Employment Guide

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Advertiser Index

Arandell Corporation.......................................................................................................................................... 66 Arrow Building Center....................................................................................................................................... 66 Aurora Community Services.............................................................................................................................. 68 Baldwin Supply Company.................................................................................................................................. 67 Bauer Built Tire & Service................................................................................................................................. 68 Bayland Buildings, Inc....................................................................................................................................... 66 Belmark, Inc....................................................................................................................................................... 69 BW Papersystems..................................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover Charter Next Generation. ................................................................................................................................... 68 Children’s of Alabama........................................................................................................................................ 86 Creative Homes........................................................................................................................ Inside Front Cover Eau Claire Academy........................................................................................................................................... 71 EVCO Plastics.................................................................................................................................................... 72 Foremost Farms USA......................................................................................................................................... 73 Glenroy, Inc........................................................................................................................................................ 71 Gorman & Company, LLC................................................................................................................................. 74 Great Northern Corporation. .............................................................................................................................. 75 Green Bay Packaging......................................................................................................................................... 75 Hunter Engineering. ........................................................................................................................................... 76 IGO Legacy Hotel Group................................................................................................................................... 70 Intek Plastics....................................................................................................................................................... 71 J.F. Brennan Company, Inc................................................................................................................................. 77 Japs-Olson Company..............................................................................................................Outside Back Cover Marten Transport................................................................................................................................................ 77 McCain Foods. ................................................................................................................................................... 78 Menards Inc........................................................................................................................................................ 83 Neuman Pools..................................................................................................................................................... 77 Nolato Contour................................................................................................................................................... 78 Packaging Corporation of America.................................................................................................................... 79 Pen & Inc. of Milwaukee. .................................................................................................................................. 79 Phillips-Medisize................................................................................................................................................ 80 Quanex Building Products.................................................................................................................................. 80 REGIS Catholic Schools.................................................................................................................................... 80 Rocket Industrial, Inc......................................................................................................................................... 81 Smart Data Solutions .......................................................................................................................................... 88 SMC Ltd............................................................................................................................................................. 82 The Dirks Group................................................................................................................................................. 81 Therma-Tron-X, Inc.. ......................................................................................................................................... 81 Weather Shield ................................................................................................................................................... 84 Wenger Corporation. .......................................................................................................................................... 83 Western Construction Group ......................................................................................................................................... 8 8 Wilderness Resort............................................................................................................................................... 85 Y-Tex Corporation.............................................................................................................................................. 83

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Table Of Contents

Job Search Documents Co-op, Internship, and Job Search Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Resume Writing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 + Sample Resume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Sample References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 How to Write Skill Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 How to Avoid a Resume Rejection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Cover & Job Search Letters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 + Sample Letters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Networking Network Your Way To a Job. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Your 30 Second Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 LinkedIn Profile Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Informational Interviews. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Career Readiness Are You Career Ready . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Career Assessment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Career Development Stages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Services Offered & How To Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Handshake Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Cooperative Education and Internship Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 UW-Stout Career Services

3

103 ADMINISTRATION BUILDING | 8:00a - 4:30p M-F 715 232 1601 | CAREERSERVICES@UWSTOUT EDU

Interviewing How to Prepare for an Interview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Make an Impression. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Research the Employer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Interview Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-45 Preparing for your Virtual Interview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 The S T A R Technique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 + S T A R Response Examples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Interview Assessment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Self Evaluation Form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 More on Interviewing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 The Second Interview/Site Visit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Job Searching Logging in to Handshake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 Tailor Your Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Attend Career Conference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Prospecting Job Search Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Email Correspondence. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 International Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Study Abroad & International Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Job Searching for Individuals with Disabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Offers & Negotiating

Offers & Negotiation Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Job Search Ethics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 College to Career. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Graduate School

Guide to Graduate School Planning 62 Writing Your Personal Statement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Partial List of Employers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

4

Services Offered

UW-Stout Career Services Our mission is to educate, engage, and empower students and alumni in navigating career and professional development through employer and faculty/staff partnerships

