Job Search Assistance

Start looking for jobs during the summer before classes begin in the fall. Fall positions are posted to the website beginning approximately the third week of June. Jobs continue to be posted throughout the entire year. A student should not give up right away, it may be necessary to apply for several positions prior to getting hired.

All job vacancies are posted for a minimum of three days. The job postings will change frequently, so it is important to check the website often to see if new positions are available.

There are generally more students then positions available but with approximately 1200 student employment positions on campus, a determined student will be able to find employment. It is important in the job search to apply for all of the jobs a student feels qualified for and is interested in. It may be necessary to accept a less desirable position just to get the experience in order to advance to a more desirable position. Any position at Northwest will allow a student to gain work experience and earn some extra money.

Take the time to network and get familiar with job opportunities and the various hiring departments.  Introduce yourself to potential supervisors, if you are familiar with the supervisor of the position, and express your interest in potential opportunities.

If an applicant is called for an interview it is important to dress professionally and appropriately. First impressions are important. Although a student employee may be allowed, in specific departments to wear jeans and a t-shirt to work once hired, it is important for a first impression to wear business attire for an interview.

Although most positions do not require a résumé, it is a valuable tool for an applicant and employer. Résumés show an employer more then just work experience. It is representative of the applicant. The Career Services Office can provide assistance in developing and reviewing resumes. A student can schedule an appointment for résumé assistance by contacting Career Services at 562-1250 or Administration Building 130.

If a student has not been contacted within 14 to 21 days of submitting an application, it is appropriate to follow up by calling the supervisor and inquiring on the status of the position vacancy.

If you do not get the first job you apply for do not give up. Some students will apply for several positions before they are hired. Apply for more than one position at a time. It is not necessary to wait to see if you are hired for one position before applying for another. In fact if offered more than one interview, it allows a student an opportunity to be more selective.