Seeking Advice on Finding Internships and Job Opportunities
I’m a STEM graduate with a master’s degree, and I’ve been on the job hunt for nearly a year now. I have interned at a small investment bank in Los Angeles and a small venture capital firm. I’ve been applying to every relevant position I can find—finance roles, analyst positions, startups—basically anything connected to my background. I’m actively networking and aim to have at least two coffee chats each week.
Despite my efforts, I’m still without a job. I’ve sent out over 600 applications but have received very few responses, let alone interviews. It’s disheartening, and I’m starting to doubt my qualifications, even though I know I’ve put in the hard work. Financially, I’m struggling; my savings are nearly depleted, and I’m worried about becoming homeless. It’s been a tough journey.
Is this a common experience, or am I missing something in my approach? Securing a job isn’t just a convenience for me—it’s essential for my survival. This situation feels incredibly overwhelming and hopeless.
Has anyone else faced similar challenges? I would appreciate any insights or support.
One response
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through such a tough time. It sounds incredibly challenging, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. First, let’s acknowledge that job hunting can be a grueling process, and the current job market is quite competitive for many fields, including finance and STEM.
Here are a few suggestions that might help you navigate this situation:
Refine Your Application Materials: Make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to each position you apply for. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences clearly, and consider emphasizing results you achieved during your internships.
Leverage Your Network: You mentioned you’re already networking and doing coffee chats, which is great. Try to ask your contacts for referrals or insights about specific companies. Sometimes it helps to be directly recommended by someone already inside the company.
Consider Broader Roles: If you’re applying solely to finance roles or analyst positions, consider expanding your search to related areas where your skills might still be a great fit. Look into roles like data analysis, project management, or even roles that may not have the word “finance” in them but utilize similar skills.
Online Presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and reflects your skills and experiences effectively. Engage with relevant content or join groups in your field to increase your visibility.
Utilize Job Boards Wisely: While you’ve applied to many jobs, make sure you’re also using niche job boards or community platforms that cater to your specific field. Sometimes smaller startups post jobs on different platforms that may not be as flooded with applicants.
Seek Feedback: If you have connections in HR or hiring, ask for feedback on your resume or interview approach. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can help identify areas to improve.
Stay Positive and Take Care of Yourself: It’s easy to feel hopeless, but self-care is crucial during this tough time. Consider finding local support services or community resources that can help with your immediate needs.
Explore Temporary Work: If possible, consider looking for temporary or part-time work to help you stay afloat while continuing your job hunt. Even roles that aren’t in your field can help relieve some financial pressure.
It’s true that many people are facing similar challenges in today’s job market. Keep pushing through, and don’t hesitate to lean on your support system during this tough time. You’ve got the qualifications, and your persistence will pay off eventually!