{"id":7306,"date":"2020-06-05T16:46:46","date_gmt":"2020-06-05T20:46:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/?p=7306"},"modified":"2024-12-17T17:10:48","modified_gmt":"2024-12-17T22:10:48","slug":"go-to-graduation-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/go-to-graduation-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"The Goodwin Go-To Graduation Checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Goodwin Go-to Graduation Checklist:
\n<\/strong>From commencement to career-ready, tips to take control of your <\/em>calling<\/em><\/p>\n

This article was written in collaboration with Goodwin University\u2019s Career Services team.<\/em><\/strong><\/h5>\n

Graduating from an educational institution marks new endeavors and endless possibilities. It\u2019s a time to celebrate accomplishments, glory in accolades, and praise hard-earned academic achievements. Commencement is a time to spend with family and friends, and for first-generation graduates<\/a>, it\u2019s a time to take a step back and recognize the academic actions taken to push your family forward.<\/p>\n

Uncertainty of the unknown <\/strong><\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re from a long line of college graduates, or you\u2019re the first one in your lineage to embark on higher education, it\u2019s possible there\u00a0still<\/em>\u00a0may be that uneasy feeling in the pit of your stomach about your professional future.<\/p>\n

With classes no longer in session and scheduled study times coming to a screeching halt, the focus on your projected path may go from something to deal with off in the distance, to something that shows up on your doorstep sooner than expected.<\/p>\n

Time and tenacity do not<\/u> stand still, and neither should you. <\/strong><\/p>\n

The root of the word \u201cgraduate\u201d comes from the Latin word \u201cgradus,\u201d meaning \u201ca step climbed\u201d or, \u201ca step toward something.\u201d Below, are a few key pointers to keep in mind for your future steps toward professional success.<\/p>\n

Reach within to recognize your worth\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Although not always linear, many lifelong learners come to find that\u00a0career progression\u00a0may include the initial motions of finding a\u00a0job, then moving up, and maintaining a\u00a0career. Taking such steps can ultimately lead to uncovering\u00a0your calling and professional purpose.<\/p>\n

\u2610 As you move through this process, it is essential to\u00a0know your value proposition<\/strong>\u00a0and the exact talents you bring to the table.<\/p>\n

Are you wondering how to identify your importance?\u00a0Try some self-reflection.\u00a0Ponder over your previous experiences, your passions, and what makes you unique. If you want to dig a bit deeper, try a Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator or Enneagram Personality Test to see which of your wonderful qualities exemplify excellence. Be sure to keep in mind that\u00a0the more you know, the further you can go.<\/p>\n

Alter and adjust as needed<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2610 Once you have pinpointed your professional positives, it\u2019s time to\u00a0transfer your education, experience, and enthusiasm to your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and cover letter<\/strong>. When writing or editing your occupational outlines, remember to\u00a0alter your cover letter and r\u00e9sum\u00e9 per job application.<\/p>\n

Are you questioning how to make this happen? Print the job post and highlight the keywords and qualities in the listing that stand out. Does the employer mention words or phrases like \u201cgreat communication skills\u201d more than once? Do they list the essential skills (sometimes referred to as soft skills) needed for the position? Do the job duties fall right in line with your previous roles?\u00a0After you\u2019ve marked up the job opening,\u00a0add or substitute the same or similar words, phrases, and responsibilities into your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and cover letter.\u00a0Keep in mind that the new words should fit seamlessly as if they were there all along, and that cover letters should typically be one page in length.<\/p>\n

Striking syntax that sticks<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2610 As a foundation for future success,\u00a0touch up the transferable skills on your r\u00e9sum\u00e9<\/strong>\u00a0for each prior position held. Instead of using commonly coined terms like \u201cteam-player,\u201d add an element of individuality that will pull-in prospective employers. This will leave the hiring manager curious about you as an applicant and can prompt them to contact you for the next phase in the interview process.<\/p>\n

Examples of modern, memorable essential skills include:<\/p>\n