As you walk across the stage, your family claps and friends cheer but you can’t stop thinking “what’s next?”

Convocation is right around the corner, and the next step may present a problem for many graduating students. Even if you’re not walking across the stage, you may be dreading the search for a summer job.

However, now is the time to dust off the resume and begin applying, as many places hire sooner rather than later. While it may seem like a daunting task, there are lots of ways to make you look employable to potential employers.

Pamela Crawshaw, supervisor for the Lethbridge College (LC) career centre, says it is important to make a connection with those looking to hire.

“Your goal as an applicant is to show a connection between what the employer seeks and what it is you offer. Research the employer and their positions to understand their needs and ensure that you address as many of them as you can in your resume, cover letter, portfolio and interview responses. When you are networking, have a brief ‘commercial’ for yourself that you can use to introduce yourself to people in your field,” says Crawshaw.

While finding a job in your field can be a new and challenging task it is important to remember there are tons of places to look. Whether it’s a jobsite, an association related to your field or websites of specific companies or organizations you’re interested in, it never hurts to give a call or send an email to inquire.

If you’re feeling bleak about the future, remember there is hope for all grads. A recent study by Economic Modeling Specialists International found LC and its graduates contribute a significant amount to our city. LC and its students add nearly half a billion dollars to the local economy, as well as contributing to the province and country as a whole.

So as you spruce up your resume and cover letter, remember help is out there. Stop by the career centre and book an appointment or look up information online. You could help make that half a billion jump to the next level