Transfer and Non-Traditional Student Insight from Mona

We have the opportunity to have an intern in our office for two weeks during this Fall semester. Her name is Mona Singer and she is working on her Masters degree at SDSU; she received her Bachelors degree from DSU. She began her college experience at DSU as a non-trad student and wanted to offer some insight to those of you who are non-trads or transfer students to DSU. You will see periodic postings written by her. ENJOY!! NOW for the first one....

Written by Mona Singer

Here in this small part of cyber space I would like to offer you the transfer or non-traditional student an opportunity for finding tips on finding careers and perhaps share an embarrassing story that could lead to advice.

First things first; do you realize that there really is a difference between a job and a career? Think about it:
A career is something that you want to do, that you can not wait to get up in the morning and get to, it challenges you and excites you. It is something that you have planned for, studied for, and strengthened your skills for.
A job is only working to receive a paycheck; and while it does involve having skills, knowledge and promotions often times you find yourself looking in the mirror and realizing that it is only a job and that at least it does pay the bills, right?
So, obviously if you are reading this blog and you are taking classes here at DSU than you are on the path towards obtaining your goal of having a career. Congratulations!
You are now finally on the right path and doesn’t it feel exciting knowing that sooner rather than later you will have the career you have dreamed of?
Here are a couple of tips I would love to share with you, these are tips that I have learned as I have walked that same path you’re on…
Use this time here at DSU as more than a learning tool; take advantage of your professors and actually learn from them. Now hold on, what I am referring to is watch how they conduct themselves professionally. You have to be able to speak professionally, not with a ‘whole bunch a slang’, carry yourself professionally, no slouching! You have to be professional and what better place to learn this than in your classes?
Learn to take criticism because at your chosen career you will receive criticism. Criticism is not meant to harm you but rather to correct and build your strengths. As your writing your papers and you are proof-reading learn to walk away from the paper...to give yourself a break of an hour and come back clear-minded, this will allow you to find the mistakes you may have missed if you had done the proof-reading right away.
What does all of this have to do with Career Services and Internships? Simple. Each tip is meant to lead you towards success the same as the Career Services and Internship office. By utilizing your every minute here on campus and than utilizing the Career Services and Internship office you will be more than prepared to have your career.

Heather's Birthday!!

Hey everyone! Today is Heather's birthday so stop in to Career Services and wish her a Happy Birthday...AND sign up for upcoming On-Campus Interviews and visit our Resource Room to prepare yourself and show potential future employers just how awesome you really are!

~Happy Birthday Heather!~

DSU NEWS IS AWESOME!!

Make sure you constantly check out dsunews.com for the latest happenings in Career Services and on campus!!

POP QUIZ!!!!!!

All work and no play? No way! Take a break from your day and see how tech savvy you are!!...

"How tech savvy are you?" QUIZ
http://www.verybestcoffee.com/smooth/quiz2.aspx

WHAT IS IN ROOM 206 HESTON HALL??

...IT'S THE CAREER SERVICES RESOURCE ROOM!!! Exciting, huh?!?!? So what exactly is in the Resource Room you ask?....

1. VIDEOS...We even have a TV/VCR combo...ready to go back to the VHS era?!?!?
"How To Make a Job Fair Work For You"
"Telephone Courtesy Pays"
"The Career Connection"
"Interviewing"

2. BOOKS....YES, the Resource Room is a cool place to hang out and read!!
Topics include:
Resumes
Cover Letters
Interviewing
Salary Negotiating
Tips for the 1st Job

3. MAGAZINES...You are free to take one with you or stay and relax while you read!!
Job Choice Magazines:
For Science, Engineering & Technology Students
For Business, Liberal Arts Students
Diversity Edition

4. LOTS OF COMPANY INFORMATION...Learn about the company before you interview!
...It will knock their socks off!!

5. SEVERAL PAMPHLETS

6. GRADUATE SCHOOL INFORMATION...Just Do It - Take the next step!!!!!!

COME VISIT MONDAY - FRIDAY BETWEEN 8-5
PLEASE stop into Room 206C FIRST to let us know you are here to explore!! THANKS!!

Madison's "Major Attractions"

So now that school has officially consumed your life for a couple weeks, let Dwight offer you some more ideas of fun things to do around Madison. Here are some of Madison's "major atrractions."

*Prairie Village: Located a couple miles west of Madison, Prairie Village is a living history museum created from turn-of-the-century buildings moved from around the state to create a community that never was. You can take your friends camping and tour the village and go back to the"good old days." You’ll also find a gift shop, daily carousel rides (yay!) and train rides (sweet! train rides) during special events. From the Steam Threshing Jamboree to Railroad Days, Prairie Village has some pretty cool stuff to keep you occupied and away from your homework. Sound interesting? Check out their website at http://www.prairievillage.org/.

*Smith-Zimmermann Museum: Bored during your break from classes. Take some time to venture into the Smith-Zimmerman Museum located right on DSU's campus! And...admission is FREE!