Our Events Fall Career Conference: Sept 26th - Sept 29th Winter Job Shadow: Jan 3rd - 20th Spring Career Conference: Feb 27th - Mar 2nd Art & Design Week: Mar 27th - Mar 31st

Career Counseling Career Counselors are available to meet individually with students of all levels of experience and interest areas to work through every step of the career development process. Appointments & Office Hours In-person or virtual appointments can be scheduled online in Handshake or by calling (715) 232-1601. Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm Co-op & Internship Program The Cooperative Education and Internship program is UW-Stout’s most popular internship program. Each year over 1000+ students earn credit and gain valuable experience while working in positions. Career Services coordinates the Co-op and Internship program for all students. (See more on page 6)

The Career Services office hosts events such as career conferences, industry showcases, and networking events, as well as workshops on career development topics like resume and cover letter writing, job and co-op and internship searching and networking. Online Resources Our office provides students access to top-notch resources in order to explore potential career paths, research organizations, and find co-op/internship and full-time opportunities including access to our Employment Guide. Special Events &Workshops employers with the opportunity to post jobs, information sessions, attend career conferences and industry specific events, and conduct interviews on campus. Through this system, employers connect with students to provide information about their industry, company and employment opportunities. ( See more on page 32) Handshake Our recruiting platform provides

Connect With Us

On-Campus Interviews On Campus Employers interview over 1000 students each year on campus. Career Services coordinates the on-campus interview program. Use Handshake to view and sign up for on campus interviews.

Contact Information

https://www.uwstout.edu/academics/career-services | careerservices@uwstout.edu 103 Administration Building, 712 S. Broadway, Menomonie, WI 54751 | 715-232-1601

UW-STOUT CAREER SERVICES

UW-STOUT CAREER SERVICES

@UWSTOUTCAREERSERVICES

5

Handshake Resources

Welcome To Handshake Making an account is easy, and you’ll be able to network with employers, find and apply for jobs, and access Career Services staff and resources Handshake is a online job board containing on-campus, part-time, full-time, internship, co-op and volunteer opportunities posted by employers looking to hire Stout students and alumni! Log-in 1. Go to logins.uwstout.edu and select Handshake 2. Select Student Log-in 3. Log in using your UW-Stout username and password Select your privacy levels Community: You can message students and alumni, receive messages from employers, and browse open jobs and events. Your profile will be visible to employers, students and alumni at all colleges and universities on the Handshake Platform. Employer: You can still receive messages from employers, and browse open jobs and events, and your profile will be visible to employers, but you won’t be able to message students or alumni from Stout on Handshake. Private: You’ll be able to browse jobs and register for events, but you cannot message students, alumni, or employers. Your profile will only be visible to employers that you’ve applied for a position. Upload your resume Never written one before? ( See page 13 ) Complete your profile: Hover over the upper right corner of each box to edit and update each section. Pro tip: Employers are more likely to look at your profile if it’s more complete and you’ve uploaded a resume. Aim for 80% or more of your profile to be complete! Schedule a meeting with your Career Counselor 1. Select “Career Center” in the upper right 2. Click “Appointments” and follow each prompt 3. You can then pick a date, time, in-person or virtual, and appointment topic Additional Virtual Services: GoinGlobal Search for positions worldwide. Reference USA This online directory of over 45 million U.S. organizations can be used to research employers and network for positions. Interview Stream Improve your interview skills by conducting a private, “practice interview” with a virtual interviewer. What Can I Do With This Major Whether you’re exploring majors or searching for information about your chosen field, this website will help you connect majors to careers. Learn about typical career areas and types of employers that hire people with each major, as well as strategies to make you a more marketable candidate.

