Jessica Godek

Describe your job search process. 

I kept my job search focused on companies recruiting from FSU’s Career Center & the FSU Sales Institute. While I had a lot of options and opportunities in front of me, the biggest thing I learned from the job search experience was to understand not just the entry-level role available, but the career path. After college, I was offered a job. However, my next job ended up opening a true career for me, with unlimited potential for  growth.

If you used any Career Center services, resources, or events to obtain your job offer, what were they? How did they support your application process?

I had a lot of success through attending Seminole Futures Career Fairs. After getting my resume reviewed by The Career Center, I started going to the Seminole Futures as a sophomore. This allowed me to get my nerves out without the pressure of needing to find an internship immediately, so when I returned as a junior, I was confident and prepared to use the relationships I built.

Have you participated in any experiential learning opportunities?

When interviewing with companies, every  organization asked about leadership experience. They were more focused on the quality of the leadership experience than they were in  involvement in an club or activity. Additionally, previous work and internship experience was important to discuss because it shows a variety of skills and experiences that are likely transferable across industries.

What advice do you have for current students that will be launching a full-time professional job search?

Network, be open to all opportunities, and make sure there is a career path that you are interested in pursuing beyond just the entry-level role. Try to find a Seminole that works for the company (LinkedIn is a great resource) and ask to learn from their experience with that company. Take all interview opportunities available, even if it isn't your "dream" job because you may not even know some of the positions that exist. Lastly, confirm with the company that there is are future promotional opportunities if that is important to you, so you can be confident in making a long-term decision. But if your first role didn't pan out how you wanted it to be, you are not stuck there forever. I was able to find my current career through reaching back out to a former professor of mine (Shout out to Dr. Luke Hopkins!) and have enjoyed my job ever since!