College Gloss: Career

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4 Things You Should Do This Year for Your Future Career

As the school year is beginning, you're probably thinking about classes or activities, not your future career. It's easy to get caught up in everyday college life, but job hunting might come up sooner than you think! Before you get too far into midterms or finals, here are four things you should do this year for your future career.

Update and proofread your resume
Your resume is sometimes all an employer has to go off of when they are deciding whether to interview you. You never know when an opportunity to apply for a job will come up, so keep your resume updated and polished. Make sure to update your resume to reflect your internships over college. You should also make sure to proofread your resume, or better yet, have someone else proofread your resume for any spelling or grammatical errors.

Clean up your social media accounts
Employers often will check your social media accounts these days. While your Facebook profile pic does not need to be professionally done, you probably should delete photos of you drinking excessively, doing drugs, or in the middle of anything illegal. With other social media, make sure you haven't posted anything that will excessively count against you.

Talk to your career center
Most schools have a career center, and their job is to help you find a job! Even if you are not sure what you want to do after you graduate, it's a great idea to talk to them. They can help point you in the right direction when it comes to your future goals.

Look and apply for jobs
Finally, you can prepare all you want, but you won't get anywhere unless you look for and apply to jobs. Job boards like JobTonic are a great resource to find all kinds of positions. Get into the habit of checking these boards from time to time to see what kind of opportunities are out there.

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Does Freelance Fit?: Pros and Cons of Freelance Work

During college, it can be very difficult to make ends meet or earn a little extra spending money on the side. Although academics are always the most important aspect of college, working provides hands-on experience and money. But what work is possible from your college dorm room that does not require a work scholarship or transportation? Freelance work.

Unlike working as a barista at the local cafe, doing freelance work only requires a computer, a strong Internet connection and time management skills. If you are a talented writer, editor, artist or translator, there is a steady supply of work available.

Decide if earning money through freelance work is worth your time after reading the following benefits and disadvantages of freelancing.

Benefits of Freelance Work

Working from home. All you need is a reliable Internet connection, which can be found at most dorms or a library. Most work can even be done at a communal desktop in the computer lab.

You have flexible hours. Unlike a job like working at the gym with set hours, doing freelance work does not require a fixed schedule. For college students, a flexible schedule is ideal to fit around homework, extracurriculars and a social life.

Relatively easy work is available. I regularly write 500-word articles on a variety of subjects. Each article only requires a little bit of research, one rewrite and about two hours of work. Depending on the work, most jobs do not require all that much effort.

A variety of work is offered. I tend to do freelance writing, but I have expanded my horizons a few times to include editing academic papers. Even the topics vary widely. I’ve written about the best printer paper, transexuals in the fashion industry and the most romantic beach getaways for couples. You learn about subjects you would typically not bother to research on your own time.

Disadvantages of Freelance Work

The pay can be terrible. Since most freelance work is conducted online, minimum wage laws do not always apply. As a first-time freelancer, your pay can be as little as a dollar per 600-word article. If you are good, you will eventually be able to raise your hourly rate above minimum wage.

You need to have solid time management skills. Since the work is off-site, you can finish the work at your own pace. But failing to submit a project in on time may result in terrible feedback or a reduced payment. Sometimes when homework begins to pile up, it becomes difficult to even go to the gym for an hour, let alone write 10 articles.

The possibility of being scammed is higher when doing freelance work than a traditional job. You may do everything right, turn your work in on time and then your client disappears without paying. Your valuable time has all gone to waste. Some freelance websites have their own security mechanisms to lower that probability, but it still exists.

Freelance work is not for everyone, but it does offer quick and easy money while you are busy at college. Although I cannot pay off my college tuition by freelancing, I can pay for dinner out once a month or a new pair of shoes. Hello, new slippers!

By: Lisa Swanson | Image: Source

How To Turn an Internship Into a Job

Internships, once an optional facet of college life, are now as standard and necessary as intro courses. According to Yahoo! Finance, the United States has become a “nation of interns.” Internships are not only necessary for getting your foot in the door at a company and developing a professional skill set, they also are mutually beneficial for the employer and employee; this professional trial run allows both sides to see what they will be getting if a long-term position were to be offered.

Most interns report for their first day of typically unpaid work with the hope that the position will eventually blossom into a full-time, paying position. Unfortunately, the amount of competitors coupled with the decreased amount of available employment opportunities often sends interns packing up their cubicles at the end of the summer with nothing more than a recommendation letter. Make yourself stand out in the crowd by following these steps to turn your internship into a career.

Put Up with the Tedious Tasks
Interning isn’t always fun. Sometimes, it can be downright tedious. In a perfect world, interns would be recognized and appreciated for all of the boring and monotonous work they do that keeps the office running. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Interns are seldom paid and often talked down to and treated unfairly. In fact, don’t be surprised if your supervisor never bothers to learn your name. While this can be disheartening, try your best not to take it too personally. Interning is a game of survival of the fittest. Demonstrating that you can endure less-than-desirable situations shows your boss that you are resilient and will get your work done no matter what. Let them know what kind of employee they’d be getting!

Be, Be Aggressive
Co-workers can make or break your time at work. It’s not uncommon for interns to become close friends after a few months of working together. However, if you are serious about pursuing employment, remember that in this scenario, your friends also are your competition. While it’s unnecessary to display competitiveness at the "Hunger Games" level, it would be prudent to keep your eye on the prize. If you have a great idea in mind, whip up a proposal and present it to your boss on your own. Teamwork is undoubtedly important; however, independence and initiative can go a long way. Don’t allow personal feelings and relationships to dull your professional shine.

Go the Extra Mile
When you realize that interning is less Lauren Conrad in the Teen Vogue closet and more Anne Hathaway in the "Devil Wears Prada" (as in fetching Starbucks, not receiving glamorous makeovers), you might experience a decrease in the enthusiasm you initially felt when you were filling out the application. However, now is not the time to get complacent. Get to work on time or early, stay late to finish your projects if necessary, and always be alert and attentive. Put effort into everything that you are assigned, no matter how unnecessary it may seem. No task is too small. Displaying a strong work ethic when you are not getting paid will leave your employers with a favorable impression. Remember: you never know when you are being tested.

