Three tips from MetLife for college students seeking career opportunities amid the pandemic

By Sara Jackson, MetLife MTU Project Management Intern, Global Technology Services   

1. Start the leg work early. While finding a job or internship during a pandemic may be challenging, don’t give up – and don’t wait for things to “return to normal.” This is surely an unprecedented time, but it’s also an opportunity to demonstrate to your potential employer that you can be adaptable. Capitalize on this new, all-digital reality to expand your LinkedIn network. Use your spare time to prepare your resume, leverage helpful resources from your college career center, or learn a new skill. Even though the job market may look a bit different, now is the time to take chances and set yourself up for success.
2. Be open to new experiences. Thinking outside the box is important right now – particularly when it comes to your career track; in fact, a new MetLife survey found that 1 in 4 (27%) Gen Z women have considered making a career change since the pandemic hit. That said, it’s important to do your research – whether it’s looking for job postings at companies that may not seem traditional or speaking to professionals from different industries – to explore what opportunities excite you and how you can get there. Take it from me: I knew I wanted a career in tech, so I learned how to code; it taught me how to plan and think critically, which ultimately proved vital to landing my tech-focused internship at MetLife. Not only will these new skills and experiences help you stretch your brain in ways you never thought possible, but they can also open the door to new opportunities and differentiate you from a pool of hundreds or even thousands of other qualified candidates.
3. Prioritize the values that matter to you. While it’s important to identify the qualities that make you stand out as a candidate, it’s also pivotal to consider what makes this company and position unique. Does the company uphold the same values as you? Does it prioritize diversity, both in rhetoric and in practice? I frequently evaluate would-be employers by whether they have women in leadership positions, or whether they offer opportunities for mentorship. Doing this makes my decision to take on a given role much easier. When it comes to choosing a job or an internship, always trust your gut.