Step 1: Dress Professionally

• Business Professional

• Neat, clean, simple — no overly flashy outfits or accessories.

• Tip: You’re representing yourself, our school, and ALPFA CCNY.

Step 2: Be Polite and Engaged

• Greet everyone you meet with a smile and firm handshake.

• Listen actively during presentations or tours.

• Turn your phone off or on silent — no distractions.

• Tip: Enthusiasm and respect go a long way.

Step 3: Prepare a Few Smart Questions

• Ask thoughtful questions about company culture, career paths, or recent projects (but only when the setting allows).

• Tip: Smart, genuine questions show professionalism and curiosity.

Step 4: Follow Up After the Tour

• Send a thank-you email to the main organizer (and/or your ALPFA contact) to show appreciation.

• Tip: Few students follow up after tours — doing so makes you memorable.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Dress professionally

• Greet and engage politely

• Listen actively and respectfully

• Prepare 2–3 smart questions

• Send a thank-you afterward

• Every moment in a professional environment is a chance to leave a strong, positive impression. Treat an office tour like the start of your career journey — because it might be.

How to Create a Professional Email:

Step 1: Use a Clear, Appropriate Subject Line

Keep it specific and professional, not vague.

Examples:

• "Inquiry About Summer Internship Opportunities"

• "Follow-Up from ALPFA Networking Event"

• "Application Materials: Marketing Internship, Jordan Reyes"

• Tip: A clear subject line helps busy professionals prioritize your email.

Step 2: Start with a Professional Greeting

Always address the recipient formally unless told otherwise.

Examples:

• "Dear Mr. Garcia,"

• "Hello Ms. Patel,"

• "Hi Dr. Thompson," (academia/PhDs)

• Tip: If you don’t know their name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company] Team" is acceptable.

Step 3: Introduce Yourself Briefly

In 1–2 lines, mention:

• Who you are (name, school, major, organization if relevant)

• Why you are reaching out

• Example: "My name is Sofia Martinez, and I’m a Business Administration student at The City College of New York and an active member of ALPFA CCNY."

Step 4: State Your Purpose Clearly

Example: "I’m reaching out to express my interest in the upcoming internship opportunities with your company" or "I wanted to follow up regarding our conversation during the networking event last week"

• Tip: Get to the point respectfully — don’t bury your reason five sentences in.

Step 5: Close Professionally

• Thank them for their time, express enthusiasm, and suggest next steps if appropriate.

• Example: "Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you further."

• Tip: Always thank them — even if you're requesting something.

Step 6: Use a Professional Sign-Off

Always end with:

• "Sincerely,"

• "Best regards,"

• "Thank you,"

• Then use your full name and email signature.

How to Create a Professional Email Signature:

Template:

Your Full Name
[Major] | [School Name]
Phone: (xxx) xxx-xxxx
LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/yourname]
(Optional: Personal Website or Portfolio Link)

• Tip: Keep it simple, clean, and easy to read.

Formatting Tips:

• Font: Use the same font as your email (professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, Helvetica).

• Font Size: Keep it between 10–12 pt — no giant or tiny text.

• Color: Stick with black — avoid bright colors.

• No Images: They often don’t render correctly and can look unprofessional.

• No Quotes or Extra Sayings: Keep it strictly business for job searches and networking.

• Tip: Clean and simple always beats flashy or complicated.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Clear subject line

• Formal greeting

• Short introduction of who you are

• Direct purpose and respectful tone

• Thank them

• Clean professional sign-off with full signature

Step 1: Look Beyond Salary

• Check: start date, location (remote or on-site?), job title, supervisor's name.

• Tip: Confirm that the written offer matches what you discussed verbally.

Step 2: Understand Benefits

• Health insurance, dental, vision

• Retirement plans (401k matching?)

• Paid time off (vacation, sick days)

• Relocation assistance, if applicable

• Tip: Good benefits can be worth thousands of dollars each year.

Step 3: Check Employment Type

• Full-time, part-time, contractor?