Make Your Intentions Known
When the time comes for you to transition from being an intern to an employee, it’s best to be forward and direct. Schedule some time with your boss to speak privately. Remember, this is not an interview. It’s simply an opportunity to throw your hat in the ring. Express to your boss that you’ve enjoyed your internship while noting what you’ve learned and how it has enabled you to grow professionally. Make a point to articulate the successes you’ve had as well, illuminating what an asset you’ll be to the team. It’s vital that you display how you’re an asset to the team.

If you find yourself at an internship that you truly love, it’s important to pluck up your courage and determination. While it may be intimidating to make that first step, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t try. Remember, you always miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take. Put your best foot forward and work hard. Follow these tips and you’ll find that you’ll have an intern fetching you coffee in no time!

By: Adjoa Bruce | Image: Source

How to Ace a Phone Interview

Recent graduates and other job seekers are expanding their employment search, sometimes even internationally, so it only makes sense that a more convenient and time-effective mode of interviewing has become the new norm.

According to U.S. News and World Report, phone interviews have become the preferred method of candidate screening in recent years. The thought of being interviewed in your pajamas from the comfort of your bed sounds way more appealing than sweating through a new pencil skirt from Loft while being grilled in an unreasonably hard office chair. But this situation actually still calls for a more serious approach, as it can be even more challenging than meeting in-person. A phone interviewee will have to juggle how to make her personality shine through via the telephone while illustrating her professional demeanor. Fear not, College Gloss has tips to conquer the call.

Plan Ahead
Just because you don’t have to travel to an office doesn’t mean you shouldn’t allot some time for preparation. Under no circumstances should you be picking up an interview call when you’ve woken up five minutes prior -- frog voice is not professionally appealing. Wake up at least an hour beforehand to splash some cold water on your face, have a cup of coffee or do whatever it is you need to do to be awake and alert. When you pick up that phone, you should be sharp and attentive.

Relax

In many ways, the phone interview can be slightly more intimidating than a face-to-face interview. After all, you can’t woo your prospective employer with a smile, and it’s extremely difficult to read a person when you can’t see their face. Thus, it’s imperative that you’re calm and unruffled. Being nervous or anxious might translate over the phone as panicky or frazzled. (Side note: there’s absolutely no shame in calling your mom half an hour before your scheduled interview time. Quick pep talks can work wonders!)

Get Dressed
I know what you’re thinking: “Why in the WORLD would I get dressed in business casual to sit in my dorm room and talk on the phone?!” It seems incredibly silly. However, as I’m sure any College Gloss reader knows, clothes can drastically affect mood. It’s shocking how much more professional you feel after putting on a blazer and a pair of pearl studs. If you want to go the extra mile, open up your Skype or Photobooth application so you can see yourself while you’re on the phone. Viewing yourself in boss mode will give you a confidence boost.

Open up your Laptop
Here is a serious advantage to the phone interview: you can reference your resume! Sometimes in a face-to-face interview, it’s easy to blank out due to feeling overwhelmed or intimidated. It’s often not until you’ve gotten back to your dorm and kicked off your heels that you realize you completely forgot to mention the amazing project you worked on at your last internship or the successful fundraiser your sorority threw for Autism awareness. On a phone interview, you have the privilege of having your resume right in front of you, allowing you to easily reference past accomplishments. You can also open up a Word Doc and have some pre-prepared answers available for the questions you KNOW will be asked because no interview would be complete without the obligatory “What’s your biggest strength?”/“What’s your biggest weakness?” (Brush up on more common Q's with this list.)

Take It Seriously
Finally, it’s imperative to keep in mind that besides format, this interview is no different than any other. That being said, remember to do your research on the company, thank the interviewer for his or her time, and send a thank-you note or e-mail post-interview expressing gratitude for the opportunity. Anything that you would before or after a typical face-to-face interview, do it here. Remember, the objective is still the same: to get the job!

By: Adjoa Bruce | Image: Source

4 "Class Commandments" to Be One Classy Lady

In today’s fast-paced, demanding world women account for 51.5 percent of all workers in the high-paying management, professional and related occupations. The term “lady” has greatly changed throughout the years, but class and elegance are not antiquated concepts only royal women and the wealthy possess. However, representing yourself as a well-mannered woman can, literally and figuratively, open doors of opportunities.

The first principle is always say please and thank you. These magic words convince others you genuinely care and know your manners. People enjoy being treated well and will appreciate a “thank you” instead of a “you got it” or “no problem.” Just because our society as a whole is less personal than ever does not mean you should do the same. Although it’s a minor change, it can have profound effects with employers when agreeing to a task or responsibility.

The next rule is no gossip. Whether it’s office drama or speaking ill about “Jill” from Econ class, resist the temptation and do not engage in this belittling behavior that only hurts others and possibly yourself. Gossip spreads nasty rumors, alters one’s perceptions of others and makes you appear desperate to demean others. Ladies never participate in such scandalous talk and do everything possible to avoid being near those who do. Do not forget the adage, “you are who your friends are.”

Following the first two speaking norms is to watch what you say. It seems to be normal for women to spit out offensive language with no filter when they get cut off driving, have an exam week or even a disagreement with their boyfriend. However, language is a powerful instrument; we can carefully select words to emphasize what we mean without resorting to name calling.

The final “class commandment” is to dress tastefully. Our outfits can empower us and send others a nonverbal message of who we are and what we believe in. Being a lady does not necessarily mean draping yourself in strands of pearls and wearing designer, preppy clothing. Instead it means dressing appropriately at all times given the situation.

These four “class commandments” try to combine the best of both worlds: a strong career woman and a gracious young lady, with the world at your feet.

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

Career Advice: What Not to Say At Work

Words have the extraordinary ability to empower you and grant you a certain distinction from others at any time and place, especially in the workplace. By now through experience, you have realized there are inappropriate phrases for family, friends and distant relationships like, “you look heavy,” and “are you losing your hair?” The old idiom, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me,” could not be any more false in the business world.

The words you meticulously select to craft sentences either highlight or depreciate your character and work ethic. Below are a few phrases College Gloss believes should be permanently prohibited at work and internships.

“I am so hungover from last night.” Just because you are a young college woman does not give you a free pass to act irresponsibly and let it spill over into your work life. Your colleagues may definitely participate in a happy hour event, but they are not mentioning it amongst themselves to preserve their image as reliable workers. As long as you keep work and partying in their own separate spheres, you should not have a problem.

