The University of St. Thomas

Frequently Asked Questions From Students

FAQs > Students

Frequently Asked Questions from Students

Links in the list below will take you to the relevant information located on this or a related page.

Services

I was wondering if I could set up an appointment or drop by the career center to have someone go over my resume?

If you need a quick resume critique/review you may wish to stop in during normal pop-in hours (no appointment necessary). For more in-depth resume help you may wish to schedule an appointment. Contact our office by calling (651) 962-6761 to check on availability.

Job/Internship Search

I was wondering when, in your opinion, would be an ideal time for me to start looking for internship opportunities for the summer?

On the one hand, it's never too early to get a good head start.

On the other hand, many employers do not really know what their staffing requirements will be until they are ready to hire for something that they want to start ASAP.

So, between now and next summer, it's a good idea to develop your network, make contacts and gather information. Let people know what you are interested in doing, and stay in touch with them over the months as summer draws closer. About 2/3 of all internships are developed through either cold-calling or networking.

For the other 1/3, i.e. the ones that are advertised, plan to get really active on posting sites, our Web site, etc. shortly after the MN Private Colleges Job and Internship Fair in early spring.

Also, please feel free to schedule an appointment with a Career Specialist to discuss your personal goals in more detail. Call (651) 962-6761 to schedule an appointment.

Should I use a headhunter in my search?

The more experienced and specialized you are, the more helpful a recruiting firm can be. If you are seeking an entry level position or if your experience is quite diverse, other resources could be more effective.

How do I search for a job in another state?

There are a number of resources for this kind of search: the Internet, the Chamber of Commerce for your designated state or cities, the newspaper local to your area of interest, and contacts through friends, fellow alumni, or family.

Resumes, Cover Letters, and References

Does the resume have to be just one page?

No, a well spaced resume with relevant information on two pages is more important than a one page crammed resume or a one page resume with small font. Usually people with extensive work histories and/or graduate degree will most likely need a two page resume.

Do I always need a cover letter, even when I FAX my resume?

Yes, think of the receiver of your resume. The cover letter allows the reader to know why they are getting this document and who the sender is.

Do I have to put an objective on my resume?

No, but the reader needs to easily see that the resume is targeted toward a specific goal. This might be accomplished through a summary or profile. It could also be handled in the cover letter if the information in the resume is cohesive and focused.

If a job requires references, who should I choose?

Ideal references are people who have known you for at least a year, ideally longer. The most credible, and therefore, helpful, references would be: former and current supervisors or former and current professors. Other possible references include: former customers and/or clients, contacts from work-related associations or volunteer work, or a professional in the community who has known you for a long time.

How should I contact the references I want to use?

Once you have chosen three to five candidates, call them to be sure they are willing to provide a positive reference for you. When you actually give out your reference page to an employer, it's a good idea to let your references know you've given out their names, remind them they may be getting a call, and tell them a bit about the position for which you are being considered.

Do I send my references a copy of my resume so they are more informed?

Giving your references a copy of your resume  in advance is not a bad idea.

What information do I include on my reference page?

The look of a reference page often mirrors that of the resume one uses (fonts, formatting, etc.) Be sure to include the name, phone number, address, and E-mail address of the reference. For work related references include their job title and place of employment. When it is not obvious how you know the person, it is acceptable to insert a brief explanation.

Interviewing

What is the most effective way to prepare for an interview?

Determine what skills, knowledge, abilities and experience are important in the position for which you are interviewing. Prepare to demonstrate that you have these assets and think of specific examples to back up your claims. Research the company, organization or school as a way to determine what needs you can meet and to help you prepare good questions to ask the interviewer.

What do I do if I interview with more than one interviewer at a time?

In group interviews or interviews with more than one interviewer, you will want to look mostly at the person asking you for information. But do make eye contact with the other person(s) and, whenever possible, make a connection with any similar information shared with that person.

Evaluating/Negotiating Job Offers

How will I know how to choose if I get more than one offer?

Be clear from the start what your values and priorities are. Know your skills and interests. See if the positions encompass these factors and to what extent. Knowing your criteria before you begin your search will make the decision easier when the offers are made.

How will I know if the salary offer is fair or not?

Fair has to do with what the market will pay and whether or not this matches your skills and experience relevant to what the company needs. Research salary information on the Web, through your networking, and in various print materials particular to your geographic location and size of the company.