Are You a New UC Grad Looking for Advice? We've Got It!

The University of Cincinnati is preparing to graduate UC's Class of 2011 this weekend, sending them into the rough and tough world of career building. On the UC Alumni Association's Linkedin group, we recently asked our seasoned alumni to offer up their best advice for new college grads. And boy, did they deliver!

Below is just a sampling of a few of our favorites, and later this week we'll feature another round of advice from the discussion. If you have any tidbits of your own you'd like to share, please feel free to comment below, or better yet, join in on the actual discussion on Linkedin!

Jacquelyn Baker Cincinnati, Ohio
BBA,Marketing & International Business, Lindner College of Business, Class of 2002
"Network, network, network! Use the summer (and great weather) as an opportunity to take people for coffee. Ask them about their careers, advice they have, etc. In this world, it's all about who you know. You never know when a casual lunch or coffee conversation will turn into a career idea or a connection they can make for you. The UC Alumni network is vast. Use them! These people offer a wide array of knowledge and connections for you, as well as a deep love for UC. They want to help you out. It makes people feel important when you reach out to them for advice. Tap into these networks every chance you get."

Gregory Hoodin Cincinnati, Ohio
AS, Accounting, Lindner College of Business, Class of 1987
"You will hear the word no, but often a no leads to a yes somewhere else." 

Michael Prucha Sarasota, Florida
BS, Mechanical Engineering, UC College of Engineering, Class of 1996
"My best advice to new entrants into the workforce is to find ways to differentiate yourself. While everyone needs a buck, if there's a way to 'volunteer your time' at a company you want to work for, you stand the best chance of meeting the people you need to build relationships with and distinguish yourself. Companies are certainly looking for low cost, low risk investments in resourcing. Definitely stay positive, as well. You never know when you'll be standing next to someone who works at your next employer and you want support for your job pursuit. Finally - find ways to keep busy in a constructive manner. Companies will appreciate it if you've found ways to give back to the community. You'll find it rewarding while building out your network and developing key relationships."

Jan Polk Cincinnati, Ohio
AS, Administrative Management, Business, UC Evening College, Class of 1980 
"Good Manners are Powerful! Don't leave home without them. When all things are equal, employers will hire the person who is honorable, trustworthy and respectful to others. Technology does not trump behaving respectfully to each other."