“This is what I honestly think...” This phrase is confusing because your workmates or boss might question your integrity. It is peculiar to preface a sentence with “honestly” because you should always be genuine in your contributions and not have to specify when you are and when you are not.

“Don’t tell anyone, but...” Clearly, this phrase screams scandal and should be avoided at all costs. While it is true that secrets sometimes strengthen relationships between individuals, this is never office appropriate regardless of how juicy the tidbit might be. Alongside money, gossip might as well be the root of all (office) evil and can lead to detrimental relationships.

“That is not my job.” Imagine you casually asked a coworker a simple question and he or she replied in such an abrasive manner, you would most likely never ask them anything again. Replying with a rude “that’s not my job” connotes an unconcerned and irresponsible character. You will become unapproachable and not well liked among your office peers. It is important to always be helpful especially with those individuals who seek out your guidance, because you too would want advice.

As a rule of thumb, always think before you speak to ensure you sound polished and professional. How you express yourself, both verbally and non-verbally, can be the ultimate deciding factor in an enticing promotion or more.

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

3 Simple Ways to Clean Up Your Online Presence

Just like you probably would not your grandmother getting a glimpse of you doing a kegstand on St. Patrick’s Day, you do not want prospective employers selecting the next qualified candidate instead of you because of it. In today’s modern day, it is guaranteed potential employers will peruse the internet searching for your LinkedIn profile, Twitter feed and Facebook account. Chances are you most likely have a clean, professional LinkedIn account filled with the essentials like your skills, resume, achievements and recommendations. However, there is a high probability your Twitter and Facebook sites are not as conservative and future employment “safe.”

As a college woman, you must become knowledgeable about employer’s social media screening and realize its beneficial or disastrous side effects. Although there has been a great deal of debate and bill drafting, some prospective employers believe it is their right to ask future employees for their Facebook username and password to ensure they are good citizens and more importantly, good hires. Companies esteem you as a worthwhile investment and want to know you are worth every shiny penny.

The following are three simple tips to clean up your social media so you will not have to fret or worry about any scrutinization.

1. Think before you post. This is the golden rule of social media and includes any form of posts like pictures, tweets, statuses and comments. Before you upload or take any action on a social media website, stop and ask yourself if you would feel embarrassed if a recruiter found it. If an employer seems too distant and you are in the earlier college years, think of your parents or grandparents before publishing.

2. Limit controversy. Refrain from liking controversial topics like religion, politics and any peculiar extracurricular activities others might not understand. For example, while it is acceptable for you to declare yourself a Roman Catholic and follow the Pope’s twitter account, it would not be appropriate to like contentious threads that badmouth abortionists. Also resist the enticing urge to post inebriated photos from your best friend's 21st birthday extravaganza.

3. Set strict privacy settings. Just because you are extra cautious of your online activity does not ensure your friends will not tag you in unbecoming posts or scandalous information. Control your profile’s information by setting privacy settings that require you to approve posts, tags and photos of you before they are published for the world to marvel at. This grants you a significant amount of control and will help reduce any surprises from last week's post-midterm shindig.

It is simple, be smart -- think, limit and protect your profile. Keep in mind the old adage, “the public eye never blinks,” and remember what happens online does not only stay online.

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

4 Tips for Making the Most of Your Summer

Sweet, sweet summertime is finally here, and it is imperative you start creating wise plans. While lounging at the pool for days sipping a cocktail sounds perfect, this summer should be all about the seamless balance between hard work and satisfaction. College Gloss is here to help you with some fantastic (and smart) summer plans.

1. Find an internship. Internships boost your resume and provide you with indispensable work experience to eventually find a career in your desired field. Employers love glancing at a resume with hands-on experience, not just aspirations for the future. Internships give you the great opportunity to network, expand your skills and receive a glowing letter of recommendation for your future job search. College Gloss recently interviewed Lauren Berger, CEO of InternQueen.com, and she suggests you pursue an internship through her site or other valuable resources like your university’s career center.

2. Travel abroad. College women who have been fortunate enough to study abroad will tell you it was one of the best decisions of their lives and encourage you to do the same. Most universities offer studying abroad for class credit at a wide selection of foreign destinations. Additionally, financial aid and scholarships are available when needed. This experience completely immerses you in another country’s culture, food and environment. Imagine yourself studying near the Leaning Tower of Pisa for an Italian quiz.

3. Take classes. While staying at home or at your university does not seem as glamorous as jet setting abroad to study, it may be necessary to bunker down and take classes before the fall semester. You should utilize the months to your academic advantage and complete as many credits possible to ameliorate your yearly course load. Summer classes are typically smaller and allow you to better develop relationships with your professors and peers.

4. Study and prepare. If you are looking for an even higher education post undergrad, the summer is the quintessential moment to prepare for your future exams. Purchase a study prep book for your desired field (MCAT, GMAT, GRE, DAT, etc.) and study everyday for at least a few hours. Although it is a tedious task, you will be grateful of your competitive advantage once the fall begins.

Summer is an exciting season, but it should be sensibly spent. You should use this time to improve yourself, grow your professional network and have an incredible time while doing it. Good luck, gal!

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

5 Reasons We Love Ashlan Gorse, America’s Favorite Entertainment Journalist

Vibrant, light-hearted and hard-working are a just a few characteristics that come to mind when thinking about Ashlan Gorse. Gorse is a vivacious entertainment journalist, and she works as a correspondent for the media and celebrity news outlet E! News. She has an amazing red carpet presence and has interviewed many famous actors, including Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, Drew Barrymore and William Shatner, to name just a few.

After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Broadcasting and a Minor in Music, Gorse landed a gig with the prestigious NBC Page Program in New York, working behind the scenes at shows like “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and “Saturday Night Live.” Soon after, she moved to Los Angeles to serve as editor-at-large for Life & Style Magazine. Her entertainment and celebrity insight was always on par, and this led Gorse to transition from her position at Life & Style to that of working as a broadcast correspondent for the extremely popular E! News Network.

Read on for five reasons College Gloss loves Ashlan Gorse.

