Pilot MAP: Enhance | University of Portland

Pilot MAP: Enhance

"The Career Center staff is great at listening and understanding where the individual is coming from. They address issues with a straight forward 'here's what you should do and how you should do it' approach in a respectful and meaningful way. I also loved that they introduced me to resources such as College Central Network and how to navigate Linked In, especially to connect with other UP alumni to set up informational interviews. I also thought the talk on how students 'traditionally' view job searches was extremely eye-opening and helpful." - senior biology major

Did You Know?

  • The average job search takes 6-9 months.
  • Many graduate school applications are due during the fall semester.

Research & Discernment:

  • Meet with a Career Center professional in the fall semester to create an action plan for your final year
  • Continue to learn about the hidden job market by conducting at least 12 Informational Interviews 
  • Be strategic in assessing your current relationships and identify new contacts using the Networking Relationship Action Plan
  • Learn about Interviewing & Job Offers - come to the Career Center to gather information on realistic salary expectations
  • Start researching organizations and companies - develop a list of 5-10 organizations with which you would like to work or volunteer
  • Keep track of your progress using the Target Employer & Application Sheet

Tell Your Story:

  • Refine your Interviewing skills in a mock interview with a Career Center staff member
  • Continue to talk to family, friends, and faculty members about your Job Search 
  • Attend Career Fairs and other Career Center events
  • Get good at starting a conversation and being able to answer, "What are a few areas you're considering after graduation?"

Get Involved:

  • If considering graduate school, keep track of entrance requirements and application deadlines
  • Attend meeting of local Professional Associations to meet potential employers and contacts 
  • Review the Career Center calendar for relevant Career Center, campus and off-campus events
  • Apply to career opportunities that meet your skills, interests and values 
  • Follow up on all applications and keep a record of the status of each using the Target Employer & Application Sheet
  • Monitor UP's Handshake on a weekly basis for opportunities