6

Co-op & Internship Program

CO-OP COURSE (SUBJ-X49)

FIELD EXPERIENCE COURSE (SUBJ-X98 OR SUBJ-X97)

Work experience is at least 8 weeks and students enroll in Fall, Spring, and/or Summer terms

Students do major related work within the guidelines of their Academic Program

Courses are for academic credit

Students work in positions located on-campus, off campus, in-state, out of state, and internationally

Paid employment

Paid or unpaid experiences

32 hrs per week / 320+ hrs per term

Weekly hrs vary / 80+ hrs per term

Student status determined by enrolled credits

Full-time student status awarded

What is the cooperative education and internship program? The Cooperative Education and Internship Program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout integrates career related work experience with academic coursework. UW-Stout’s Cooperative Education and Internship Program is centrally coordinated through the Career Services Office in cooperation with the academic departments of the university. The Co-op and Internship program supports UW-Stout’s polytechnic designation by providing students the opportunity to experience an active and applied focus on learning in their professional field. The success of the Co-op and Internship program is based on a framework of collaborative partnerships between employers, students and the university. ProgramBenefits • Build your professional network • Apply your knowledge to a real world of work • Gain confidence in your skills and abilities • Build a stronger resume • Strengthen career readiness skills • Possible position in place before graduating ( many students receive a job offer from their employer How do I Find a Co-op and Internship Position? Use this guide and career services office to conduct an effective job search.

Evaluation ofWork Experiences Both the University and the On-site Supervisor evaluate the students’ performance while professor assigns grades. Long-Range Impact Co-op and internship professors must be included in all phases of planning and completing the work experience to ensure that program requirements are met. Lengthy or multiple experiences usually extend the time required to earn a four-year degree. The experience often provides a competitive edge in the job market. 33% of graduates to enroll in the Co-op and Internship Program accept a professional position with their co-op or internship employer. Co-op and Internship Partners • Currently more than 600 companies and agencies partner with the Co-op and Internship Program at UW-Stout. • Students may generate a position themselves with help from Career Services. Register at Career Services

COMPLETE ONLINE APPLICATION & OBTAIN FACULTY APPROVAL

MAKE IT OFFICIAL! WE WILL ENROLL YOU VIA ACCESS STOUT

COMPLETE ONLINE CO-OP & INTERNSHIP ORIENTATION

REPORT YOUR POSITION ON CO-OP & INTERNSHIP PORTAL

VERIFY POSITION DETAILS

7

Career Readiness

Are You Career Ready

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE); Employers want to hire talented college students and graduates who can demonstrate these skills, talents, and strengths. Mastering them will make you a competitive candidate for future employment.

CRITICAL THINKING Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information.

TECHNOLOGY Understand and leverage technologies ethically to enhance ef ciencies, complete tasks, and accomplish goals.

TEAMWORK Build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and shared responsibilities.

PROFESSIONALISM Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the larger community and workplace.

LEADERSHIP Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to achieve organizational goals.

COMMUNICATION Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives with persons inside and outside of an organization.

EQUITY & INCLUSION Demonstrate the awareness, attitude, knowledge, and skills required to equitably engage and include people from different local and global cultures. Engage in anti-racist practices that actively challenge the systems, structures, and policies of racism.

CAREER & SELF-DEVELOPMENT Proactively develop oneself and one’s career through continual personal and professional learning, awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses, navigation of career opportunities, and networking to build relationships within and without one’s organization.

Are You Career Ready? Professional Competency Self-Assessment Tool | Take this self-assessment to see what professional competencies you need to develop and practice to be career ready and experience workplace success.

Technology

Understand and leverage technologies ethically to enhance efficiencies, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling Ways to develop this competency: • Develop and deliver a presentation for a class. • Check for understanding by asking clarifying questions. • Proofread online and written communication to avoid errors. Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________

8

Career Readiness

Career Assessment

Career & Self-Development

Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives with persons inside and outside of an organization. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling Ways to develop this competency: • Develop and deliver a presentation for a class. • Check for understanding by asking clarifying questions. • Proofread online and written communication to avoid errors. Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Communication Teamwork Build and maintain collaborative relationships to work effectively toward common goals, while appreciating diverse viewpoints and shared responsibilities. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling Ways to develop this competency: • Collaborate with others on a class project where responsibility is shared and not divided. • Handle difficult conversations in person with respect. • Consider others’ perspectives before making a decision. Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Leadership Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to achieve organizational goals. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling Ways to develop this competency: • Take on a leadership role in a group or organization. • Demonstrate initiative at your job/internship by taking on additional responsibilities. • Motivate team members with a positive attitude and leverage their strengths when delegating work. Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Proactively develop oneself and one’s career through continual personal and professional learning, awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses, navigation of career opportunities, and networking to build relationships within and without one’s organization. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling Ways to develop this competency: • Develop and deliver a presentation for a class. • Check for understanding by asking clarifying questions. • Proofread online and written communication to avoid errors.

