Employment Advice for the Class of 2007

College is a great time to discover who you are and your passions, but there were a few things I wish I knew before I graduated

I graduated with a degree in English, Theatre, and Art History. I didn't want to teach (except at a college level), didn't have a science or technical background, wasn't going to law school- so what was I going to do?

It took 150+ applications/resume submissions to find the perfect job and here are a few things I discovered while I navigated the job market.

1.) If you can afford it and you have the drive, further your education.
History majors/ Art History Majors: PhDs are often needed for curatorial work and museum work. If you want to work for museums such as the Met or the Guggenheim, they do accept resumes year round and will hold them for up to six months, but be advised that curatorial, research, and excavation jobs are given to those with the most education. It always helps to know someone too.
Teachers: Do consider a Masters of Education and/or employment in the cities. There is a high demand for both right now. Elementary Ed. majors should consider minoring in Art or Theatre. Theatres with state grants are starting to develop more educational programs. I've noticed many opportunities, especially in Philadelphia, for teachers with experience in creative fields.

2.) Learn a second language.
Spanish majors: You will get hired without trouble. Every company I have researched (roughly 75- 80) has needed a bilingual individual in their department. Spanish is the most useful secondary language in the US.
3.) Success comes in to those who a.) make a decision and b.) are willing to take risks.
Part of my problem was my inability to make a decision about where I wanted to live and what kind of job(s) I was looking for.

a.) make a list of specific goals
b.) get out of your comfort zone

4.) If you have an artistic background, make sure your cover letter "speaks" to the right audience.

Take advice from your friends with a BS degree in regards to concise and specific writing. Sometimes us artistic folks can get too flowery with our language. A cover letter can make or break a job interview/opportunity.