Navigating the job market as a recent graduate can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can land your first role. This episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast covers the entire process, starting with interview preparation. We'll break down how to answer common questions about your strengths, weaknesses, and leadership experience, and why you should always have questions prepared for the interviewer. Next, we dive into crafting the perfect entry-level resume and cover letter, even if you have no formal work experience. Learn how to highlight academic projects, volunteer work, and transferable skills to catch an employer's eye. We’ll also discuss the power of networking and how platforms like LinkedIn can connect you with recruiters and alumni. Finally, we’ll cover post-interview etiquette, including how and when to send follow-up emails to thank interviewers, check on your application status, or simply stay in touch. Tune in for practical tips to help you move from campus to career with confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Landing your first job can feel daunting, especially when creating a resume with little to no formal work experience. In today's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we break down how to build a standout resume by reframing what counts as experience. Learn to highlight academic projects, volunteer work, campus involvement, and even part-time jobs to demonstrate valuable transferable skills like leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. We cover key differences between a UK CV and a US resume, emphasizing regional expectations like length, formatting, and spelling. Discover the essential sections to include, from a compelling personal statement to a detailed education history. You'll get practical tips on choosing the right format—like the reverse-chronological or functional—and how to use action verbs and quantifiable achievements to show potential employers you're ready to contribute from day one. Whether you're a high school student or a recent grad, these strategies will help you craft a professional resume that opens doors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Situational, or behavioral-based, interview questions can be intimidating, especially for young professionals without much formal work experience. In today's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we discuss how these questions, which often start with "Tell me about a time when...," are designed to assess a candidate's problem-solving skills, adaptability, and teamwork based on past experiences. To answer effectively, experts recommend the STAR method: describe the Situation, the Task you had to complete, the Action you took, and the Result of your efforts. Even without a formal job history, you can draw on experiences from internships, class projects, volunteer work, or even personal situations like resolving a conflict with roommates. The key is to prepare specific, concise stories that highlight your transferable skills. Practice telling these stories out loud to build confidence. If you genuinely don't have a relevant experience, it's acceptable to explain how you would handle the hypothetical situation, showcasing your thought process and potential. This preparation helps you make a strong, positive impression on interviewers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we explore the dynamic world of internships, offering essential advice for both students and employers. We'll discuss why winter break is a surprisingly effective time for students to search for summer internships, update their resumes, and expand their professional network. For employers, we'll highlight innovative hiring strategies that go beyond the traditional resume, such as using skills-based assessments, video applications, and project-based tasks to find enthusiastic and adaptable candidates. We also dive into the critical importance of the fall recruiting season, particularly September, which has become a key month for securing top talent early. The conversation covers various internship types, including off-cycle and spring programs, which offer valuable alternatives and less competition. Whether you're a student struggling to find a position or an employer looking to improve your hiring process, this episode provides actionable strategies to navigate the competitive internship landscape and make meaningful connections. And remember, it's just as important to take breaks and practice self-care to avoid burnout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Negotiating a job offer can feel daunting, but it's a crucial step that sets the tone for your financial future. Failing to negotiate your initial salary can have a significant compounding effect, potentially costing you hundreds of thousands of dollars over your career. On today's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we discuss why it's essential to do your homework before you even receive an offer. Research industry salary trends for your role, location, and experience level. Understand your "walk-away" number—the minimum you need to cover expenses and meet your goals. When you receive an offer, always take time to review the entire compensation package, not just the base salary. Perks like extra vacation days, remote work options, professional development funds, and better benefits can add significant value. When you're ready to make a counteroffer, express enthusiasm for the role and clearly articulate the value you bring. Focus the conversation on your skills and market value, not your previous salary. Remember, negotiation is a collaborative process, not a confrontation. By approaching it with confidence and preparation, you can secure an offer that truly reflects your worth and sets you up for long-term success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we dive deep into what it takes to not just get a job, but to excel in your career and become an indispensable member of your team. We’ll explore the fifteen critical traits of top performers, from being action-oriented and solutions-focused to having infectious enthusiasm and a commitment to continuous learning. Beyond these traits, we’ll discuss how to build strong, positive relationships at work, which are crucial for job satisfaction and creating a supportive, collaborative environment. Finally, we'll cover practical strategies to make yourself "layoff-proof." This involves aligning your work with company goals, seeking mentorship, and consistently upskilling. By focusing on these key areas—personal attributes, professional relationships, and strategic career management—you can build a reputation that makes you a true asset to any organization. Tune in to learn how to cultivate these qualities and secure your career success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crafting the perfect resume and cover letter is a crucial first step toward landing your dream job. On today's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we discuss how a strong resume acts as your personal marketing tool, offering a brief, informative summary of your relevant abilities, education, and experience.  