• Is there a probation period (first 60–90 days)?

• At-will employment (you or they can end employment at any time)?

• Tip: Know your rights and protections before accepting.

Step 4: Watch for Additional Documents

• Some companies require you to sign NDAs, non-compete clauses, or background check agreements.

• Always read these carefully and ask questions if unclear.

• Tip: It's normal to ask for a little time (24–72 hours) to review everything.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Check salary, start date, and job title

• Review benefits carefully

• Understand employment type and policies

• Ask for clarification if needed

• You are not just accepting a job - you are entering a professional agreement. Understand it fully, and you will start with confidence.

Step 1: Set Weekly Application Goals

• Example: Apply to 5–7 quality roles per week.

• Focus on roles that genuinely match your interests, skills, and goals.

• Tip: Quality over quantity always.

Step 2: Create a Target Company List

• List 10–20 companies you’d love to work for.

• Visit their careers pages regularly for new postings.

• Tip: A clear focus helps you find better-fit opportunities faster.

Step 3: Schedule Job Search Time

• Block 3–5 hours per week dedicated only to job searching, networking, and resume updates.

• Treat it like a class or work shift; stay consistent.

• Tip: Momentum beats last-minute scrambling.

Step 4: Track Your Applications

• Use a spreadsheet to track applications, dates, contacts, and follow-up reminders.

Step 5: Balance Applying with Networking

• Apply to roles - but also reach out to professionals, attend events, and schedule informational interviews.

• Tip: Networking often leads to hidden opportunities!

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Set weekly application goals

• Build a target company list

• Schedule a job search time

• Track all applications and deadlines

• Mix applying with networking consistently

• Treat your job search like a project — clear goals, consistent effort, and smart tracking.
  Persistence wins.

Step 1: Know You Belong

• You have earned your place in every room you step into.

• Remind yourself: Diversity strengthens organizations.

• Tip: Confidence starts with believing you deserve to be there.

Step 2: Prepare Thoroughly

• Know your background, experiences, and achievements inside and out.

• Research companies, industries, or meeting topics before stepping in.

• Tip: Preparation builds natural confidence.

Step 3: Practice Presence

• Stand tall, make eye contact, speak clearly.

• Nod, smile, and listen actively when others are speaking.

• Tip: Your body language can project confidence even when you feel nervous.

Step 4: Find Your Support System

• Connect with communities like ALPFA CCNY, mentorship groups, or professional networks.

• Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you.

• Tip: Confidence grows in strong communities.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Believe you belong in every professional space

• Prepare thoroughly before events or meetings

• Practice strong, positive body language

• Build a community that reminds you of your worth

• Professional confidence isn’t about being fearless — it’s about showing up even when you feel the fear. You are not alone, and your voice matters.

Step 1: Understand the Mission

• Read the scholarship's description carefully.

• Know what values or qualities they’re looking for.

• Tip: Tailor your essay to their mission, not just your accomplishments.

Step 2: Tell a Personal Story

• Start with a real story or a challenge you have overcome.

• Make it memorable, emotional, and authentic.

• Tip: Facts inform, stories inspire.

Step 3: Show Growth and Impact

• Focus on how you've grown, not just what you’ve achieved.

• Explain how winning the scholarship will help you give back, grow, or lead.

• Tip: They’re investing in your future impact; make that clear.

Step 4: Be Clear, Positive, and Grateful

• Write clearly, stay positive, and always thank them for considering you.

• End with a forward-looking statement about your goals.

• Tip: Professional tone + heartfelt story = powerful application.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Research the scholarship’s mission

• Start with a real personal story

• Highlight growth, leadership, and future goals

• Write clearly, proofread carefully, and stay positive

• The most memorable applications show not just what you’ve done, but who you’re becoming.

Step 1: Start with Who You Are

• Your name, your field of study, your school.

• Example: "I am a Economics student at CCNY with a passion for data-driven decision-making."

Step 2: Add Your Strengths or Skills

• Mention 2–3 skills, strengths, or areas you are passionate about.