1. Confidence is the key to her success
Gorse is a spirited, hard-working television personality in the media today, and she has landed so much success in the entertainment broadcast world because of her drive and passion for reporting. In an interview with glamouredition.com, Gorse commented, “It took me six years after I graduated of working my tail off to getting my job at E!. It’s a long and extremely bumpy road, but if you have your heart set on it, go after it.” Gorse is a major inspiration to college students looking to breaking out into the entertainment reporting scene because she understands the competition nowadays, but she is quick to remind students that if you persevere, more opportunities can be opened.

2. She’s “eco-chic”
Gorse understands that it’s always “in” to be eco-friendly. She contributes a blog to E! Online, “Eco Chic with Ashlan,” that highlights easy tips and tricks for everyone to try to reduce their carbon footprint and explains how to be more environmentally-friendly. All of her blog articles offer extremely helpful -- not to mention resourceful -- advice and ideas. Some of her advice includes buying makeup with less packaging (since it’s going to be thrown away anyway) and to try to walk to complete your errands, as opposed to driving. Gorse has said, “I have since set out on making myself, my car, my house, my dog and even my co-workers more eco-friendly without sacrificing style. I mean, we do work at E!”

3. Gorse embraces her shape
In an age where everyone is obsessing over keeping up with style debutantes and following the hottest designers like Isaac Mizrahi and Michael Kors, it may seem impossible to feel at ease with our body shapes at all times. Ashlan Gorse, however, is a phenomenal example of someone who has come to not only embrace her body shape but also to be proud of who she is. In response to the pressure to look a certain way physically on television, Gorse commented, “I always try to look the best I can... My parents always told me to be proud of my height and I always try to remember that.” In an interview with fitnessmagazine.com, Gorse said that she hates when the entertainment industry places such important emphasis on how “great” it is to be super skinny. She continued, “Luckily, I think ‘skinny’ is celebrated less than ‘healthy’ now that women like Sofia Vergara and Christina Hendricks are on the scene.” To Gorse, it’s most important to “rock what you got.”

4. She rocks both the red carpet and E!
Ashlan Gorse is equal parts witty, outgoing and kind, which is probably the best mix to be a red carpet reporter for the E! Network. She has flawlessly reported for many award shows, including the Oscars, the Grammys and the Golden Globes, and her red carpet presence is both bold and fresh. Also, Gorse is extremely multi-dimensional in terms of her work for E!. In an interview with celebritycafe.com, Gorse explained, “I kind of cover everything, from breaking news to pop culture to music to television and movies, so on any given day I could be anchoring for the evening news, anchoring for the internet, breaking news, or off on a red carpet.” Gorse always tries to step out of the box and try something new -- there is no “glass ceiling” for this impressive woman.

5. Her passion is undeniable
Gorse’s role on E! serves as an earnest reminder to college women alike that your dreams and ambitions can be achieved if you set your mind to it, but to also be prepared for failures along with successes, and that sometimes a dream job isn’t handed to you on a silver platter following graduation. Before E!, Gorse said, “I wanted to be on camera and didn’t know how to make it happen. So I worked my way up from being a production assistant to field producer to segment producer.” Gorse has also made it clear that you need to find a way to do what you love and to take the good with the bad: “Make sure you really, really want to do this. The job is crazy hours and full of stress... Do everything you can to get yourself out there.”

Ashlan Gorse is one of the most intelligent and extroverted women in broadcast entertainment, and she is a personal favorite to CG. Besides E! News, she has also appeared on shows like “The Insider,” “The Early Show” and “The Today Show.” At 33, Gorse always strives to achieve more each day, and her ultimate goals are “to bring more socially conscious stories to the entertainment realm” and to “highlight people making a difference in the world and hopefully inspire others to do the same.” Gorse has definitely inspired CG women to dream big with the right attitude and work ethic!

By: Mallory Feeney | Images: 1, 2

4 Tips for Creating the Perfect Fall Class Schedule

Summer is here, and you need to create the ever-so-daunting college task -- designing the perfect fall class schedule. The key to a successful semester lies in your schedule, as it dictates your university lifestyle and can either benefit or destroy your time management skills. College registrar systems frequently crash from student overload during class scheduling and counselors refuse to accept appointments, so start early to ensure you create the schedule of your dreams.

Below are four tips guaranteed to help you wisely craft your schedule.

1. Ask Around: Your advisor and classmates are two vital groups when creating a class schedule because it provides a better academic and peer perspective. You should always talk to your advisor to confirm your required core classes, milestones and academic plan. Schedule an appointment with your counselor at least two weeks in advance to ensure he or she will give you the appropriate time allotment for the guidance you deserve. On the other side, speak with your colleagues and inquire everywhere to learn what works, what does not and how to survive challenging courses.

2. Do Research: When selecting your class plan for the next few months, it is essential to conduct research on the professors and classes. Your friends can help steer you in the right direction, but completely anonymous stranger reviews and ratings can ultimately seal the deal. This website allows you to browse universities by state and easily search for instructors and their invaluable teaching assistants.

3. Extra, Extra: Before you decide to register in any “extra” or supplementary courses not required for your major, confirm you have both the available time in your scholastic scheme and financial resources to do so with your advisor and parents. Taking a variety of classes helps create a better-rounded woman prepped for nearly any situation with knowledge from different fields and eras. Exploring unfamiliar departments allows you to develop as an individual, foster personal areas of interest and become confident in your major and specific college selection.

3. Be Realistic: All of the aforementioned advice has no real substance unless you are realistic with your class scheduling. Take a moment and think about your learning patterns. If you are not a morning person, chances are you will not easily become one overnight and excel in 8 a.m. classes. Also consider your entire lifestyle including work, internships, extracurricular activities and social commitments.

We suggest you follow these savvy recommendations to succeed in the challenging balancing act of classes and social life -- good luck, gals!

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

Career Secret: Thank You Notes

There is no debate that true success comes from hard work, perseverance and skill. Success comes to those who rise early every morning, dedicated and committed towards working on their envisioned goals. However, a key secret in success is the importance of thank you notes. People are accustomed to solely working electronically and quickly shooting out an email after meeting someone or being interviewed. Some individuals do not even send thank you notes at all, so distinguish yourself from other experienced candidates with a handwritten personal thank you note.

Follow these three easy steps to blow away your competition and present yourself as the remarkable and qualified young woman you are.

