City Of Chicago Career - Chicago is a city filled with opportunities for anyone looking to build a successful career. From job fairs and hiring events to paid internships and career training, there are plenty of features and benefits to take advantage of. In this article, we'll explore some of the top ways to kickstart your career in the windy city with a focus on education, networking, and experience building.
Career Building Features and Benefits Associated with Paid Internship
Boost Your Resume with Practical Experience
Internships are an excellent way to get a taste of the industry you're interested in and build practical skills outside the classroom. Unlike a traditional job, internships are designed to teach you, and they often come with mentorship and training programs.
By taking a paid internship, you'll not only be gaining valuable work experience but also contributing to your living expenses. Employers know that internships are competitive, so being selected for one shows that you're a motivated, talented individual committed to your career.
Networking with Experts in Your Industry
Another significant benefit of internships is the opportunity to network with seasoned professionals in your field. Attending meetings, conventions or other functions can help you research and open doors to new career opportunities. Additionally, being on the employer's radar helps you learn and understand how to communicate, make connections, and build professional relationships.
Chicago Job Fairs, Hiring Events - Best Hire Career Fairs
Connecting with Employers, Recruiters and Fellow Job-Seekers
Attending job fairs and hiring events are one of the best ways to expand your professional network and meet with potential employers face-to-face. You'll have the opportunity to introduce yourself, hand out your resume, and ask questions about current and upcoming positions. The benefit of attending job fairs over online applications is the opportunity to showcase what makes you unique. You can receive on-the-spot interviews for available positions, meet with recruiters to better understand the job market of your field, and learn about new companies and positions that you may not have previously considered.
Research Before You Go
Prior to your event, research attending employers and read about their mission, current market trends, products and services. Dress for the job and practice your communication skills conveying why you can help them fill a necessary role. Equally important is following up with your new connections within 24 hours to keep the connection fresh on their minds.
Graham Foundation
Building Your Career with the Association of Architecture Organizations
If you're interested in architecture or design, partnering with the Association of Architecture Organizations is your best bet. Their mission is to support and enable organizations that promote the value of architecture and design through funding awards and initiatives. The Association connects individuals interested in architecture and design through regular events and workshops, providing mentorship at all stages of a design career.
Benefits to Becoming a Graham Foundation Fellow
The Graham Foundation distributes Chicago native architects with travel grants and maintains a grant program for research and production in the fields of architecture and other related artistic practices. As an aspiring artist or architect, you may submit your works to Graham Foundation to be considered for a fellowship or grant award. This aid includes research costs, project expenses, and travel expenses to attend architecture conventions and to meet with experts of the field. By becoming a fellow, you'll have the unique opportunity to explore your field in-depth while gaining valuable insight and experience.
InterExchange - City Guide: Chicago
How to Find and Get Hired for a Job in Chicago
InterExchange offers a unique guide to Chicago, created especially for those looking to get a job in the city. The guide features tips and advice on how to find local companies, attend job fairs and seminars, and network effectively on social media. The guide also offers suggestions on where to live, eat, and explore in the city.
Top Ideas for Landing Your Dream Job
When seeking a job or building a career, there are certain steps you can take to increase your chances of success:
- Polish Your Resume and Cover Letter - Make sure your resume is up-to-date, and your cover letter highlights your skills and how they will directly apply to the job you're interested in
- Expand Your Network - Attend events like job fairs, seminars, and conventions to meet other professionals in your field and build your professional network
- Utilize Your Alumni Network - Connect with former classmates, alumni groups, mentors, and other career-focused communities to learn about industries and job prospects you might not have considered before.
- Research the Company and Industry - Thoroughly research the company and industry before you apply or interview, and find ways to connect with people who work there to show that you've done your homework and are motivated.
- Be Confident and Assertive- Believe in yourself, and make sure to convey your excitement and skills during interviews and networking events.
Chicago City Colleges Career Training
10 Focus Areas for a Successful Career in Chicago
The City Colleges of Chicago offer ten different focus areas to help students develop the necessary experience and skills for a successful career. These careers include roles in growth industries such as healthcare, business, manufacturing, and transportation. Their focus areas are:
- Healthcare
- Business
- Computer Information Systems
- Culinary & Hospitality
- Education
- Manufacturing, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
- Public Services
- Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (TDL)
- Visual & Performing Arts
- World Languages & Cultures
Why Choose City Colleges of Chicago?
The City Colleges of Chicago offer affordable tuition, flexible scheduling, and a commitment to helping students secure satisfactory employment upon graduation. Their courses and programs are hands-on, including opportunities for internships, job shadowing, and practical experience-building activities. The City Colleges of Chicago have relationships with hundreds of employers in the city, making it easier for students to land a job after graduation.
So there you have it, a few of the many career building features and benefits offered in Chicago. Whether you're considering a paid internship or career-focused training at City Colleges of Chicago, you have plenty of options to choose from. Take the time to research and explore all of your options, and you'll be well on your way to a fulfilling and successful career in the Windy City!
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