Help Wanted: From graduation to gainful employment

Amanda Hoffstrom

As a journalism major, I did not expect the job search to be seamless, but it has been more challenging than I originally expected. Someone once told me that looking for a job is a full-time job in itself, and they were right. It is especially difficult with full-time school, a part-time job and all the activities that come with the final months of college at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to send out perfect resumes and cover letters.

The economic downturn certainly hasn’t helped either. I have been discouraged by newspapers filing for bankruptcy or cutting staff positions, as well as magazines ceasing publication. I am mainly looking for a job at a newspaper, magazine or online publication as a writer, reporter or assistant editor. However, I am open for any position that encourages creativity, analytical thinking and strong communication skills.

The good news (if there can be good news in a bad economy) is that there are companies out there hiring new grads. I have seen openings online in both journalism and public relations on job boards and company Web sites. I have applied to positions at newspapers, magazines, news blogs, Web sites, public relations firms and book publishing houses. I have also widened my search to include three- to six-month internships because I still see myself as a student of the profession. I have used LinkedIn and other outlets to seek job prospects through neighbors, previous employers and professors as well.

Though my job search has not solicited the results I want yet, I am not giving up. I am sending out work samples as often as I can in the hopes that my experience will match what a hiring manager is looking for. As my dad says, it only takes one company to say yes.