Paul’s thoughts:

My name is Paul Santamore and I graduated from UMF in 2014. Currently, I work at the University of Southern Maine in the Office of Community Engagement and Career Development on the Portland campus. I am a graduate assistant in the office and I work with students on their resumes, cover letters, interview skills, and on finding internships and jobs for them too. On top of that, I also manage an internship program called “Canis Major”, which matches high quality USM students in STEM majors with local companies. I got this job through my graduate program in counseling here at USM.

In terms of career advice for recent or impending graduates, I would say that first and foremost, they need to be prepared for the job market that they are entering upon graduation. Having a resume prepared, nice clothes pressed and cleaned, and a firm handshake can go a long way toward getting them their first “big kid” job. Another suggestion that I have for these students would be to network. When I say network, I don’t necessarily mean going to big events or galas. I mean networking through brief conversations, short meet-n-greets, or family and friends. Making connections is key! If you apply to a company and know someone who is there already that can provide an informal or formal reference on your character and qualifications, you have a better shot at getting that job as opposed to going in “cold”.

Best of luck to all of you recent or soon to be graduates. Stay positive, be prepared, and be willing to work hard.