Your last year at Bates is full of potential and promise as you complete academic graduation requirements, thesis, and envision options for the first years as a college graduate. Note we said "options": most seniors have many ideas and interests. Conversely, some seniors say "I don't know what I want to do after graduation" frequently meaning:
- I have some ideas but don't know how to choose
- I am unsure how to reach my goals
- I am not positive I will like those destinations
The world is asking you one question: what will satisfy you for the next six months or few years after graduation. You are not making a life-long decision. Essentially, your first year after graduation is for experiencing a full-time option.
Yes, your senior year will be full and your needs may frequently change and refocus. Promise and opportunity always carry a sense of excitement and fear. Both emotions are normal and to be expected. The OCS has developed some enriched and practical services for your transition from Bates to your first destination including:
- Expressing your major, activities, jobs, internships, needs, values, and skills in a practical and realistic manner
- Graduate school applications and access to graduate and professional schools
- Constructing and polishing up your resumes - yes, have several resumes!
- Evaluating alternative options including post-grad internships, travel, etc.
- Using on and off-campus recruiting
- Time lines for your senior year
- Insights from recent grads and alumni
- Mapping out your experiences and discovering unique connections
- Networking with alumni for information and leads on job strategies
- Continuing and focusing your conversations with the OCS staff
- Using the OCS web site and eRecruiting to its full potential
- Enhancing your competitive edge through OCS training sessions
- Learning OCS services for alumni
Check out the links we put together for you on the Fourth-Year Jump Start page. Remember: it is never too early or late to use the OCS. We are here to work with you. Call and set up an appointment at (207) 786-6232.