9

Career Readiness

Career Assessment

Critical Thinking

Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling

Ways to develop this competency: • Develop an action plan with specific steps to solve a problem. • Brainstorm solutions to a problem before bringing it to a supervisor/professor. • Activate your mind – read, do puzzles, write, etc. Goal for developing this competency:

______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________

Professionalism Knowing work environments differ greatly, understand and demonstrate effective work habits, and act in the interest of the larger community and workplace. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling

Ways to develop this competency: • Use a planner or calendar to prioritize work/assignments and meet deadlines. • Reflect on a recent challenge and identify areas of growth and improvement for the future. • Review your social media through the eyes of a future employer and determine appropriateness.

Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Equity & Inclusion Demonstrate the awareness, attitude, knowledge, and skills required to equitably engage and include people from different local and global cultures. Engage in anti-racist practices that actively challenge the systems, structures, and policies of racism. Need to Develop Currently Developing Excelling

Ways to develop this competency: • Attend an event on campus that encourages you to step outside your comfort zone. • Engage in conversation with individuals who have different perspectives than your own. • Participate in a study abroad or volunteer experience to broaden your horizons.

Goal for developing this competency: ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________

10

Career Readiness

Career Development Stages

PREPARE YOURSELF

EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS

Continue to explore career options. Job shadow and/or conduct informational interviews with professionals in a career field of interest. Take an active role in a student organization to develop your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. A end career related events on campus. Develop your 30-second commercial, and try it out at the Career Conferences. Create a strong, online professional image using LinkedIn . Explore options for global experiences: study a foreign language, study abroad, investigate Co-op or internship abroad identified through GoinGlobal. Meet with your ProgramDirector or other faculty to discuss career options with your major. Enhance your resume writing skills using Jobscan to customize toward a position. Begin to define educational goals and research colleges with Petersons.com GRADUATE SCHOOL BOUND: USE THIS STAGE TO STRATEGIZE AND DEVELOP LEADERSHIP SKILLS AND FIND OPPORTUNITIES TO ENHANCE YOUR RESUME.

THE EMPHASIS IN THIS STAGE IS ON CAREER EXPLORATION AND RESUME WRITING.

A end Career Services events such as: Career Conferences, expos, and employer presentations to explore possible career opportunities. Get involved and begin networking. Join campus clubs/organizations related to your major. Volunteer in the community or get a part time job. Learn about the Co-op and Internship Programby visiting the Career Services o ice and/or website. Activate your Handshake account to begin learning about opportunities and accessing additional resources. ReviewAnnual Co-op and Employment reports for salary and employment information on your major. Explore and research careers utilizing an online resource such as O*NET Online.

Use the Employment Guide and online resources to develop your resume.

SUCCESS STEP:

Meet with your Career Counselor to update and polish your resume as well as gain information on interviewing and searching for Co-ops and internships. SUCCESS STEP:

Meet with your Career Counselor to discuss career options within your major and learn the basics of resume writing.

11

Career Readiness

PURSUE YOUR CAREER

GAIN EXPERIENCE

FINALLY, THIS STAGE WILL BE USED TO TRANSITION INTO YOUR NEXT STEP AS A UW-STOUT ALUMNI.

USE THIS STAGE TO PUT YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES INTO PRACTICE

Develop your professional network by interfacing with employers and alumni at Career Conferences, Government Non-Profit Expo, and other networking events. Investigate and pursue Co-op or internship experience to spring board your professional career. Continue fine tuning your resume and dra a cover le er to have reviewed in Career Services. Sign up for on campus interviews and explore opportunities through Handshake. Ask professors, employers, and co-op and Internship supervisors to provide le ers of recommendation or to serve as a professional reference. Get career advice by viewing LinkedIn Learning videos located on the Career Services webpage. Stay involved on campus with student employment and/or organizations, if possible assume a leadership role. Practice interviewing with our mock interview program, InterviewStream , found on Handshake .