1. Act Quickly: College women should always have a fresh box of thank you cards, envelopes, stamps and a high quality black ink pen. Custom cards with either your monogram or even photograph are effective in reminding the interviewer of just how great and personable you are. Keeping these materials on hand prepares you to write a note as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours of the interview.

2. Write Short & Simple: Thank you notes are meant to convey a sense of genuine gratitude in just a few short sentences. Be sure to repeat why you are the ideal candidate, what specific contributions you would bring to the company and how enthusiastic you are about the interview opportunity. You can also use this chance to include anything else you believe is relevant and important for the interviewer to remember and grant you a second round of interviews.

3. Edit and Proof: Read your letter out loud a few times scrutinizing it for spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and general flow. You do not want to ruin a beautiful, handwritten gesture with proofreading mistakes that could cost you the job. If it helps and you have the time, show it to a trusted friend or family member to proof it for you.

Send an edited, short thank you card within 24 hours and (hopefully) reap the rewards. Individuals, especially interviewers, rarely receive these anymore, and it is certain to make a lasting impression when comparing you to other knowledgeable contenders. And most importantly, you present yourself as the polished and refined young woman you are.

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

Career: The Interview Dining Etiquette Guide

If you succeed through the first two at-the-office interviews and are invited to an “eating meeting,” you are under strong contemplation and must impress the potential employers with your graceful social skills. The interviewers already envision you excelling at the job but just want to confirm you can handle any situation with the proper etiquette. Interview dining etiquette is comprised of the following three essential sections: before, during and after.

Follow these simple tips below to finally and charmingly land your dream job while devouring crab cakes and bruschetta.

BEFORE:

Confirm the reservation, which includes both the restaurant and time.
Look at the restaurant's website to pre-decide on a few meal options.
Dress professionally, even if the restaurant is not formal. Remember, you are there for a job.
Rehearse common interview questions and answers to appear more natural.
Know the company’s culture, facts, branches, history, etc.
Brush up on important news events from a variety of sources, as this often acts as opening chit-chat.
Turn off your phone or silence it until you leave the restaurant.
Arrive early and wait in the lobby, not at the bar.

DURING:

Wait until everyone in your lunch party is seated to open your napkin and place it on your lap.
Be polite to your server and always use “please and thank you.” How you treat the help speaks volumes about your character.
Instead of alcohol, order some sparkling water and sip it from the glass.
Order an easy-to-eat entree using your utensils. Never order the cheapest or the most expensive meal; when in doubt doubt follow the interviewer’s lead.
Skip the sweets unless the interviewer strongly suggests you try a specific dessert.
Graciously express your thanks for the scrumptious meal and leave with a professional tone.

AFTER:

Send a thank you card 24 hours post-meal. Be sure to include key references from the interview and restate why you are the ideal candidate for the position.
If sending a physical card, make sure to choose one that is classy and professional, like the one above (these black and cream thank you cards).

These tips will help distinguish you as the most polished and refined candidate. Do not stress, do your research and be on your best manners the entire time. Good luck!

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

Career: Susan Gregg Koger, Entrepreneur and Founder of Modcloth

Susan Gregg Koger is an intelligent, sharp-witted woman in the vintage shopping world. Koger is the co-founder and chief creative officer of ModCloth, an online shopping boutique specializing in vintage fashions and thrifty finds. In 2013, Susan Gregg Koger (along with her husband Eric, co-founder and chief executive officer of ModCloth) was listed in the prestigious “30 Under 30,” a list of what Forbes describes as “tomorrow’s brightest stars.”

Susan Gregg Koger, always a fan of thrift shopping and a connoisseur of funky, vintage outfits and accessories, often bought outfits that were both her size and weren’t her size because she was always inspired to create new and cool ensembles from her discoveries. She was inspired by her now-husband Eric to begin selling some of her discoveries online to make extra cash during their college days, and in 2002, ModCloth was launched. Originally operating out of her dorm room, ModCloth now has over 90 employees and over 250 contributing designers.

Read on for five reasons we love Susan Gregg Koger.

1. She combines business with pleasure

When someone does what they love, they’re sure to yield the best results, and that is completely apparent when it comes to Koger and her relationship to ModCloth. Koger always loved vintage shopping, and after turning her hobby into a business in 2002 with Eric Koger, it transformed from a dorm room money-maker to a successful online business. In an interview with refinery29.com, Susan Gregg Koger said, “Both of us were attending Carnegie Mellon University at the time, and once we discovered the power of social commerce as a super powerful way to completely change the way fashion is consumed, the business grew... [today it is] a shopping site where customers get to decide what we sell.”

2. Koger and ModCloth alike maintain unique flair and authenticity

Koger is knowledgeable when it comes to discovering quirky and cute vintage ensembles, and it’s her authenticity (along with the authentic nature of her business) that really strikes a chord with College Gloss. Koger has said, “We’re not some big retailer telling you, ‘This is what you should be wearing.’” In an article with inc.com, Koger expressed the importance of ModCloth staying true to its customers: “ModCloth sets itself apart from other online clothing retailers through its authenticity.” Also, Koger and her employees understand that they need to work in the company’s target demographic -- women in their 20s -- and to stay true to what their customers like the most to remain a success.

3. Koger puts her customers on a pedestal

Susan Gregg Koger appreciates her ModCloth customers and always wants to work to service their wants and needs. Koger has said, “We really want the customers to be truly involved,” and ModCloth does exactly that. ModCloth features programs like “Be the Buyer” and “Make the Cut” that were developed specifically for its customers. “Be the Buyer” allows customers to vote on items that they would like to see carried by ModCloth, and “Make the Cut” is a contest in which customers and designers alike can submit their designs and have an opportunity to have them produced by ModCloth. Koger said, “Our customers have a voice in everything we do, right down to the naming, sourcing and designing of our wares.”

4. Koger mixes the old with the new

With a fresh, refined personal style, Kroger can be described as funky, quirky and sophisticated. She mixes vintage with some of the latest trends. In an interview with refinery29.com, Koger said, “I love getting dressed every day. I really believe personal style is a big part of your identity -- it shows the world who you are and who you want to be. I love color. I love vintage, and I love wearing ModCloth... I like to wear clothes that make me happy, and it’s always fun to share that joy with other people that I interact with.” Koger also has a huge style crush on No Doubt frontrunner and musician, Gwen Stefani. “She’s changed so much but always looks like Gwen -- and I really respect that.”

