December 2015

Hello grads!

In celebration of the upcoming winter break, we've decided to make this issue a bit lighter than usual while still providing you with a few things to mull over in the coming weeks. As you take a mental vacation from coursework and research, we encourage you to consider some ways to use your graduate experience to its fullest potential. Many of us take on work outside the standard load of teaching, coursework, etc. and, while we might simply think of these experiences as a way to pay the bills, the University offers myriad opportunities to build your resume and work toward your future career while still reeling in some cash. To that end, we've selected two articles that provide a useful context and some practical advice for steps you might take right now to boost your resume and become a more appealing candidate for both academic and non-academic positions. Below, you'll also find one such opportunity in the form of a job opening. . . Future 411 needs a new editor and we are currently accepting applications! We hope you enjoy this month's edition and we wish you a relaxing and enjoyable winter break!

See you next semester,

Trish & Alaina

Future 411 is Hiring!

Before moving on to this month's expert advice, I'd like to draw your attention to an exciting opportunity to build your resume by earning extra cash! I will be graduating this spring, so Career Services is seeking a new editor for Future 411, starting next semester. I've had a wonderful time working on this publication and have benefited enormously from the support and resources that the Career Services team has provided over the past year. This position is perfect for any self-motivated student with a knack for writing and editing who is interested in the issues facing today's graduate students. Plus, the flexible hours make this an ideal position for a hectic schedule.

The deadline for applications is December 18, click here to read the job posting and apply!

The Chronicle of Higher-Education

"The Alt-Ac Job Search: A Case Study"

Article by Leonard Cassuto

In this piece, Cassuto lays out the story of how a doctoral candidate, Patricia Gael, and her faculty advisor, Robert D. Hume, put together a plan for graduate study that prepared Gael for both academic and non-academic work. Their collaborative effort allowed Gael to shape an impressive resume while continuing to build her academic qualifications. Cassuto's article provides a valuable way to think about the unique opportunities and work experiences that graduate study affords and to consider how those varied opportunities might add up to an impressive resume. Although it's easy to fall into a well-worn pattern of coursework, service, and teaching, there are a plethora of positions at any university that can broaden your skill set and widen your horizons for future employment. And if you're thinking that advisors with Hume's particular mindset and dedication aren't exactly the norm, remember that the counselors at Career Services are here to help you shape a plan for making the most of your time as a graduate student. Read the full article here!

The Chronicle Vitae

"DIY Careers: How to Get Paid for Your Art"

By Josh Boldt

In this article, which is part of his series on "DIY Careers," Josh Boldt offers some practical tips for managing the business side of your creative endeavors. Last week, Future 411 featured a piece from Katie Pryal that discussed the shift in mindset that comes with being what she calls a "freelance academic." Bolt's article approaches a similar topic from a different angle, taking on the practical elements of freelancing and entrepreneurship. His tips address the basic accounting and business skills you'll need to have if you decide to be your own boss. If you've ever thought about the possibility of using your skill-set for freelance work, check out the full article here.