• Example: "Skilled in project management, financial analysis, and strategic communication."

Step 3: Mention Your Future Goals

• Show where you are headed professionally.

• Example: "Eager to apply my skills in consulting and analytics to help businesses grow smarter."

Template:

"I am a [major/role] at [school/company], passionate about [fields/skills]. With experience in [key skills], I am focused on [future goal/impact you want to make]."

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Introduce who you are

• Highlight 2–3 key strengths or passions

• Mention your future professional goal

• Keep it short, positive, and clear

How to Find a Mentor:

Step 1: Identify What You Need

• Think about the skills, industries, or career paths you want guidance in.

• A great mentor doesn’t have to be your "dream job" person — they just need to be 2–5 years ahead of you in experience.

• Tip: Focus on learning, not just networking.

Step 2: Start with Your Existing Network

• Professors, ALPFA members, internship supervisors, LinkedIn alumni, and guest speakers are great places to start.

• ALPFA CCNY has two mentorship programs, our first being for underclassmen and second for upperclassmen, which is an incredible place to start!

• Don't be afraid to reach out politely — most professionals are flattered to be asked!

• Tip: Personalize your message ("I admire your work in [their field]" / "I’d love to learn from your journey").

Step 3: Be Clear and Respectful

When you reach out:

• Introduce yourself (short and clear)

• Mention why you're reaching out

• Suggest a quick coffee chat, call, or Zoom — 20–30 minutes max.

• Tip: Make it easy for them to say yes.

How to Be a Great Mentee:

Step 1: Prepare Thoughtful Questions

• Ask about their career path, lessons learned, challenges faced, skills they recommend building.

• Show up on time or a few minutes early to every meeting

Step 2: Follow Up and Show Gratitude

• Always thank them after a meeting.

• Update them on your progress (even months later!).

How to Start (ACTION TASKS):

• Define what mentorship you need

• Reach out politely and personally

• Come prepared with thoughtful questions

• Follow up with gratitude and updates

• The right mentor doesn’t just answer your questions — they help you see who you can become.

Step 1: Allow Yourself to Feel It — Then Move Forward

• It’s okay to feel disappointed, frustrated, or confused at first.

• Set a time limit (a few hours, one day) to let yourself feel the loss, then shift your focus to what’s next.

• Tip: Rejection hurts — but it’s not permanent, and it’s not personal.

Step 2: Ask for Feedback (If Appropriate)

• If the rejection was after an interview, send a polite thank-you email and ask for any feedback they’re willing to share.

• Not everyone will respond — but even one piece of advice can help you grow.

Step 3: Reflect on What You Can Control

Ask yourself:

• Were there skills I could have strengthened?

• Did my application materials show my best work?

• Were there moments I could have communicated more clearly?

• Tip: Focus on what you can improve, not on what was out of your hands.

Step 4: Reframe the Story

• Rejection is not the end, it is a redirection.

• Some of the most successful people faced dozens of rejections before landing their breakthrough opportunity.

• Tip: Treat every rejection as practice for your future "yes."

Step 5: Take Action — Quickly

• Apply for more roles.

• Strengthen your skills (new certifications, mock interviews, portfolio updates).

• Expand your network by attending a new event or reaching out to someone new.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Allow yourself to feel, but don’t stay stuck

• Politely request feedback when possible

• Reflect on what you can control and improve

• Reframe rejection as redirection

• Take immediate action toward your next opportunity

• You are not defined by any one opportunity or any one rejection. Resilience, not perfection, builds long-term success. Every "no" brings you one step closer to your "yes."

Step 1: Understand Where Your Money Goes

• Track your spending for one month (use a notebook, a spreadsheet, or free mobile apps like Budget App - Spending Dollar).

• Be honest about what you actually spend on food, transportation, school books/homework websites, subscriptions, etc.

• Tip: You can’t control what you don’t measure.

