Alternatively, be the person that others are looking to connect with!
Look for opportunities that allow flexibility and make sense as the next step. I needed the freedom to continue my job search. Volunteering and professional temporary work were key for my success.
The resources available to alumni at that time online were a big piece of the job search puzzle that helped me figure out how to market myself. The website has continued to evolve and the resources and ways to connect are stronger than ever. Continue to seek out assistance from your IU Alumni Association and your alma mater. You are not being cut off from resources and opportunities; IU has your back for a lifetime.
Here are a few action steps you can take today:
- Become a member of the IU Alumni Association. The most valuable benefit is one that cannot be quantified – connection. Many of you are already members, but please continue to share the opportunity with others! Get more information about becoming a member online.
- IUAA members can have access to the Virtual Alumni Network (a private social and professional networking space designed just for IU alumni still in its pilot phase.). In this current season, this is an optimal way to connect. I would encourage you to make a new connection with another IU alum today. We should always be seeking to expand our network and this is a great resource to do so.
- Reach out to the Career and Professional Development team. We are here to support you at any stage of career. Please email us at iuaacpd@indiana.edu to setup an appointment or learn more.