Whether you are looking for a part-time local opportunity, or a full-time job related to your degree, the Career Resource Center has multiple resources to help you throughout your journey.

Job search is a process that can take shape in any number of ways. While at times it may take little time to land an opportunity, other times it may take much longer. Regardless, the steps are often similar; preparing your employment documents, utilizing online search tools, maximizing your network, preparing for the interview, and successfully navigating the world of work on an ongoing basis.

One key piece to not forget is balance. Stay focused, yet balanced as you work through your job search. Find time to do the things that you enjoy while using targeted energy for open positions and networking. Be flexible and remember that it only takes one employer to see your value.

Handshake is our campus-wide student career system: find on and off campus jobs, connect with employers, find recruiting events, find alumni and more.

View the Handshake Walk-Through Video

A resume is your opportunity to quickly convey your value, knowledge, skills, and accomplishments to an employer in a targeted way that speaks directly to the needs of the open position. 

  • Review our Resume Guide to get tips on how to start your first resume.
  • Utilize the Resume Builder in Career Coach to work with an easy-to-use resume template, especially if you are drafting your resume for the first time.
  • Download this helpful list of Action Verbs to make your resume stand out.
  • Review our Cover Letter Guide to draft a document that will help convey why you are a good fit for your targeted role and/or company.

While interviewing can be daunting at first, with a little practice, you can ace your next interview! Check out the resources below, which can help you prepare to articulate your value to any employer.

The most successful job search includes a variety of proactive, strategic, and organized action across a variety of areas. There is no "one-size fits all" approach. We are here to help. Call us at (949) 582-4575 to schedule an appointment. Here are a few tips to get you started:

  • Identify your career interests, work values, and specific job goals. Schedule an appointment by calling us at (949) 582-4575 to explore career options.
  • Develop a plan of action including dedicated time each day to focus on your job search.
  • Create a resume and tailor it to the jobs you are targeting. Practice interviewing to develop your skills and create an account in Big Interview using your campus email to learn, practice virtually, and get A.I. feedback.
  • Do your research and use a variety of established and industry-recognized job boards. Be sure to log-in and activate your Handshake account, our campus-wide career management system that includes internships, part-time and full-time jobs, recruiting events, networking opportunities, and many other resources.
  • Attend recruiting events and create connections, and learn about opportunities directly from hiring professionals. You can attend On-Campus Recruitment opportunities on campus, or check the events posted in Handshake.
  • Engage in targeted networking by sharing about yourself and your talents. Use Handshake and LinkedIn to find peers, professionals, and alumni to build your network.

You will engage in networking and build relationships with professionals throughout the course of your career. Make sure to meet professionals and maintain a contact list that will assist you in your future job search endeavors.

  • Craft a 30-Second Introduction to practice pitching yourself to professionals, no matter what context you may make connections.
  • Once you’ve made a connection, ask professionals to have a Career Conversation, in which you can learn more about their career path and ask questions to learn more about their industry, company, or role.
  • Finally, sign up to participate in our various workshops and events, which includes many topics for learning how to network effectively!
     

The Work Experience Education (WEE) program (formerly Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) helps students achieve their educational and career goals through for-credit internships and jobs, both paid and unpaid. These work experiences must include training of new or enhanced skills and must be related to a specific program. WEE units are often transferable, but be sure to check with your counselor for details. For more information, call (949) 582-4773.

Every academic program handles CWE differently. You can contact your program or department Chair with any questions.

  • Log-in and activate your Handshake account, our campus-wide career management system to find internships in your area of interest.

At Saddleback College, we bridge the gap between academics and industry to prepare you for real-world success. Our Work-Based Experiential Learning (WBEL) program offers the opportunity to gain practical experience, enhance your skills, and work with top employers while advancing your education.

Why Do WBEL and Internships Matter? 

View the Why Work-Based Learning Experiences and Internships Matter Video

As part of our commitment, Saddleback College offers paid opportunities for interns to gain experience. Why intern?

  • Hands-on experience will help to prepare for the workforce through impactful projects, mentorship, and training. 
  • Develop networks with professionals and organizations committed to shaping future talent.
  • Bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving skills to meaningful projects, while developing competencies employers value.
  • Experiential learners earn about $15k more annually, even after adjusting for industry differences!

Ready to jumpstart your career?

Schedule an appointment to discuss your internship search by calling us at (949) 582-4575. Visit the Saddleback College Economic and Workforce Development page to learn more about how we partner with employers.