- An updated Resume - did you have an exciting internship this summer, work on an interesting research project, study abroad or devote your time to volunteer work?? If so, make sure you document all of it on your resume. Don't wait until the night before the career fair or application deadline to update your resume. Do it now while all your responsibilities and accomplishments are fresh on your mind.
- A new agenda - I love the Erin Condren Life Planners (because you can personalize it) and the Lilly Pulitzer agendas. I couldn't have made it through college without my "planner". I know people are moving towards electronic and mobile calendars but I still love to see the full month and color code my life. A well-organized calendar, planner or agenda can be a life-saver when you are scheduling interviews, information sessions, class assignments, work, meetings, football games, date parties and all the other fun stuff you will be doing this year.
- A business suit - It's time to put on your "big girl pants" and invest in a sharp looking suit. A great suit will serve many purposes in your college life. Of course, with a suit you will be prepared for fall Career Fairs and interviewing, but you can also use the suit when you interview for leadership positions on campus, at formal chapter or student organization meetings, and as separate pieces. Pair your suit jacket with some boyfriend jeans and strappy heels and you will look hip and sophisticated for a night out with your friends.
- A completed Linked In profile - Will Linked In eventually replace the resume?? I don't know if we are there yet but Linked In is definitely a must for job seekers and professionals these days. Not only can you look for jobs and network for jobs through Linked In but it is also a great way to put together an "electronic" resume and portfolio of your work. More and more employers and recruiters and using Linked In to identify and screen candidates for jobs. Employers may not be able to accept your resume at a job fair but they can certainly take your business card with your Linked In information on it. DON'T FORGET: you should have a professional looking head shot on Linked In (not one of you tailgating or at the beach with your friends) and claim your personal Linked In URL.
- A fun Scout bag - I love these Scout bags!! Besides being adorable, they are also great for school, the gym, packing your lunch, carrying to tailgates as well as packing a storing all your stuff in your small college room. You will find one for almost any need you have. They even monogram them. And every girl loves a bag with her monogram!
- A professional padfolio - A padfolio is typically a leather notebook or folder. In a padfolio you will typically find a notepad, a pocket to put copies of your resume and a pen loop. They often have pockets to store business cards and other items. A padfolio is a business staple for meetings and interviews and is the most professional way to store your resumes and take notes during Career Fairs and Interviews.
It couldn't hurt to pack a positive attitude and a big smile too!