Step 2: Build a Simple Budget

• Set a basic plan:
  50% needs (food, rent, transportation)
  30% wants (fun, entertainment)
  20% savings/investing/debt repayment

• Adjust the percentages depending on your current income.

• Tip: Even $10 a week toward savings builds powerful habits!

Step 3: Start an Emergency Fund

• Try to save your first $500–$1,000 to cover unexpected costs.

• Keep it in a separate savings account if possible (not your regular checking account).

• Tip: An emergency fund gives you options, not panic, when life happens.

Step 4: Learn the Basics of Credit

• If you don’t have a credit card yet, start researching safe starter cards (secured cards, student cards).

• Pay off your balance in full every month, no exceptions.

• Never spend more than 30% of your credit limit.

• Tip: Good credit can help you rent apartments, lower insurance rates, and even land jobs.

Step 5: Think Long-Term — Even While in School

• Start learning about investments, 401(k) plans, and company benefits — even if you’re not using them yet.

• Follow financial literacy accounts and read beginner finance books.

• Tip: Future success isn't just about how much you make — it's about how much you keep and grow.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Track your monthly spending

• Create a basic budget

• Build an emergency fund (start small!)

• Learn credit basics and practice responsible use

• Start thinking about long-term financial freedom

Step 1: Start with a Professional Greeting

• If you know the hiring manager’s name, use it ("Dear Mr. Lopez" or "Dear Ms. Chen").

• If not, a professional fallback is "Dear Hiring Manager."

Step 2: Open with a Strong Introduction

• Introduce yourself and state the role you're applying for.

• Express genuine excitement about the company or opportunity.

• Mention something specific about the company that draws you to them.

• Tip: Make it about THEM first — not just about what you want.

Step 3: Tell Your Story

• Highlight 1–2 key experiences, projects, or leadership roles.

• Focus on transferable skills (leadership, communication, teamwork, problem-solving).

• Use specific examples to show how you've demonstrated these skills.

• Tip: Even class projects, ALPFA leadership, or part-time jobs can be powerful if framed around skills and impact.

Step 4: Connect It Back to the Company

• Explain why your background and skills make you a good fit for this specific opportunity.

• Show that you understand what the company needs and how you can contribute.

• Tip: Companies want to know: "How will this person help us succeed?"

Step 5: End with a Strong Closing

• Thank them for their time and consideration.

• Express excitement about the possibility of contributing to their team.

• Politely mention that you look forward to discussing your application in more detail.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Professional greeting (with name if possible)

• Strong, specific opening paragraph

• 1–2 key stories that highlight your skills

• Clear connection between your experience and the company's needs

• Polite, confident closing paragraph

Step 1: Choose Your Platform

You can build your portfolio using free, easy platforms like:

• Google Sites (very beginner-friendly)

• Wix (good for creative or business portfolios)

• Notion (great for organized, minimal designs)

• GitHub (for technical coding portfolios)

Step 2: Gather and Organize Your Work

Think about anything you’re proud of — even if it wasn’t a "real job."
Examples of what to include:

• Class projects

• Internships (summaries of key work you contributed)

• Leadership roles and event planning

• Certifications or badges earned

• Volunteer work and community impact

• Research papers or business case competitions

• Personal or technical projects (websites, apps, social media campaigns, etc.)

Step 3: Showcase Your Work Professionally

For each item you include:

• Write a short description (what the project was, what you contributed, what skills you used).

• Highlight the outcomes/results if possible (even if it's small, like event attendance, grades, client feedback, or successful deliverables).

• Tip: Use action words like “developed,” “managed,” “analyzed,” and “created.”

Step 4: Add a Short "About Me" Section

Include a simple introduction with:

• Your name, school, and major

• A 2–3 sentence career interest summary

• A link to your LinkedIn profile

• Tip: Think of this as a mini version of your elevator pitch — clear, confident, and professional.

Step 5: Update It Regularly

Your portfolio should grow with you! Set a reminder every semester to update it with new internships, certifications, leadership activities, or completed projects.