It's essential to tailor your resume for each position, using active language and quantifying your accomplishments to highlight your impact. Avoid common mistakes like spelling errors, passive language, and failing to include contact information. For those with limited formal work history, such as students or recent graduates, showcasing academic, volunteer, or personal projects is key. These experiences demonstrate valuable transferable skills and initiative. Your cover letter complements your resume by telling your story, connecting your specific skills to the employer's needs, and expressing genuine interest in the role. Together, these documents should present a consistent, professional, and compelling case for why you are the ideal candidate for an interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While many worry about AI replacing jobs, the reality is more complex. On this episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we discuss how AI is transforming industries by automating tasks, which requires professionals to adapt, rather than replacing humans entirely.  The key to future-proofing your career is to embrace lifelong learning and focus on uniquely human skills like creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. Recent studies show that entry-level roles, particularly in fields like software development, have seen a decline as AI handles routine tasks once performed by junior employees. This has made the job market tougher for recent graduates. However, this shift is also creating new, in-demand careers focused on human-AI collaboration, such as prompt engineering, AI ethics, and AI maintenance. To stay relevant, workers should focus on upskilling, learning to use AI as a tool to enhance their capabilities, and evolving with the changing technological landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Graduating from college is an exciting milestone, but it also brings the daunting question of "what's next?" On this episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we discuss how planning for your post-graduation life is essential for a successful transition into the professional world. This involves setting clear, actionable goals for both your career and personal life. Creating a roadmap, like a five-year plan, can transform vague aspirations into concrete steps, providing clarity and motivation. Key elements for success include continuous learning and upskilling to stay competitive, as well as networking to uncover opportunities. Finding a mentor can provide invaluable guidance and support as you navigate early career challenges. Remember to also focus on financial planning by creating a budget and managing debt wisely. While career growth is important, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and taking care of your mental well-being are crucial for long-term fulfillment. With careful planning, a growth mindset, and a strong support system, you can confidently navigate the post-graduation journey and build a successful future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of "From Dorms to Desks," we explore why internships are a critical building block for your career. In today's competitive job market, a degree alone isn't enough; hands-on experience is what sets you apart. We discuss how internships serve as a bridge from the classroom to the professional world, allowing you to develop essential skills, build a professional network, and gain clarity on your career path. Internships are also a low-risk way for professionals of any age to "test drive" a new career before making a full commitment. We tackle the important debate around unpaid internships, outlining your rights and why paid opportunities often lead to better outcomes. Finally, we cover the evolution of internships—including remote, part-time, and Micro-Internships—that provide flexible, accessible options for everyone, from student-athletes to working parents. Tune in to learn how to make the most of these invaluable opportunities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast tackles the longstanding dilemma of needing experience to secure a job, while often needing a job to gain that very experience. Our hosts delve into a crucial shift in the 2025 job market, revealing that employers are increasingly valuing skills, potential, and adaptability over traditional work history. You will discover that everyone, including those with no formal work history, already possesses valuable experience through diverse life circumstances. The key lies in recognizing and articulating these experiences effectively. The discussion emphasizes that your job is to inventory your existing skills, identify those relevant to potential employers, and then market them expertly. This means actively gaining experience through various avenues such as paid work, volunteering, academic projects, and even personal initiatives. For instance, seemingly ordinary experiences like "watching your little cousins" can be transformed into demonstrable skills like "planning events, handling logistics, and leading a team" for your resume. The hosts illustrate how to highlight transferable skills, whether they stem from volunteer efforts, classwork, or casual jobs like babysitting, focusing on their applicability to a professional setting. Learn to showcase vital interpersonal skills such as teamwork, effective communication, initiative, and follow-through, alongside digital literacy and problem-solving abilities, which are highly sought after by today's employers. The episode provides practical advice on how to strategically tailor your resume and cover letter for each specific position. This involves emphasizing your potential and passion through accomplishment-oriented descriptions and by mirroring the language used in job descriptions to navigate automated hiring tools. You will also gain insights on confidently approaching interviews, where telling compelling stories that demonstrate your initiative, reliability, and coachability can be far more impactful than a traditional work history. Remember, your education, extracurricular activities, and self-initiated projects are powerful indicators of your capabilities. Beyond refining application materials, the podcast highlights the critical role of networking and continuous learning. Building a strong professional network, engaging with alumni, and attending industry events can lead to invaluable mentorship opportunities and job leads, often