5. She’s always thinking outside of the box

Koger and her husband have always worked to keep their business fresh, interesting and meaningful to their first time shoppers and repeat customers. Besides selling one-of-a-kind pieces found by Koger herself, she realized that in order for ModCloth to both grow as a business while maintaining the integrity of the fashion that was showcased, something had to be done. Today, ModCloth offers retro-chic and fashion-forward ensembles from independent designers. Also, all items that are sold on ModCloth are described with colorful copy writing, offering suggestions of when to wear a piece and more in addition to the basics: color, size and availability.

Susan Gregg Koger is creative, intelligent and her approach to running her ModCloth business with husband Eric is an inspiration to College Gloss. Koger pays attention to her customer’s likes and dislikes, which has allowed ModCloth to become a forum of combining personal style while developing it into something new and exciting. ModCloth also offers fashionable pieces from many different designers, and in order to keep with the high demand of ModCloth fashions, 60 positions have been added in recent years, including stylists, bloggers and web developers. Koger flawlessly maintains the relationship between rocking vintage fashion, strong customer service skills and operating the creative layouts of her business -- be sure to check out ModCloth to become inspired like CG!

By: Mallory Feeney | Images: 1, 2

Meet Kirthiga Rajanayagam, Producer of Mass Exodus

Twenty-one-year-old Kirthiga Rajanayagam is a junior fashion communication major at Ryerson University in Toronto. However, Kirthiga is more than just a student ... she is also the producer of Mass Exodus, the largest student-run fashion event in North America! The show is put on by third-year fashion promotions students to showcase graduating fashion design and fashion communication students’ final collections.

“Mass Exodus is about the leaders of tomorrow’s fashion,” says Kirthiga. “My role as producer of Mass Exodus 2013 is to ensure our teams are working collectively towards this shared vision of the show and to hopefully create a positive and lasting impression on our guests who attend the show, as an unforgettable experience!”

Putting together Mass Exodus is no simple task. “It takes the dedication, perseverance and talent from 43 students in our fashion promotions class (divided into 29 members, 9 committee heads, 5 executives), with the guidance and direction of faculty members to put this event together,” says Kithirga. “It is a planning process that begins in September and doesn’t stop until the day of the show on April 11th, 2013.”

Kirthiga is extremely passionate about Ryerson University and says that working on Mass Exodus has been an experience unlike any other. Attending Ryerson has provided Kirthiga with direction in her career and she says that now, more than ever, she’s ready to take on the fashion industry!

“After I graduate, I hope to find a career in fashion productions. I also have an interest in public relations and event planning, so I’m not settling yet. I want to see what’s out there before I decide. We’ll see where life takes me!”

Kirthiga has always loved art and design and believes her passion for fashion is one of the reasons she loves being a part of Mass Exodus so much: “I’ve always lived by the philosophy that you should be proud of who you are and to take pride in knowing you’re an original; there will never be anyone like you. So why not make the most of life, and let your clothing, words and attitude speak for themselves?”

Mass Exodus took centerstage in Toronto, April 11, showcasing 48 unique fashion design collections and 57 original capstone projects, all presented on a 150-foot runway!

Keep in touch with Kirthiga through Twitter and Pinterest.

By: Annie Robinson | Image: Kirthiga Rajanayagam

Career Profile: Emily Henderson, Home Stylist

Emily Henderson is a superstar stylist, and differing from fashionistas like Rachel Zoe and Nicole Chavez who style celebrities for the red carpet, Henderson brings fresh looks to homes. Emily Henderson is a style guru of what’s hot and what’s not in home furnishings; her expertise ranges over a multitude of looks, from funky to modern to retro chic.

Henderson is an extremely talented creative force in the props and home furnishings department, and her imagination has thrived since childhood. Growing up in Oregon, Henderson lived in a household where they often reupholstered their own furniture and fashioned their own clothes. After she graduated from the University of Oregon, Henderson set across the country to continue her studies at The Pratt Institute in Brooklyn to study industrial design. Today, she is a celebrated interior designer, decorator, stylist and host of her own show on HGTV, "Secrets From a Stylist."

Read on for five reasons why College Gloss loves Emily Henderson.

1. Emily Henderson is a Design Star!

"Design Star" is an HGTV competition that follows 12 interior designers through unique (and sometimes odd) challenges, who have to design a space using specific items given to them. At the end of each season, one winner is chosen to have their own HGTV show, and Henderson was the winner of season five. Henderson brings her upbeat personality and elegant and eclectic style to her show, "Secrets From a Stylist." On the show, she caters to her clients’ ideas and thoughts about creating their perfect living space, combining both her sense of style to that of her clients’ likes. Every space that she revamps on the show has its own unique character and its own personal "Design Star" touch.

2. Her styling tips are both wise and economical

Both on-screen for her clients on "Secrets From a Stylist" and off-screen for her own home, Emily Henderson’s ideas for interior design spring from a multitude of places. Rather than focusing on just the expensive furniture showrooms, Henderson believes that finding and buying great furniture pieces can be a thrifty task over an expensive one. She often discovers and refurbishes the coolest pieces from antique galleries and flea markets. According to this classic-meets-modern stylist, instead of focusing on where furnishings were purchased or its price tag, a space should follow this design philosophy: “I believe an object or piece of furniture should be either functional, beautiful or sentimental, and if it can be all three, then that is design magic. I believe that comfort comes first, but style is a close second.”

3. To Henderson, fashion stretches beyond your closet

People around the world have their own individual approach to fashion and the way they dress, whether it be more vintage inspired or more so inspired by the latest designs seen from fashion week. Emily Henderson also believes that fashion and your sense of style should be exhibited not only by what you wear, but in your home. Henderson says on her blog, “I believe a home should look like the person that inhabits it, not a catalog, not what you think others would like -- but really, truly like you... Be the weird person. Be the interesting person... Have your home reflect who you are.”

