Professional Development Recommendations
Students are encouraged to create a professional development plan and intentionally incorporate career exploration and development into their time at UC San Diego. Below are tips based on academic year.
1st Year (Freshmen)
- Get involved with one of the preprofessional student organizations (TREO, YPS, ARCH, etc).
- Create and update a LinkedIn profile and connect with your instructors, guest speakers, and classmates.
- Add the USP Department LinkedIn page to your education in addition to UC San Diego.
- Start learning about career opportunities related to your area of study including career paths, resources, job titles, post-bachelor's education, and potential employers.
Sophomores & Juniors (Including Junior Transfers)
- Create your resume and meet with the Career Center and Jennifer to review it.
- Need a resume template and tips? Request one with this form. Be sure to list relevant course projects!
- Start thinking about internships: What kind of internships are you interested in? What companies/organizations are you interested in? Where can you fit this in your schedule? Try to complete one internship during your junior year or summer before senior year.
- Conduct informational interviews to help you answer career questions you may have and learn about career paths.
Seniors
- Complete an internship during your final academic year if possible.
- Get involved with professional associations such as NAIOP, APA, ULI, CREW for the education, networking, and mentoring opportunities.
- Participate in a mentorship program. Utilize the mentoring programs NAIOP and SDAPA offer or connect with a mentor through Tritons Connect or with a Triton alum via LinkedIn.
- Polish your application materials and create your job search plan if looking for full-time employment after you graduate. Meet with Jennifer to discuss this or attend one of her workshops. Aim to start applying to positions 2-3 months before you will graduate.