Review and update your resume with your Career Counselor. Use ReferenceUSA to identify and research employers to target for your job search. A end a “Negotiating a Job O er” workshop at Career Services. Networkwith professionals in your targeted industry via Career Conferences, LinkedIn or networking groups in the community. Use LinkedIn to connect with individuals, professionals organizations, companies, or alumni who are employed by the organizations you are applying to. Set up profiles and job alerts in job search engines andmonitor daily for newpostings. Actively apply for positions of interesting using Handshake , LinkedIn Jobs, and other online resources. Let us knowhowyou are doing by completing the Employment/Continuing Education survey. Complete graduate school applications in the fall andweigh your options in the spring. GRADUATE SCHOOL BOUND:

Meet with your Career Counselor for ongoing support as you transition into a professional. SUCCESS STEP:

SUCCESS STEP:

Meet with your Career Counselor for advice on how to translate your experiences, coursework, projects, and research.

12

Job Search Documents

Co-op, Internship & Job Search Checklist We’re sure you’ve heard that job searching is harder now than ever, but keep in mind that there’s never, at any time, been a situation where a person clicks on a website, applies and just gets the first job. Job searching requires a lot of work and effort. Follow these steps to make the best use of your time and effort.

Step 1: Develop an effective resume and cover letter Review resume and cover letter writing materials found in this Employment Guide or on our website. Have your resume and cover letter critiqued by a career counselor. STEP 2: Upload your resume on Handshake Handshake.uwstout.edu STEP 3: Network for co-ops, internships and professional careers Let family, relatives, and friends know that you are looking for Attend career conferences to network with employers you met at previous conferences and to find “hidden” opportunities. Contact employers you’ve met through open houses, student organizations, and previous work experience. Join LinkedIn and other professional social networking sites. Review Handshake for employer contact information. Contact Stout Alumni in your major. a co-op, internship, or professional position. Let faculty and staff know that you are looking. Conduct informational interviews. See “Informational Interviewing” in this guide or the “Networking” or “Professional Positions” sections on our website. Join Professional Associations related to your major. For additional information, review the “Networking” section on our website. STEP 4: Pursue advertised Co-ops, Internship & Professional positions Check Handshake for: • On-campus interview schedule • Co-op, internship, or job posting. • GoinGlobal • Reference USA and more Check “Co-op and Internship Resources” and “Professional Positions” in the student section on the Career Services Website to find:

• Career Conferences (Also see the list of Career Fairs around the region you can attend.) • Federal, state, local job or co-op and internship opportunities • Education majors: job search resources • Veterans and other military affiliated • Diverse student resources (for multicultural, international, LGBTQIA+ and other diverse students) Check the following “spidering” job search engines: • Indeed.com • LinkedIn jobs STEP 5: “Prospect” for Co-ops, Internships, & Professional Positions in Desired Geographic Areas See “Prospecting” job search method in this guide or in the “Networking” and “Professional Positions”sections on our website. Use “ReferenceUSA” to identify organizations you would like to prospect within a desired geographic area. ReferenceUSA is a web based organization research tool available on Handshake. STEP 6: Prepare for interviews Review interviewing skills information in this guide or the Interviewing section of our website. Complete a mock interview with a counselor in Career Services or virtually using “InterviewStream.” Research the organization and position via their website or ReferenceUSA. See “Researching Employers for Successful Interviews” in this guide. Know your worth; review salary information found on page 54. STEP 7: Evaluate the interview and follow up Send a thank you letter and follow up with employers you interview with. See “Cover Letters and other Job Search Letters” in this guide or on our website for examples. Review “Offers and Negotiations” in this guide and on our website to learn about benefits, salary and more!