4. Her inspiration springs from many places

Emily Henderson’s fashion and furnishing style expertise is inspired from many different outlets, especially when it comes films and the work of production designers. After reading Henderson’s thoughts and expressions of the use of props, moviegoers and fashionistas alike, will have a newfound appreciation for how props and sets help to set the tone for the story in a film. As Henderson has put it, “Production designers and set decorators are wildly underappreciated... Next time you watch a movie, please take note. It’s their job to help the story along, not to distract from it so we often don’t notice the sets.” Henderson is especially inspired by the sets of films like "A Clockwork Orange," "Marie Antoinette," "Down With Love," "500 Days of Summer" and "Atonement."

5. Her styling success expands beyond TV

Though "Secrets From a Stylist" brings a fun, youthful flair to HGTV, Henderson’s styling advice isn’t just put to use on television. She is the founder and writer of daily blog Style by Emily Henderson, and she has her own design firm in LA, where she helps many clients revive a space into something new, bold and exciting. Henderson said, “As a home style expert, I consult with brands, art direct photo shoots, and promote my brand and brands I love through my social media channels.” On top of all of this, Emily Henderson is a contributing editor for Buzzfeed and the Huffington Post.

Emily Henderson is a talented and trendsetting interior designer, and her home styling skills have been showcased on television and in publications like Martha Stewart, InStyle and Elle Decor and for advertisements of companies like Anthropologie and Target. Whether it be a house, an apartment or a dorm room, every living space could use a bit of feng shui every now and then. Henderson has inspired College Gloss to breathe some new life into designs, and her ideas and style tips and tricks are sure to jumpstart anyone’s latest home makeover project.

By: Mallory Feeney | Images: 1, 2, 3

Career Advice: How to Dress for Success

As if applying for jobs and landing the interview were not difficult enough, your interview attire speaks volumes and can be the ultimate deciding factor in whether or not a company employs you. As a young woman emerging into the job market, your apparel must always demonstrate seriousness and professionalism. You want to dress for success and for the job you passionately desire.

Below are three simple steps that guarantee you will establish yourself as the most polished and mature candidate.

1. Conservative outfits win. As young and beautiful college women, it is imperative not to blur the line between interview attire and a flashy Friday night ensemble. You want to land this dream job based on your merit and accomplishments, not on your provocative clothing and smokey black eyes. By dressing in a more conservative manner, you emphasize your real assets to the company and do not draw unnecessary attention or create office gossip. If wearing a skirt, its shortest length should be just above the knee paired with a neutral pantyhose.

2. Simple, yet stellar. Continuing with the conservative theme, chic and subtle jewelry is practical when accessorizing for interviews. You do not want to wear distracting or noisy jewelry during an interview, so you should leave your arm candy at home and sport your sophisticated watch instead. Also, wear the bare minimum perfume because some people are overly-sensitive to such odors, which can cause headaches.

3. Color me modest. An interview presents the employer with the opportunity to connect your glossy, 8.5’’ by 11’’ resume to a gracious and respected young woman. Be sure to stray away from pastels, neons and excessive patterns. Instead wear a neutral palette of colors like cream, navy, gray, charcoal and black. These darker colors make you appear more powerful and dignified.

Follow these easy steps to win over your interviewer. First impressions play a substantial role when hiring candidates, so shine bright in an elegant, conservative outfit with tasteful jewelry. Once you are employed, the company will notify you if they have a more casual and relaxed attire - until then, overdress!

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

Internship Advice from the Intern Queen, Lauren Berger

When it comes to internships, Lauren Berger is the queen bee. Berger is an intelligent go-getter and is CEO of her own business, InternQueen.com. Her website is a valuable resource to high school and college students looking to boost their resumés because not only does the site post the latest internships (based on the student’s major and the employer’s needs), but it also provides useful advice to students about how to enhance interning experiences.

Before graduating in 2006 with a degree in organizational business communications, Berger interned with nationally-acclaimed companies like NBC, MTV, FOX and the Showtime Network. Now, Berger explains to interns that they can do anything if they set their minds to it; every opportunity is a chance for success.

Read on for an exclusive College Gloss interview with Lauren Berger.

Your business-savvy skills not only helped you to complete many internships while studying in college, but they also paved the way for the founding of your successful business, Intern Queen, Inc. Where did the title “Intern Queen” originate from?
LB: It was sort of self-titled because I had completed 15 internships while in college. It was like a joke with my friends that I was like the queen of internships.

What types of internships did you complete while in college (social media, editorial, etc.)?
LB: My internships were more like PR, writing, journalism, marketing, stuff like that. Social media wasn’t as popular when I was interning.

What was the most valuable lesson you learned while interning?
LB: The most valuable lesson I learned was to never take no for an answer, and to put yourself out there, especially when interning. Never give up on anything that you do.

What advice would you give to incoming college freshmen in terms of internships?
LB: To definitely think about internships when you’re young, but to maybe just think about the ones that’d you be interested in doing after your freshman year. Freshman year you should really focus on school and get used to the routine.

What advice would you give to outgoing college seniors about the weight of internships?
LB: That completing internships is important, especially for potential job interviews. You really need them for today’s job market.

You’re very business chic -- where do you draw inspiration from for your sophisticated business looks?
LB: From Pinterest and Instagram and from some of my favorite designers. I always recommend practical, stylish office looks. Great places to check out are Nordstrom, Forever 21, Express, Limited and Macy’s. You should work with your wardrobe. Take your wardrobe as seriously as your work because its job is to complement you.

You’ve spoken all across the country at different college campuses and on television shows about your company and your internship experiences. What was your most memorable appearance?
LB: My most memorable appearance was on The Today Show because it’s huge, and Ann Curry interviewed me, which was extremely exciting. Also, they showed my family outside on TV, but it was funny because when they said it was my mom, the camera was actually on my aunt. My wish, though, is to be on The View.

What message do you always try to get across to your audiences?
LB: To be fearless. Not in the sense that you’re a superhero but to just be fearless. You’re going to be rejected, but keep pushing forward. Always remain fearless.

You’re also a published author of “All Work, No Pay.” When did you first think of publishing a sort of internship guide book?
LB: In 2006. It was on the brain for a long time, and at first, I got a lot of no’s. So, I decided to build up my platform before going for it again. As a young entrepreneur, rejection doesn’t mean never, it just means not now. You know, as one door closes, another one opens. Never give up! And now, I have a book published, and I’m working on a potential second book.