• Tip: Before career fairs or interviews, make sure your most recent accomplishments are uploaded.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Choose a platform (Google Sites, Wix, Notion, GitHub, etc.)

• Collect class projects, internships, and certifications

• Write short, professional descriptions for each piece

• Add a simple About Me section

• Update it regularly to reflect your growth

Step 1: Reflect on Your Interests and Strengths

Ask yourself:

• What subjects, activities, or skills do I enjoy most?

• What tasks make me feel energized and motivated?

• Where do I naturally excel?

• Tip: Your strengths and passions often point toward career paths that will feel fulfilling long-term.

Step 2: Research Career Paths That Match

• Explore different industries, roles, and companies.

• Talk to professionals (through ALPFA CCNY, internships, LinkedIn) about what their day-to-day work looks like.

• Attend company info sessions and career panels to learn what’s out there.

Step 3: Set SMART Career Goals

SMART = Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.

Example:

• Specific: "I want to secure a finance internship at a Fortune 500 company by Summer 2025"

• Measurable: "I want to complete 3 certifications in marketing analytics this year"

• Achievable: "I will attend 2 networking events per semester"

• Relevant: "I want leadership experience because I want to manage a team someday"

• Time-bound: "I want to update my resume and LinkedIn profile by next month"

Step 4: Break Big Goals into Small Steps

If your goal is "become a financial analyst," small steps might be:

• Learn Excel and financial modeling basics.

• Get an internship in finance.

• Attend an ALPFA panel with professionals in banking or investment.

• Join finance-related student organizations.

Step 5: Review and Adjust Regularly

• Check in with your goals every 3–6 months.

• Celebrate your progress — even small steps matter.

• Don’t be afraid to update your goals as you learn more about yourself and your industry.

• Tip: Growth is not a straight line. Flexibility is part of success.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Reflect on your interests and strengths

• Research career paths that fit your passions

• Set 2–3 SMART goals for the next year

• Break big goals into manageable steps

• Review and update your goals regularly

• Your career goals don't have to be perfect or final — they’re a map you can update as you grow. What matters most is that you’re moving forward with purpose, one step at a time.

Step 1: Take Time to Review the Offer

• Thank the employer genuinely and express your excitement.

• Ask for time to review the offer carefully (most companies expect this — it's normal).

• Clarify deadlines — make sure you know when they expect your decision.

Step 2: Research Salary or Compensation Benchmarks

• Use sites like Glassdoor or LinkedIn Salary Insights to understand average pay for the role, company, and location.

• If it’s an internship, some flexibility might be around hourly wage, housing assistance, signing bonuses, or learning opportunities.

• Tip: Being informed gives you a strong foundation for any negotiation.

Step 3: Identify What You Want to Negotiate

Depending on the offer, you might negotiate:

• Salary or hourly pay

• Signing bonus

• Relocation assistance

• Tip: Pick 1–2 priorities — don’t try to negotiate everything at once.

Step 4: Frame Your Ask Professionally

When you're ready to negotiate, stay positive, collaborative, and professional.
Focus on your value, not demands.

• Example Ask (for Salary): "I'm very excited about the opportunity to join Data Dog. Based on my research and the skills I bring in data analysis, is there flexibility to discuss the starting salary?"

• Example Ask (for Additional Support): "I'm excited about the offer and eager to contribute. I was wondering if there might be flexibility to discuss relocation assistance or a signing bonus, given [your circumstances or market standards]"

• Tip: It's a conversation, not a confrontation. Always stay professional and polite.

Step 5: Be Ready for Different Responses

They might:

• Accept your request

• Counter with a different offer

• Say no (but you can still accept or decline professionally)

• Tip: Even if they say no, negotiating shows confidence and professionalism — it does not hurt your standing if you do it respectfully.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Always thank them and express excitement

• Take time to review and research market rates

• Decide what you want to negotiate (1–2 key points)

• Frame your ask positively and based on your value

• Stay professional regardless of the outcome

• Negotiating your first offer isn’t just about money — it’s about setting the tone for how you advocate for yourself and your career growth. When you negotiate thoughtfully, you show that you know your worth and are ready to succeed at the next level.