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Resume Writing A well-written resume is one of your most valuable tools in a job search. Its purpose is to win you an interview. It does this by summarizing your education, work experience, and other qualifications to show the employer that you have what it takes to be successful in the position. You should consider developing three versions of your resume: A Print Version - designed with bulleted lists, italicized text, and other highlights, ready to print, mail, or hand to potential contacts and interviewers. A Plain Text Version - a plain text file ready to copy and paste into online forms, post in online resume databases, and submit to employers using “Applicant Tracking”software. An E-mail Version - attached as a PDF. Sometimes Word documents do no export into original formatting , so locking formatting in place via a PDF document is recommended. Create original resumes in Word, but when complete, save and send in PDF. Plan and Prepare • Schedule an appointment with a Career Services counselor to assist you. • Review resume writing resources found on the Career Services website or the Writing Center. • Make a list of all your work, education, student organizations, athletics, volunteer activities, honors, awards, hobbies, military experience, etc. Identify the responsibilities,accomplishments, and skills developed as appropriate for each of these activities. • Determine the position(s) you will target. • Identify the skills, knowledge, and qualities needed for the position(s). From your work, education, and extracurricular history, identify the skills, knowledge, and qualities that are transferable to the position(s) you are targeting. • Make your resume easy to read. It should be symmetrical, balanced and uncrowded. Use appropriate white space between sections. Keep writing in sections to short bulleted statements. Be uniform and consistent. For example: If a period is at the end of one job description statement, a period should be at the end of all description statements; if a job title is in boldface, all job titles should be in boldface. • Use action words such as “supervised”,“managed”, or “directed” instead of passive phrases like “responsible for” or “duties” included” (See “Action Verbs”on pg. 22). • Use keywords that an employer may search for if they scan your resume electronically For instance, “SQL Database Programmer”is generally easier to find in a database

than“Designed and implemented departmental database” or “Manager for Windows engineers, Microsoft Corp” instead of “Responsible for a team of ‘cutting edge’ computer engineers” (see job descriptions or ONET (Occupational Information Network http://online.onetcenter.org for keywords for your occupation). • For your Word Document version use italics, capital letters, bullets, boldface, and underlining for visual appeal and emphasis. • Review the sample resumes in this guide or on our website. • Determine which format (chronological, functional or combination) best suits you and your career path. • Current students and recent college grads should limit their resume to one page. Talk to your counselor for exceptions. • Absolutely no errors. No typographical errors. No spelling errors. No grammar, syntax, or punctuation errors (pay particular attention to use the correct past and present tense). No errors of fact. • Reproduce your resume on quality paper with a high-quality copier, laser printer, or printing service. • Prepare a cover letter to accompany your resume (See “Job Search Letters” in this Guide or on our website.)

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Resume Writing

Sample Components of a Resume Contact Information At the very top of your resume you should have your name, phone number (record a neutral greeting on your voicemail greeting), and email address. Adding your physical address is optional. Utilize your permanent or current address. Professional Objective or Statement Briefly describe the type of position you seek and the two or three qualities, abilities, or achievements that make you stand out for the position. Focus on the employer’s needs, not yours. Employers prefer candidates who are realistic, focused, and directed. Summary of Qualifications The “Summary” or “Summary of Qualifications” can be at the top of the resume below your Contact Information. It consists of several concise statements (can be bulleted for easier reading) that focus the reader’s attention on the most important job related qualities, achievements and abilities you have to offer. Those qualities should be the most compelling demonstrations of why they should hire you instead of other candidates. What would make someone the ideal candidate? Look at the job description for the qualities the employer will care about most. This may be the only section fully read by the employer, so it should be exceedingly strong and convincing to entice the employer to keep reading. Educational Information List most recent educational institutions you have graduated from or expect to graduate from first. Indicate your degree, major, minor, and concentrations as well as your date of graduation. Cumulative GPA or GPA in your major is recommended if over a 3.00. Academic honors and other recognition should be included. Teaching candidates should include their area(s) of certification. Relevant Courses/Class Projects List selected courses that will help convince the reader of your qualification for the job you are seeking. List 4-6 relevant classes that relate to the position. Course projects can be added as supporting evidence of your related skills.

