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FAQs - For Seniors

  As you move towards the end of your time at Pitzer, we recognize that you will begin trying to figure out life after graduation. To help you begin, we answered some of the most frequently asked questions.

What can I do with a Pitzer degree? Who wants to hire a liberal arts major?
Can I talk with Pitzer Alumni who are out in the "real world?"
I’m just starting to think about the job search and I don’t know what I want to do.
I’ve heard about employers interviewing on campus. What is this program?
I’ve always received my jobs without a formal interview. What should I expect from a first time full-time job interview?
I need help with writing a resume?
I’m thinking about graduate or professional school but not sure how to start.
Can I still do an internship after I graduate?

What can I do with a Pitzer degree? Who wants to hire a liberal arts major?
As you may know, no single career field relates to your major. Depending upon your interests and experience, your options are endless. A look at some of the jobs and careers that Pitzer alumni have chosen over the years show that your liberal arts degree can take you in almost any direction. Make an appointment for an individual meeting with a Career Services counselor who can get you started with the career exploration process.

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Can I talk with Pitzer Alumni who are out in the "real world?"
Yes, almost 500 Pitzer graduates have signed up to be “Career Advisors.” You can search for alumni in many career fields who live in different regions of the U.S. and in various countries. Sign onto your Pitzer student account and click Alumni Career Connections to get started.

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I’m just starting to think about the job search and I don’t know what I want to do.
Regardless of your career interests, we recommend using many strategies in your job search including both online resources and networking. Did you know, for example, that there are hundreds of industry targeted websites and that only 15-20% of all job openings are publicized? Come in and speak with a counselor who can help you start the process and learn how to explore different career fields. Also, check out VAULT, an online guide that provides comprehensive industry, employer, and general career information. Free to currently enrolled Pitzer students.

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I’ve heard about employers interviewing on campus. What is this program?
Representatives from various industries (including business, education, nonprofit, social services, and more) will interview graduating seniors through the Claremont College On-Campus Recruiting Program. To participate in this program you must attend an orientation session to register for InterviewTRAK. Once signed up, you may keep up to date with the latest employers scheduled to visit. View a complete list of last year's recruiters. For additional information, please contact Teresa Flores.

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I’ve always received my jobs without a formal interview. What should I expect from a first time full-time job interview?
“Tell me about yourself.” “What is unique about you?” “What do you expect your first year on the job to be like?” These are just some of the questions that can be asked of you in an interview. The best way to prepare is to become familiar with the interviewing process and to practice. The best way to prepare is to practice. Begin by reviewing our Interviewing Handout.

Next, schedule an appointment to conduct a mock interview with a counselor. We recommend that you refrain from using a real job interview for practice since you probably will not receive feedback about your performance.

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I need help with writing a resume?
Don’t rely on a Microsoft template. If you need assistance with writing or revising your resume, pick up a resume writing guide from our office or check out our Resume Handout. Once you have a draft, come in and have it critiqued by a counselor. Since science-related experiences are listed in a unique way, students should review the Science Resume Handout

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I’m thinking about graduate or professional school but not sure how to start.
Approximately 25% of Pitzer graduates accept admission to graduate school for the fall semester following graduation. If you are still thinking about (or have decided to explore) graduate school, start with our resource library to review general program, application, and financial aid information. You may also obtain standardized test applications from our office. View our Graduate School Handout.

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Can I still do an internship after I graduate?
Depending upon your interests, certain organizations will hire graduates but usually within the first 6 months of graduation. View our Internship Handout.