Your clothing line, Internal Ethiks, for your company is both cute and fun. Do you see any further expansions of your line? In what other ways would you like to further brand Intern Queen, Inc.?
LB: It’s not a focus right now, instead I’m focusing on giving entry-level career advice and to just continue helping students with career advice. But right now for Internal Ethiks we have “Keep Calm and Intern On” tees that are really popular on the Intern Queen site.

Lauren Berger is a smart and savvy internship expert, and she has offered valuable tips and tricks to college students, from how to complete a sophisticated business look, like on her Pinterest page, where there are a lot of stylish DIY’s and tutorials, to why it is critical to look at every internship opportunity as a resume and skills builder.

She is a great example of a student who mastered the balance between class, internships and extracurricular activities throughout her undergraduate career. College Gloss admires Lauren Berger’s gumption and passion for helping others -- she truly is the Intern Queen!

By: Mallory Feeney | Image: Source

4 Steps to Starting Your Own Business in College

In college, talent runs high, while money runs low. However, there’s no reason that this talent can’t be used to bring in some extra cash throughout college and, possibly, beyond. Founding a business can be time-consuming but well worth it -- just think of the student loans that saving up could help pay off. Here are a four simple steps to beginning a business.

1. Get In Where There’s Room

From food to fashion, there is always a demand for something -- just find a niche with a great demand, and get started!

Be patient, and keep in mind that it takes money to make money, meaning that it takes an investment to start a business. Consider borrowing the start-up costs from a parent or planning a fundraiser; the Small Business Administration recommends looking into government-backed loans and grants to help get started. Start-up costs vary for each business. Also, take advantage of any training that may better service.

2. Put it on Paper

According to Forbes, every savvy business plan should provide the following: a clear executive summary, a target market (demographic to benefit from the product), the competition and a team of individuals to work with (if any) and a business model. So get to writing a business plan for the company or product. Here’s a great template to follow.

Take advantage of the talent around campus and within different circles of friends when devising a team. With different majors, there’s someone who can help with each aspect of the business from advertising to designing. Remind them that it’s a great resume builder.

3. Give ‘em Something to Talk About

Start promoting the product, even without a physical product, and see what people’s thoughts are and how willing they are to make a purchase. Take the constructive criticism, and use it to improve the product. This will also boost familiarity with the product, so when it’s around campus, the audience know the answers to the five key questions: who, what, when, where and why in order to inform potential buyers. There are many inexpensive forms of promotion, such as word-of-mouth, flyers, blogs and social networks. If limited on startup costs, don’t hesitate to use these methods. After all, they’ve been used successfully for hundreds of years.

4. Read Between the Fine Print

Make sure to complete the proper documentation and file it. Don’t forget licensing and permits. Register the company to receive a tax identification number by contacting a local IRS office. When registering the company, remember policies vary by state; verify the guidelines for the specific business location with the U.S. Small Business Administration. This will help identify where to register and will prevent any unnecessary fees or citations.

For some entrepreneurial inspiration, check out College Gloss’ interview with Zoë Damacela, a college fashionista who began her own clothing line at age 14.

By: Kiarra Sylvester | Image: Source

Career: How to Network on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a powerful social networking tool utilized in the employment quest. It fosters friendships, builds networks and advances you towards your dream internship or career path. It is no surprise LinkedIn reached an overwhelming 200 million plus members in January 2013, worth 74 million of those members registered in the United States. LinkedIn is the best platform for your job search and networking, so stop spending as much time on Facebook, and build your online presence on this phenomenal, professional site.

The first step is creating an account, which is simple, quick and, best of all, free. LinkedIn caters to its members and if English is not your native or preferred language, you are offered 18 other languages to choose from. Fill out as many of the forms as you can and upload your current, perfected resume. Be sure to always update your profile with awards, job transitions and anything else pertinent to your career.

The next step is building your network. You are given the fantastic option to email all of your friends an invitation to connect; this is a simple method to quickly create countless connections, and you should take the opportunity. You should then add more connections by searching individuals names in the toolbar, acquiring more email addresses and finding people in shared circles. Sometimes you will know a significant amount of individuals listed on the right of the page under “connections you may know.”

You should also join groups you are interested in or belong to outside of the site. For example, if you are a member of the Student Government Association at your university, you would benefit from joining that national group to connect with other individuals and learn about exciting opportunities.

Once you have a decent amount of connections, join other groups that interest or fascinate you and provide individuals with helpful feedback to their questions and posts. The beautiful feature of LinkedIn is that it you can help others achieve their dreams and steer them in the right direction, and others will do the same for you, too.

In short, create an account, update your profile, get linked with your contacts, join groups, answer questions and watch your online presence exponentially grow. You should frequent LinkedIn often to learn about job postings and stay relevant in the growing professional world.

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

Career: How to Ace Your Interview

For many college women, just the thought of an interview causes anxiety. The employer will be connecting your meticulously-crafted resume (that got you the interview in the first place) with you, a real, live person. And chances are, they have several other impressive, qualified candidates. This process presents you with the opportunity (and challenge) to outshine your fellow competition and ace the interview.

Whether you are applying for a part-time, entry-level or post-graduation gig, you must always fully research the organization. Learn everything, the ins and outs, from its founding to its current economic state. Learning about the organization provides you with insightful knowledge about its employee work ethic and how they collaborate on projects and view peculiar situations.

Prepare, practice and plan answers to frequently asked interview questions. These questions are conventionally not difficult but may be slightly harder when put on the spot by the person in the suit. Questions may include:

“Why are you the best-suited candidate for this position?”
“What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
“What has your greatest achievement been?”
“Are you a team player?”
“How has your previous work experience shaped you into a fit candidate?”

Since you applied for this particular job, you should know these answers. Just rehearse your responses until the words roll off your tongue in a conversational manner.

Prepare questions for the end of the interview. This is an often-overlooked interview secret but can significantly sway the employer your way. After an interview, the last thing an employer wants to hear is that you have absolutely no questions; something must have piqued your curiosity. Create interesting, captivating questions, piecing together bits of information throughout the interview that will leave a lasting impression.

Just like everything else, practice makes perfect. Remember, the first few interviews will be intimidating, but it will become more natural with time and rehearsal. Don’t forget to smile, and good luck!

By: Claire Walton | Image: Source

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