As an athlete in college, the daily grind of balancing balancing school and sports kept me busy. Juggling practices, games, and coursework gave me less time to focus on internship prospects and career prep. If I’m being truly honest, I also didn’t have the foresight to plan for my future after basketball. This meant I went three and a half years in college not building a resume, applying to internships, or seeking out my schools career services program. When it came time to look for open positions, I felt the pressure.
Even if you don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for your life after sports, you might need to do a little extra work to find your dream role. Not all schools offer robust resources tailored specifically for student-athletes. Additionally, not all programs might offer jobs or internships in your area. While there were internship and job opportunities for me in Connecticut (where I went to school) I wanted to launch my career back home in New York. My school, at the time, didn’t have as many connections to NY-based opportunities. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry – there are still plenty of options available to help you navigate the job search process and secure employment after graduation.
Strategies for Athletes Beyond Career Services
- Utilize Online Resources: There is a wealth of information available online to assist with job searching and career development. Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor offer job listings, networking opportunities, and advice on resume writing and interview preparation. Take advantage of these platforms to explore career options, connect with professionals in your field, and stay updated on industry trends.
- Network with former Athletes: Reach out to alumni who were also student-athletes or professionals in your desired field. Alumni networks can provide valuable insights, advice, and potential job leads. Attend networking events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and utilize your school’s alumni database to connect with individuals who can offer guidance and support in your job search. Also don’t be afraid to ask your coach or other coaches to connect you with former athletes.
- Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can provide personalized guidance and support as you navigate your career path. This could be a coach, faculty member, or professional in your field of interest. A mentor can offer valuable advice, help you set goals, and provide encouragement during your job search.
- Participate in Internships or Externships: Gain practical experience and build your resume by participating in internships or externships related to your field of interest. Many companies offer internship programs specifically for college students, providing valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to network with professionals in the industry. Check with your academic advisor, coaches, or professors for assistance in finding internship opportunities.
- Attend Workshops and Career Fairs: Take advantage of workshops, career fairs, and job search events hosted by your school, local organizations, or professional associations. These events provide opportunities to network with employers, learn about job openings, and gain valuable insights into various industries. Even if your school doesn’t have a dedicated career services program, they may still organize events to support students in their job search.
- Consider Graduate School or Professional Certification: If you’re unsure about your career path or want to gain additional skills and credentials, consider pursuing graduate school or professional certification in your field of interest. Many programs offer flexible options for working professionals, allowing you to continue training while working or participating in athletics.
- Take Advantage of Transferable Skills: Highlight the transferable skills you’ve developed as a student-athlete, such as teamwork, leadership, time management, and discipline. These skills are highly valued by employers and can set you apart from other candidates in the job market. Be sure to showcase these skills on your resume and during job interviews.
While navigating the job search ‘late in the game’ can be challenging, there are still plenty of options available to student-athletes. By utilizing online resources, networking with alumni and professionals, seeking mentorship, gaining practical experience through internships, attending workshops and career fairs, considering further education or certification, and highlighting transferable skills, you can position yourself for success in the job market. Remember, perseverance, determination, and resilience are qualities that both student-athletes and successful professionals share – use them to your advantage as you embark on your career journey.