*Lake County Speedway is just a few minutes south of Madison on Hwy 19. Race fans can head out to the track every Saturday night at 8 p.m. for the excitement. Bored on Saturday night? Head on out to the races and hang out with your friends. Pick your favorite car and see if they win! Want more information, visit the website at http://www.husets-speedway.com/lakecounty/index.htm.

* The "Giant Buffalo."He has a mullet and he's probably the biggest buffalo you'll ever see!! The super cool buffalo is located on the intersection of HWY 34 Bypass and Washington Ave. Getting your picture taken by the buffalo is a must for all college students. :)

Did we miss any "major attractions" in Madison? Let us know!

How to Become Familiar with Your College Town

When I moved into the dorms my freshman year of college, it was only the 2nd time I had ever been to Madison...and the only place I had been was on campus. So when I needed something, I had no idea what to do or where to go. And although I am embarrassed to admit this...I did get lost in Madison..but it only happened once! We advise that new students to DSU know where the local grocery store, gas station, pharmacy, and hospital(it's right by campus for those of you who aren't exactly aware of your surroounding) are located. Trust me, you will need all of these places sometime in your college career. And of course there are other important places to know about such as the "cool" places to eat/hangout, the coffeeshop, the dollar stores, etc. Here are some tips for getting to know Madison...

*Ride your bike or walk around town to familiarize yourself with Madison street life (umm...but don't expect too much...we sometimes have to make our own street life).

*Read the local papers and magazines to find out what's happening. You're an adult now so its okay to watch the news and see whats up in the world other than just DSU happenings. It's easy to get wrapped up in just your campus life....but be aware of what's going on in the world. (It will make you look smarter too)

*Go to community events, concerts and sporting events. College towns love to see college students out and about supporting their community so check out some stuff going on in Madison....plus community events usually mean free or cheap food for college students.

*Shop at the local stores. Downtown Madison has several shops that have almost anything you neeed. There are also stores such as Pamida, Lewis, Dollar General, Family Dollar, etc. if you feel the need for a shopping spree with your friends.

*Visit places like coffee shops, the post office, breakfast joints and bars where the locals hang out. It's always fun to get to know the locals!

*Get involved in the community....volunteer, join a sports league, music group, community organization or church, or just participate in random activities around the community. Getting involved around town helps you feel more "at home" while at college and those activities can really make your resume look stellar!

I Want A Part Time Job...

Still looking for a part time job? Are you still looking for that "perfect job" or maybe you found one but don't know how to apply or take the next step.

Setp 1. Decide on the type of job you want or need- consider the type of job, the location, the hours, and the pay. Remember that not all part time jobs are glamorous, but hey...they pay the bills, teach you transferrable skills (time management, customer service, etc.) and keep you looking forward to graduating and landing your dream job! :)

Step 2. Complete a self-analysis. What are you good at? (keep it professional) What skills do you have? What do you have to offer? And remember, employers don't care that you can play video games for 24hrs straight or drink two cases of...Mountain Dew (or your preferred choice of beverage) in one night. It's just not relevant in the job world. I recommend SIGI. It's an awesome program that helps you identify what you're good as well as strengths/weakness. The link is located on our website so check it out!!!!

Step 3. Create a resume. Resumes can be scary and confusing but it is always good to have one on hand! Need help with your resume?? WE CAN HELP!!! Contact Heather at 256-5155 or heather.muller@dsu.edu or just stop in (Heston Hall 204) and we'll get you started!!

Step 4. Okay, you've found the job you want to apply for. Take all the appropriate application materials (this usually includes a general application, company application or resume-depending on the employer). Our office has applications for all the business in the Madison area as well as the General 510 Job Application. Stop in to grab whatever you need!
When dropping off your application to the employer make sure to introduce yourself, shake the employer's hand, make eye contact and dress appropriately- sometimes employers like to interview applicants on the spot. Remember, first impressions are very important! I highly recommend not wearing your favorite pair of sweats and your ratty old baseball cap...and you should probably shower. (just a suggestion)

Step 5. You're done with that part. Now it's just waiting to hear back from the employer for an interview or to hear if you've received the position. If you haven't heard back from the employer for some time, don't be afraid to call and check on the status of the position you applied for. It shows that you are truly interested in the job.

For a complete listing of open part time positions in the area visit our website at http://www.departments.dsu.edu/career/. Dont' forget- Heather or Crystal are here to answer any questions or concerns you have about part time job employment! Let us help you find a job that works for you!

SWEET WEBSITE!

I came across the following website today...

'I Am Next'...where college and university students are going!
http://www.iamnext.com/

It has a channel specific to Careers and everything else from academics to dealing with issues in your personal life. I also recommend the Fun channel...The Question Lady definitely has an interesting job!! Not gonna lie...I was very anxious to find her answer to this question a student asked titled 'Belly Buttons'...submitted by Confused, "I have a horrible dilemma. My brother has an outie belly button. I have an inny, and so do both my parents. Is it possible that he's not really related to me?" ...LOL

You will also find our favorite University (DSU, duh!!) under American University Listings!!

Bored??? Let Dwight help you find something to do...

Looking for something to do??? Well, it looks like Dwight also needs something more fun to do as well... Here's some things around the Madison area that you (and Dwight) can try...