Experience List significant experiences related to the position. This typically includes past employment and can also include military service, co-op, and internship positions and significant volunteer roles. List your experiences in reverse chronological order or in order of relevance to your work objective. Briefly list your position title, company or organization, city/state, dates of employment, responsibilities, accomplishments, and skills. For every skill, accomplishment, or responsibility described, use the most impressive power verb you can think of (which is also accurate). Use the language of your profession. Teachers and counselors should include student teaching, internship and practicum experiences. Honors/Professional Development Indicate your awards, involvement in student professional and non-professional organizations, volunteer activities, athletics, and other school and non-school related activities. High school activities may be included if you are a freshman or sophomore seeking a co-ops, internships, or other experiential learning opportunity. Leadership Leadership is a valuable skill sought after by all employers. List any leadership roles you’ve had or experiences you’ve participated in while in college.

Skills Include a list of your computer, technical, laboratory and/or language skills, relational and collaborative.

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Recommended users: Those with little or no industry experience A Format to Present Experience and Education in Reverse Chronological Order Sample Chronological Resume

Student Name

Studentemail@my.uwstout.edu

.

123 Engineering Way, Menomonie, WI 54751

(715)111-1111

OBJECTIVE To obtain a co-op/internship in mechanical engineering for Summer 202 3 EDUCATION University of Wisconsin-Stout, Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University, Menomonie, WI Bachelor of Science Degree

Grad: May 202 5

Major: Mechanical Engineering Minor: Supply Chain Management RELEVANT COURSEWORK Impacts of Engineering EXPERIENCE Production Worker B&S Manufacturing, Menomonie, WI Quality Tools

GPA: 3.73 Dean’s List

Dynamics

Statics Calculus

Principles of Logistics

Summer 20 22 • Developed mechanical equipment skills and manufacturing experience through production of commercial HVAC equipment • Increased analytical skills by troubleshooting and repairing production machinery • Strengthened communication skills by working in teams of 40 people per shift Sales Associate Festival Foods, Eau Claire, WI Summer 20 21 • Developed strong work ethic by working up to 20 hours/week while attending school • Displayed outstanding customer service by assisting up to 100 customers per shift • Delivered fast-paced results to customers and managers without sacrificing quality INVOLVEMENT Member American Society of Mechanical Engineers Member Society of Automotive Engineers, Baja Chapter Sports Official – Intramural Basketball UW-Stout University Recreation Sept 20 22 - Present Sept 20 22 - Present Sept 20 22 - Dec 20 22

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Recommended users: Those with some industry experience A format to present experience & education in reverse chronological order Sample Beginning Combination Resume

Student Name 715.123.1234 | student.email@my.uwstout.edu | 1234 Second Street, Menomonie, WI 54751

OBJECTIVE To obtain an internship in the computer networking field for Summer 202 3

EDUCATION University of Wisconsin - Stout, Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University, Menomonie, WI Bachelor of Science in Computer and Networking Information Technology | May 202 3 Concentration: Cyber Security | Minor: Information & Communication Technology GPA: 3.85, Chancellors Award for Academic Excellence Spring 202 2

Information Technology – Networking Specialist | Fall 2018 Chippewa Valley Technical College, Eau Claire, WI

INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE Cross-Cultural Communication, China | January 20 21 • Visited the cities of Beijing, Hangzhou, and Shanghai to observe and compare cyber security issues

TECHNICAL SKILLS • Linux

• CCNA Routing & Switching

• CCNA Cyber Ops • PC & MAC

• Network & Security

RELEVANT COURSEWORK • Network Systems Design

• Cloud Computing Design, Imp., & Security

• Enterprise Solutions & Unified Communications

WORK EXPERIENCE Culver’s, Menomonie, WI

August 20 21 -Present

Shift Lead • Perform managerial functions, such as opening and closing restaurant, making deposits, counting down drawers and crew member performance evaluations • Trained four new cashiers on cash register machines and customer service protocols Cashier • Provided excellent customer services while handling an average of $1,500 worth cash and credit card transactions per shift • Worked with a team to cover a variety of roles and shifts throughout the store Festival Foods, Eau Claire, WI March 201 9 -August 20 21