Step 1: Show Up Ready to Learn

• Ask questions.

• Take notes.

• Listen actively in meetings and conversations.

• Tip: No one expects you to know everything — they expect you to be curious and coachable.

Step 2: Take Initiative

• Volunteer for projects when possible.

• Offer to help team members.

• Look for ways to add value, even in small ways.

• Tip: Showing a proactive attitude will set you apart from others who wait for instructions.

Step 3: Be Professional — Always

• Respond to emails and messages promptly.

• Show up on time or early.

• Dress appropriately for the office or work environment.

Step 4: Communicate Clearly and Often

• Give updates on your work without being asked.

• Ask for feedback on how you’re doing.

• Confirm deadlines and expectations when given assignments.

• Tip: Good communication makes managers' jobs easier — and they remember the people who make their lives easier.

Step 5: Build Relationships

• Get to know your teammates, supervisors, and other interns.

• Attend office events, meetings, or virtual happy hours if offered.

• Be friendly, approachable, and respectful.

• Tip: The people you meet could become mentors, references, or even future colleagues.

Step 6: Reflect and Record Your Achievements

• Keep a record of what you worked on, the skills you built, and the results you contributed to.

• This will help you update your resume and LinkedIn afterward.

• Tip: Don’t wait until the end — jot things down week by week.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Show up ready to learn

• Take initiative whenever possible

• Communicate openly and professionally

• Build strong relationships

• Keep track of your achievements and skills

Step 1: Research Who Will Be There

• Check the list of companies and representatives attending.

• Prioritize the organizations you're most interested in.

• Prepare specific questions about their company, culture, or roles.

Step 2: Prepare Your Elevator Pitch

Have a quick, 30-60 second personal introduction ready.

• Example: "Hi, my name is Meghan. I'm a Business Administration student at CCNY and a proud member of ALPFA CCNY. Last summer, I completed an internship with Accenture, where I developed skills in project management, financial analysis, and client communication. I'm passionate about finance and leadership development, and I'm currently exploring new internship opportunities where I can continue growing professionally and applying my skills to real-world challenges"

• Tip: Your pitch should say who you are, what you’re studying, prior experience, and what you’re looking for.

Step 3: Bring Your Resume

• Bring printed copies if it's in person (10–15 is a good number).

• Make sure your resume is updated and tailored for the event if possible.

• Have a digital copy ready for virtual events.

• Tip: Use a simple folder to keep resumes organized — it looks more professional.

Step 4: Dress Professionally

• Business professional

• First impressions matter — looking polished boosts your confidence and credibility.

Step 5: Prepare a Few Questions to Ask

• "What skills do you look for in interns or new hires?"

• "What advice would you give to students hoping to join your company?"

• "How would you describe the company culture?"

Step 6: Follow Up After the Event

• Send thank-you emails or LinkedIn connection requests within 24–48 hours.

• Mention something specific you discussed to personalize your message.

How to Start (ACTION TASKS):

• Research companies beforehand

• Prepare and practice your elevator pitch

• Bring polished resumes

• Dress professionally

• Prepare thoughtful questions

• Follow up after connecting

General Resume Rules for All Careers:

• Stick to one page.

• Keep the design clean and easy to read

• Organize clearly: Contact Info | Education | Experience | Skills | Leadership/Activities.

• Start bullet points with strong action verbs.

• Quantify achievements whenever possible (using numbers, metrics, or results).

• Tip: Your resume should make it easy for recruiters to immediately see why you’re a strong candidate.

Structuring Your Resume Based on Your Career Path:

If You're in a Technical Career (Computer Science, Engineering, IT):

• Include a Technical Skills section at the top or near the top.
  (Example: Programming Languages, Tools, Platforms)

• Highlight Projects you’ve built, even if they were academic or personal.