For the outdoorsman (or woman) there is a variety of things to do....

Visit the SD State Parks near Madison and visit Lake Madison or Lake Herman! Enjoy a weekend camping trip with friends or just hang out with the fishies for the afternoon and go canoeing, boating, or kayaking, skiing or swimming. Don't forget to show off your fishing skills and reel in a "big one!"

If you want to just hang out in Madison, try one of the several parks for a game of baseball, soccer, basketball or tennis. Up for a game of frisbee golf? West Side Park has a course for you to demonstrate your "mad" frisbee skills. Don't forget the skating rinks and picnic shelters too! For those true animal lovers, the Madison area is home to several bird species! So if you find you need a break from all the homework and computer games, Birdwatching is always an option! :)

If you're more of an Indoorsman (or woman) check out Cherry Lanes & the West Twin Theatres - they are located right next to each other on West Hwy 34. Take your pick between the two movies showing (Yup...that's right...two choices) and then bowl a few games right next door.

Check back for more information on the Madison area "attractions" in the future!

NEW TO MADISON?

Have you been wondering what the town of Madison has to offer? Here is the site for you...
http://www.madison.sd.us/.

It even has the current weather conditions!! EXCITING!

In addition, National and Sports News! ......................
Interesting National News for today...Boys set cockroaches on fire, Burn Down Grandparents' House! No worries...no one was hurt in the blaze EXCEPT the creepy cockroaches! RIP Cockroaches.

Much better than what could have been listed....
...Britney Spear's performance on the MTV VMA's. Ummmm.......????????

NEW STAFF MEMBER!!

We would like to introduce Mr. Dwight K. Schrute as our newest (unpaid) Student Employment Office employee! He has a lot of opinions so you will get his view on several important employment issues in the months to come!

A little bit about Dwight....Dwight is an entrepreneur of a very important beet farm, one that has been in his family for generations. In addition, he is the Assistant (to the) Regional Manager at Dunder Mifflin.

Of course, this comes from Crystal and my infatuation with "The Office" which airs every Thursday...new season starting September 27th!! And Season 3 is fresh on the shelves as of Tuesday!!

A few words of wisdom from our new (unpaid) employee, Mr. Schrute...

Whenever I’m about to do something, I think “would an idiot do that?” and if they would, I do not do that thing.

Find out if you are a "Dwight" in your work setting at....http://www.brainfall.com/test21_1.php.

Top 5 reasons why you may not have checked out DSU Career Services...

No matter where you are in your education, it is never too late or too early to check out DSU Career Services Office.

Top 5 reasons why you may not have checked out DSU Career Services...
5. It is your senior year and you think it is too late....SOLUTION = It is never too late! DSU Career Services Office has an average of 50 companies that come to campus to interview our students for full-time and internship positions. Ideally all students should start using the DSU Career Services as a resource at the beginning of their college career.
4. You don't want to take the stairs....SOLUTION = ELEVATOR
3. You may not have checked your DSU Pluto email....SOLUTION = Check out dsunews.com!!
2. You are not currently interested in seeking employment...SOLUTION = You can find other valuable resources on our site, such as SIGI - a self-assessment with in-depth and up-to-date career information that is easy to use and provides students with a realistic view of the best education and career options for their future success.
1. You are waiting for you schedule to ease up...SOLUTION = Interactive 24/7 website at http://www.departments.dsu.edu/career/default.asp.

WELCOME!!

Hey! DSU Student Employment/Career Services would like to introduce our new Blog - Day In and Day Out with Crystal and Heather! Crystal Hieb (current DSU student/Student Employment Office Assistant) and I (Heather Muller-Student Employment Coordinator) are here to inform you on important employment/career information such as interviewing, resumes, and networking; basically EVERYTHING employment/career related. Not only are we going to inform you BUT we will put a fun and sometimes interactive twist on it!! Hope you are ready to learn AND have fun! We will have a "theme" each month and teach/entertain you as we go. BUT please feel free to ask any questions, at any time, that you may have regarding employment/careers, (our contact information is below). In addition, feel free to contact the rest of our Career Services "family" - Marie Lohsandt, Director of Career and Internship Services, and Janelle Nielsen, Career Services Senior Secretary, in Heston Hall - Room 206 or at 256-5122.

ENJOY!!

September: Introduction to Career Services and Madison
October: Interviewing
November: Career Exploration
December: Diversity in the Workplace
January: Job Fair
February: Networking
March: Resume
April: TO BE ANNOUNCED
May: "What's Next" - Entering your Career

Heather Muller
Student Employment Coordinator
204 Heston Hall
heather.muller@dsu.edu
cheather4jobs@hotmail.com
Facebook (DSU Student Employment): SEARCH Heather Muller
MSN IM: cheather4jobs@hotmail.com
(605) 256-5155

Crystal Hieb
Student Employment Office Assistant / DSU Student
204 Heston Hall
hiebc@pluto.dsu.edu
ccrystal4jobs@hotmail.com
Facebook (DSU Student Employment): SEARCH Heather Muller
MSN IM: ccrystal4jobs@hotmail.com
(605) 256-5155