Better ways to prepare for college

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1. Career planning from the outset.

   Early exposure to career planning is important because it will help you familiarize with people who work in the career you are interested and this can be helpful in the years to come. Not only can these people help you find learning or job opportunities, but they’ll also be able to expose you to different career options you might have never considered otherwise.

2. Acquiring work experience.

   By taking on an apprenticeship or internship or job related to your career interests. This will help you gain practical experience, possibly earning course credits, and adding new skills. When looking to hire recent graduates, relevant job experience is actually one of the top things a manager looks for.

3. Using online resources and tools.

   Depending on what area of business you’re studying, you may be able to utilize some online tools and resources to familiarize yourself with industry terminology, programs, and more. Any type of tool or software you can get your hands on will help you add to your existing skill set and become better prepared.

4. Networking with peers and faculty.

   Making a habit of networking with university or college professors and other members of the faculty will give you the connections that can lead to possible career opportunities after graduation. For example it would benefit you to study up on your professors and learn about their backgrounds. In most cases, your business professors have years of on-the-job experience and can provide additional insights outside the classroom.

5. Taking skills assessment tests.

   The problem for many graduates is they don’t know what they’re good at. Most people have a pretty decent idea of their weaknesses, but honing in on strengths can be more challenging. A skills assessment test can be a good way to uncover hidden opportunities and direct you towards a specific college career pathway.

6. Using school-business partnerships.

   Most organizational and business schools facilitate partnerships and relationships with local businesses. These often result in job opportunities among other benefits. You need to ask your career services office about potential partnerships the college you want to join has and whether there is any way you can get accepted.