• Focus on problem-solving, technical achievements, and hands-on experience (even from coursework or hackathons).

Example Sections for Technical Resume:

• Technical Skills

• Projects

• Work Experience

• Education

• Certifications (like AWS, Google, or other tech-related certificates)

• Tip: Listing GitHub links, portfolio links, or project demos is highly encouraged for tech fields.

If You're in Business, Finance, Marketing, or Management:

• Focus on leadership, results, problem-solving, and impact.

• Highlight internships, case competitions, ALPFA leadership roles, and any client-facing work.

• Emphasize business skills like financial analysis, strategy development, marketing campaigns, project management, public speaking, or teamwork.

Example Sections for Business Resume:

• Experience

• Leadership and Activities

• Skills (Excel, CRM tools, Financial Analysis, Communication)

• Education

• Certifications (HubSpot, Bloomberg Terminal, etc.)

If You're in a Creative Career (Communications, Design, Media):

• Highlight portfolios, published work, creative projects, or campaigns.

• Skills should include software tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, social media management platforms, etc.).

Example Sections for Creative Resume:

• Skills

• Projects/Portfolio Highlights

• Work Experience

• Leadership and Activities

• Education

• Tip: Include links to an online portfolio if you have one!

Quick Content for Every Resume (No Matter What Career)

• Contact Info (professional email, LinkedIn link)

• Education (include expected graduation date!)

• Experience (part-time jobs, leadership, research, projects)

• Skills (technical, software, languages, professional skills)

• Leadership, volunteering, and extracurricular activities

How to Start (ACTION TASKS):

• Keep it to one page

• Tailor sections depending on your career field

• Focus on skills, leadership, and experiences

• Use strong action verbs and measurable results

• Customize your resume slightly for each opportunity

Step 1: Send a Thank You Email Within 24 Hours

• After an interview or networking event, always send a short thank you email.

• Express appreciation for their time and briefly highlight something you enjoyed or learned.

• If it was an interview, re-confirm your enthusiasm for the role.

• Tip: Keep it short, genuine, and specific — no copy-paste emails.

Step 2: Personalize Your Message

Mention something specific you discussed:

• A particular project or opportunity they mentioned

• A career tip they shared

• A connection you both had

• Tip: This helps your email stand out and reminds them of your conversation.

Step 3: Reaffirm Your Interest

For interviews:

• Reconfirm your excitement about the role.

• Quickly restate why you're a strong fit based on your conversation.

For networking:

• Thank them again for their advice or insights.

• Express interest in staying in touch for future opportunities.

Step 4: Connect on LinkedIn

• Send a personalized connection request.

• Mention you enjoyed meeting them and hope to stay connected.

• Tip: Always customize your LinkedIn connection note — it only takes a few seconds but makes a huge difference.

Step 5: Politely Follow Up if You Haven't Heard Back

• If you had an interview and don't hear back by the timeline they gave you (or 1-2 weeks later), it’s okay to send a polite follow-up.

• Keep it short and respectful — they may just be busy.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Send a thank you email within 24 hours

• Personalize it based on your conversation

• Reaffirm your interest (for interviews)

• Connect on LinkedIn (if appropriate)

• Follow up professionally if needed

Step 1: Research the Company

Before your interview, learn everything you can about the company:

• Their mission and values

• Their major products, services, or clients

• Recent news or initiatives

• Tip: Always be ready to answer: "Why do you want to work here?"

Step 2: Review the Job Description

• Highlight key skills or experiences the company is looking for.

• Think of examples from your own background that show you have those skills.

• Prepare to speak directly to what the role requires.

• Tip: Use the job description like a checklist for your answers.

Step 3: Practice Common Interview Questions

Prepare strong answers for questions like:

• "Tell me about yourself."

• "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"

• "Describe a time you overcame a challenge."

• "Why should we hire you?"

• Tip: Use the STAR Method for behavioral questions: Situation, Task, Action, Result.

Step 4: Prepare Your Questions for Them

Interviewers almost always ask if you have questions at the end — have 2–3 ready such as:

• "What does success look like in this role?"

