Four Year Plan
Vassar College has an array of opportunities to support you in achieving a well-rounded education. The following suggestions are designed to assist you in maximizing your college experience to ensure career satisfaction.
Hiring Timelines by Industry
Have you ever wondered when to start looking for jobs or internships in the industries you’re considering? Follow our guidelines below for what to expect!
* “Just in time” hiring also happens year-round in most industries!
Download an accessible text version of the “Hiring Timelines by Industry” graphic.
First Year: Transition, Exploration and Discovery
- Get involved in campus activities and organizations
- Familiarize yourself with the resources of the various offices and departments on campus
- Set up contact with the Center for Career Education (CCE)
- Get to know your Handshake account—it can be used to schedule appointments at the CCE, to plan for interviews and events, and to find jobs/internships
- Identify your interests, skills, and values as they are all important in life and in your career
- Begin/update your resume
- Plan for the summer
Sophomore Year: Academic Decisions, Hands-On Exploration, and Involvement
- Continue to explore the wealth of information the many offices and departments on campus offer
- Declare your major
- Consider Study Away options
- Network with family, friends, and colleagues
- Plan for internships, jobs, and other experiential opportunities
- Become a leader—step up in the organizations and clubs you are a part of
Junior Year: Research, Experience, and Strategizing
- Pursue an internship in your field of interest
- Consider graduate school and the related testing
- Solidify relationships with faculty, supervisors, and others who have influenced you
- Attend workshops and presentations that might further your goals
- Seek out employers who are attractive to you and scout opportunities
- Request references from professors and employers
- Reach out to alums in relevant fields through our extensive Alum Directory
Senior Year: Planning, Graduating, and Transitioning
- Keep exploring your options
- Continue to attend workshops (some are senior-specific!) and other development opportunities
- Prepare and take tests for graduate work (i.e., GRE, LSAT, MCAT)
- Polish your resume—assure that it is up-to-date and accurate
- Continue to network