ǧÃŬAV

Concerned about finding a job? Learn from Komal Dahya’s success story…

What kinds of things did you do while in college to prepare you for your professional life after college, or to make yourself more marketable?

In order to prepare myself for my professional life after college, I did a few things. I was involved in various extracurricular activities, including the Society of Chemistry Students, the Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities, Rotaract, and Asian Student Association. Being a member of the executive board for all of these activities helped me acquire many leadership skills. I was also involved in undergraduate research, which helped me learn and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills during my time in lab. Through my undergraduate research, I had several opportunities to present in national meetings/conferences, enabling me to practice my communication and professional skills with professionals in my career field. I was also a member of the American Chemical Society, which is a scientific society that supports scientific inquiry in the field of chemistry.

How did you hear about (or find) your current position?

A former chemistry student who graduated from ǧÃŬAV reached out to the professors in the chemistry department concerning a job opportunity at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). My research advisor, Dr. Dansby-Sparks, let me know about the opportunity, so I sent my resume and a list of laboratory skills and received a call for an interview within a week or so.

What advice would you like to give to current students to help prepare them for careers and/or the job search after college?

Use your resources! Discussing your future career with your academic advisor or any other professor in your department is a great start. They have been through this and will be willing to help you! I would definitely use all of the resources Career Services offers. They are great at helping you build and alter your resume for it to appear more professional. Also, taking advantage of the mock interviews offered by Career Services will help you better prepare yourself for any future interview. It’s never too early to start; the earlier, the better! Continuously trying and not giving up is also a must! I interviewed with the CDC three times before I received my current job.