Q: With Commencement taking place a month early and COVID affecting the job market in so many ways, what advice do you have for seniors who are feeling stressed, are still searching and/or interviewing, and who may not secure something by graduation?

A: First, congratulations! Take a moment – or hopefully several moments – to recognize your accomplishments. Not only did you graduate from a prestigious liberal arts college, but you did so during one of the most unpredictable, taxing times in our recent history. You (and the rest of the world) were challenged in unprecedented ways and despite this, you were able to keep your head down and continue with your studies. You should be proud of yourself. Now this isn’t to say that you aren’t worried or concerned about your future. Being stressed and anxious are all normal thoughts that any graduating senior has no matter the circumstances. Here are just a few pieces of advice for those still on the hunt for post-graduation plans.

My first piece of advice is to create a ‘non-negotiable’ list. What are the core components of your life that are absolutely necessary? Is there a city that you have your heart set on? Is there a field of work that you are truly passionate about? Is your mind focused on continuing your studies either through graduate school, medical school, or another program? Spend some time thinking about what YOU really want and be as detailed as you can about this list. Now that you have this list created, it’s time to do some research. Utilize all your resources at hand. Delve into LinkedIn and start searching for alumni or connections that are in the fields you are interested in. Create your Laurentian Connection profile (if you haven’t done so already) and start searching for alums in either the area you want to live or the field of work that you are interested in pursuing. And finally, reach out to the Center for Career Excellence for additional tools and resources.

Lastly, network, network, network! With all your resources at hand, it’s your turn to start the conversations via LinkedIn, the Laurentian Connection portal, or via email. Don’t be afraid or intimidated to reach out to someone that you don’t know personally. Start by introducing yourself and state why you are reaching out to them. Include any details that you think may be pertinent, such as that you are graduating in a few weeks and are seeking opportunities in this specific career path.

I hope these tips are helpful, but above all I hope that you continue to enjoy your final weeks as a St. Lawrence student and know that the Laurentian community has your back as you enter the world with your degree in hand.

– Mary Baucom ’13, Senior Marketing Manager, Healthline Media

St. Lawrence University Alumni Executive Council Member

Bachelor of Arts, English & Government