Blackburn College - Careers FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions at Blackburn College

1. When should I take the GRE (Graduate Records Exam) and where can I take it?
           a. If you are planning on going to graduate school and you know the college or university requires the GRE , I would recommend you take it during the summer between your junior and senior year at Blackburn. Certainly no later than October of your junior year. All tests administered in the US now are computer-based. There is a testing center in Springfield, IL that offers the GRE 6 days weekly. There are many other centers around Illinois. Check the GRE web site for one near you.

2. I want to go to graduate school, when should I apply?
           a. Each college or university is different and you should always consult the web sites of the schools and programs you have chosen. However, generally most graduate programs will close admissions around the middle of March for programs beginning in the fall of the same year. The earlier you apply the better. Certainly fall of the year prior to your intended start date is not too soon.

3. I don’t have a resume. Will I really need one before the semester of my graduation?
           a. Yes! It is a good idea to begin to build your resume when you enter college (if you haven’t done so before). Your resume is a dynamic document and should change as you gain more education and experience. Having a resume while an freshman or sophomore can come in handy for applying to work program jobs, internships and part-time jobs also.

4. How do I start a resume?
           a. One of the best ways to begin to create a resume is to use an existing template and modify it to meet your needs. Most of the job search web sites (Career Builder, Monster, Yahoo Jobs, etc.) have Resume hints. This Microsoft site http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/default.aspx contains several templates you can modify. Of course, the best way is to take CA 401 Career Search Seminar and/or see the Office of Career Services at Blackburn for help.

5. Some one told me I need “special” paper for my resume. Is that true?
          a. Resumes that are submitted in hard copy to a potential employer should be written (word processed) on resume quality paper. This is usually 24-pound linen finished bond paper and should be in a white or off white shade. Blackburn students can get resume paper in limited quantities FREE from the Office of Career Services.

6. I know I will not wear a suit in my job, is it necessary to wear a suit to an interview?
          a. YES! Even though the career field you are pursuing allows more casual dress, you are better off wearing a suit and tie (sport coat and tie at a minimum) to a job interview. For women a suit with a skirt or slacks is preferred. Dress conservatively for an interview. Wear minimal jewelry, be clean and well groomed and remember it is far better to be over dressed than under dressed!

7. I don’t have a clue what to major in. How does one go about choosing a major?
           a. Well, most students choose their major based on what they like, what they are good at or what their boyfriend/girlfriend is majoring in. That is not necessarily the best way to choose. It is better to choose your major based on interest inventories and career goals. If you need help the Office of Career Services has assessments and tools designed to take the mystery out of choosing a major.

8. Once I graduate from Blackburn can I still use the services of the Office of Career Services?
           a. OF COURSE! Career services are available to current students as well as alums. If at any time in your professional life you need or want the services of a career counselor, do not hesitate to contact the Office of Career Services.

9. What if I decide that Blackburn is not the best place for me? Can I get help transferring to another college or university?
           a. Yes, of course. While it is our goal to help you get the most out of your Blackburn experience, we realize that there are circumstances that might necessitate a transfer to another institution of higher learning. Talk to the career services staff. We can help with that process.

10. I know I need to be searching for a job, but I just don’t have the time. How can you help?
           a. Career services staff can do job searches for you. Just tell us what your career goal is and where you hope to locate. We can do the rest. And we can also help you locate a suitable graduate program if that is your goal.

To schedule a visit call: 800-233-3550