• "What are the next steps in the hiring process?"

• "How would you describe the team culture?"

• Tip: Good questions show you’re serious and thoughtful — never say you have no questions!

Step 5: Plan Your Outfit and Logistics

• Dress professionally — when in doubt, it's better to be slightly overdressed.

• Confirm the interview time and location (or video link) a day in advance.

• Have your resume and any other materials ready.

• Tip: For virtual interviews, test your technology early!

Step 6: Stay Calm and Be Yourself

• Arrive (or log in) early.

• Smile, breathe, and remember: they want you to succeed.

• It's okay to take a second to think before answering a tough question.

• Tip: Interviews are not just about qualifications — they’re about confidence and connection too.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Research the company

• Review and match yourself to the job description

• Practice answering common questions: LIST OF COMMON QUESTIONS TO PRACTICE

• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask

• Plan your outfit, logistics, and mindset

• Remember:
  The interview is your opportunity to tell your story, show your potential, and start your next chapter. You don’t have to be perfect — you just have to be prepared.

Why LinkedIn Matters:

Recruiters often check LinkedIn profiles before offering interviews. A strong profile shows that you’re serious, professional, and ready to grow — even if you’re still building experience.

Step 1: Start With a Professional Photo

• Use a clear, high-quality headshot.

• A simple photo taken in good lighting with a neutral background works perfectly.

• Dress neatly and professional (Ex. full suit, dress, button up).

Step 2: Create a Strong Headline

Your headline appears right under your name and it is one of the first things people see.

• Instead of just: “Student at CCNY”

• Try something stronger: “Braven Fellow | Business Administration Student | ALPFA CCNY Member | Future Finance Leader” or “Tech Architecture Summer Analyst @ Accenture | Computer Science Student | Passionate About Technology and Innovation | ALPFA CCNY Member”

• Tip: Think about your most impressive job role(s)/fellowship(s)/apprenticeship(s) + major + your career interest + a keyword or two.

Step 3: Create Your About Section

This is your short professional story — keep it clear and genuine.

• Information to Start With: Where you are now (your major, school, achievements so far, or current goal), what you're passionate about, what you’re working toward

• For Example: "I am a Business Administration student at The City College of New York, passionate about finance, leadership, and community engagement. As an active member of ALPFA CCNY, I’ve developed skills in project management, professional networking, and business strategy through leadership workshops, national conferences, and real-world case competitions. I'm committed to building my professional skills while giving back to the community and creating spaces for others to grow. I’m eager to pursue opportunities where I can contribute, lead, and make a lasting impact in the business world."

Step 4: Add Experience (Even If You Don’t Have Formal Work Yet)

• Leadership roles in clubs (e.g., ALPFA CCNY, other organizations)

• Volunteer experiences

• Campus activities or major class projects

• Part-time jobs, internships, or shadowing opportunities

• Tip: Focus on what you learned and contributed, not just titles.

Step 5: Highlight Your Skills and Certifications

• Fill Out the “Skills” Section With Any and All Relevant Skills: Leadership, communication, Microsoft excel, public speaking, project management, teamwork

• Tip: Take free certificate courses (some websites such as Forage give access for free!) and add certificates directly to your profile.

Step 6: Start Building Your Network

Connect with classmates, professors, and professionals you meet at ALPFA CCNY events. After attending events or networking sessions, ensure you ask to connect on Linkedln and send a quick personalized invite! The bigger your network, the more opportunities you’ll see.

1. Tip: Always add a quick message when you connect, like: “Hi Meghan, it was great meeting you at the ALPFA CCNY Luncheon! Looking forward to staying connected”.

How to Start (ACTION ITEMS):

• Upload a professional photo

• Write a headline that highlights your goals

• Craft a short, genuine About section

• List leadership, volunteer, professional, and class experiences

• Add AT LEAST FIVE relevant skills

• Connect with AT LEAST TEN people to start building your network