CAMPUS AND PROFESSIONAL INVOLVMENT Women in Technology & Security (WITS), UW-Stout

January 202 1 - Present

Member • Participate in weekly meetings and professional development events • Volunteer in local community organization Feed My People

September 20 20 -Present

Ski and Snowboard Club, UW-Stout

Member

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Job Search Documents

Recommended users: Those with industry experience A format to group relevant professional experiences and skills Focused on marketing to a specific position or field Sample Advanced Combination Resume

Student Name 123 Street, Menomonie, WI Ph. XXX-XXX-XXXX XXXXXXXX@my.uwstout.edu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourname/ Computer and Electrical Engineer Motivated May 2021 graduate seeking an engineering position with a focus on programming of electrical systems and the utilization of advanced skills in analysis and design of both hardware and software systems SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS • Strong electrical aptitude and problem-solving skills proven in applied learning projects and hobbies • Effective communication skills (verbal and written; including presentations) • Proven skills in object-oriented programming in C++, JavaScript, and Python • Ability to manage multiple and changing priorities while balancing academics and employment (20+ hours per week) • Proven ability to excel in cross functional teams both in the workplace and classroom EDUCATION University of Wisconsin-Stout, Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University, Menomonie, WI May 202 3 Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Electrical Engineering GPA 3.584 *Dean’s List (3-time recipient) * TECHNICAL SKILLS • C++ • Testing Design • Microsoft Office Suite • Project Management • JavaScript • Troubleshooting • SolidWorks • Database Design • Python • Mechanical Aptitude • Team Engineering Experience • PTO Systems ENGINEERING EXPERIENCE Electrical Engineer Intern, Technology Service Corporation, Bloomington, MN January 20 22 – August 20 22 • Implemented new Smart Electrical System to existing design and created wire lists for schematics for electrical technicians • Analyzed electrical infrastructure, including switch-gear, motor control centers, panel-boards, and circuit breakers • Conducted analysis of integrating the engine’s electrical system with the drill rig’s system and assisted with new design plans • Assisted Engineers in developing engineering solutions and responses to requests raised by Production, Projects, Commissioning Group, Quality Assurance & Supply Chain teams • Conducted general research, data tracking systems and filing systems • Prepared preliminary reports to showcase condition of existing electrical equipment and researched electrical equipment options, provided suggestions for product improvements. Character Inventory Project, Data Structures (C++), UW-Stout, Menomonie, WI November 20 21 • Worked with partner to create a character class inventory which held items from campus wide C++ instruction • Used data structures (Linked Lists, Doubly Linked Lists, & Arrays) to create object lists while noting performance and space • Performed operations on the inventory list using member functions of the Character class • Used pointers to “equip” items while the original object remained in an inventory list • Utilized breakpoints and online resources to debug and improve the code • Commented around functions and variables to create effective documentation within the project Accessibility Project, Impacts of Engineering, UW-Stout January 20 20 - May 202 0 • Worked in a team of four to research and brainstorm solutions to pouring cup of water for individuals with restricted mobility • Designed a prototype using a food safe pump and various Arduino peripherals to pour precise amounts of water • Developed a system using 12V DC power to run both an Arduino unit and a 12V pump • Tested prototype, noted issues with quality, refined, and reworked components to produce an improved prototype • Presented prototype in the UW-Stout STEMM Expo to groups of peers, faculty, and community members • Created documentation of project details, diagrams, along with potential product improvements PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Vice President (2019-2020), Treasurer (2018-2019), IEEE, UW-Stout Chapter Fall 20 20 - Present Attendee, IEEE Rising Stars Conference, Las Vegas, NV January 2020 Volunteer, UW-Stout Career Conference March 2019 Student Representative, Computer and Electrical Engineering Program Advisory Committee September 2018 - May 2019 ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE

Office Assistant, UW-Stout Dining Services, Menomonie, WI Team Member, Kwik Trip, Baldwin and Menomonie, WI Laborer, Feed and Farm Supply, Plum City, WI

September 2020 - Present September 201 8 - September 2020 (Seasonal) June 201 8 – Present

Willing to Relocate

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