How do you turn a part-time job into an internship or a full-time position?  Most employers are seeking experience alongside a degree, and part-time jobs and internships put students in a much better position when it comes to finding a job at graduation.

Students need to be able to showcase skills and experience in order to distinguish themselves from other applicants. To help students learn how to do so, the Career Center is hosting its first-ever Cashing in on a Part-time Job on Wednesday, January 24 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Vrooman Center, Escalante Room.

“Internships and part-time jobs allow students to utilize their skills, gain experience, and show employers how they perform in the workplace,” states Career Center Internship Manager Debbie Ungson-Walbert. “In many cases, internships and part-time positions have turned into full-time employment.”

During this event, employers will share how to highlight transferable skills acquired from part-time jobs, “cash-in” and turn part-time jobs into internships to full-time employment opportunities.  Students will have an opportunity to learn why employers value part-time jobs and how practical work experience can enhance job opportunities.  Employers will also share tips on how to highlight part-time jobs on a resume.  In addition, students will be able to connect with a variety of participating employers looking to hire for part-time positions within their organizations.

“Students tend to under estimate the value of their part-time work experience.  They do not necessarily realize they learn many transferable skills such as interpersonal communications, time management, and organizational skills. Often times, they have to work directly with people so they also learn how to function within a team setting,” states Ungson-Walbert. “I always tell students that if they know how to gracefully handle customers, then they already possess one valuable professional skill that would serve them well – no matter what career they choose to pursue in the future.”

Registration for this event is required through Hire-A-Redbird or by contacting the Career Center.

The Career Center supports Illinois State University’s Educating Illinois by assisting students with developing, evaluating and/or implementing career, education and employment decisions.