revealing "hidden" positions. Furthermore, pursuing additional training or short-term certifications can address any skill gaps, especially in rapidly evolving fields such as Artificial Intelligence or the Green Economy, which are increasingly accessible to newcomers due to their focus on up-to-date skills and aptitude. This proactive approach ensures you are continuously developing the competencies most valued by employers in today's dynamic job market. This encouraging and practical episode will empower you to objectively assess the skills you've developed, effectively communicate them to employers, and strategically acquire any missing ones. It underscores that your lack of conventional work experience is no longer the barrier it once was, as approximately seventy percent of job listings now either omit experience requirements or actively welcome candidates with none. By implementing these strategies, focusing on your potential, adaptability, and demonstrable skills, you can confidently navigate the current job market and successfully launch your career, even if you are a first-time job seeker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the From Dorms to Desks Podcast helps students and recent grads navigate the murky waters of job descriptions because, let's face it, they often hide more than they reveal. Our cohosts walk you through developing your bullsh*t radar so you can stop swiping right on the wrong job and find a role that truly aligns with you. First, we decode the buzzwords. "Fast-paced environment" often means tight deadlines, constant changes, and multitasking, potentially signaling a chaotic, disorganized workplace with an expectation of long hours. A "self-starter" implies you'll act without much direction, which can be a red flag for a lack of support or resources. A "dynamic team player" might hint at high turnover and an expectation that you'll take on multiple roles without extra pay. "Innovative thinking" could mean they want you to do all the creative heavy lifting, while "results-oriented" often points to unrealistic expectations. When a job emphasizes "attention to detail," it might be a subtle warning of tedious work or a micromanaging boss. And "excellent communication skills"? That could mean the company has rigid expectations for how you speak and interact. Beyond these, keep an eye out for other red flags. "We work hard, we play hard" often translates to a demanding environment where token perks mask the grind. If they claim to be "like a family," be wary of an abusive work dynamic where boundaries are nonexistent. For sales roles touting "OTE/uncapped commission," be realistic; these figures are often inflated. A "competitive salary" is frequently code for below-average pay, and while "unlimited PTO" sounds fantastic, it can guilt employees into taking very little time off. Lastly, "other duties as assigned" allows management to hand you any task, and if a company is "always hiring," it could be a sign of high turnover rather than growth. Here’s how to research companies and unmask these postings. Start by scrutinizing the company's website, looking for insights into their mission and values. Then, head to social media like LinkedIn and TikTok to observe their tone and personality. Glassdoor is your best friend for unfiltered reviews from current and former employees that expose the true workplace environment. The most powerful tool is speaking to current employees. Leverage your network, attend career fairs, or reach out to alumni. Don't be afraid to drill down with specific questions during interviews. If "fast-paced" is mentioned, ask, "When was the last time the team had to work weekends?" or "How many people are working after hours?" Inquire about work-life balance, performance metrics, and professional support—these details shouldn't be a mystery. By taking these proactive steps and asking the right questions, you'll be better equipped to determine if a job is truly the right fit, sparing yourself from unwelcome surprises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you really make a video resume? Are TikTok resumes brilliant or terrible ideas? Bold or blasé? Join us as we explore the dynamic world of creative applications and whether they truly help you stand out, or if they might just land you in a meme. On one side, the more cautious voice reminds us that some experts warn video resumes are prone to bias and discrimination during the hiring process, potentially opening a door that hiring managers have long worked to keep shut. It is noted that simply seeing a person can allow for discrimination based on appearance, accent, gender, skin color, and even speech impediments, which traditional resumes often protect against. Privacy is also a significant concern, especially when videos are posted publicly on social media platforms, posing a huge potential for identity theft or stalking. Furthermore, most applicant tracking systems, or ATS, are not compatible with video content, meaning your application might not even be seen by a human recruiter. Recruiters often prefer traditional resumes in Word or PDF format, with some surveys indicating a strong preference for paper over video or infographic resumes. Creating a polished video resume can also be time-consuming, requiring planning, scripting, filming, and editing, and not everyone feels comfortable on camera. However, the enthusiastic perspective highlights that video resumes can be a wonderful way to build an inclusive environment and diverse workforce. They offer more room for expression than conventional resumes, allowing job seekers to demonstrate communication skills, creativity, demeanor, and personality. In a competitive job market where an average opening receives hundreds of applications, a polished digital resume can grab attention and leave a lasting impression, giving recruiters a much better feel for the candidate much more quickly. They can show you are comfortable with digital tools and emerging technologies, which is a valuable skill in today’s remote world. Some studies have even found that video resumes can increase callback rates significantly, for both able-bodied and disabled workers. So, when is a video resume a smart move? It is highly recommended if the job posting specifically requests or welcomes video submissions. Video resumes are particularly great for creative or communication-centric roles like marketing, sales, media, public speaking, customer service, or even entertainment, where presentation skills and personality are key. They can also be effective for explaining an unconventional career story or for entry-level candidates looking to stand out. If the company culture screams innovation, such as startups or modern tech firms, a video resume might be appreciated. Conversely, a traditional resume remains the go-to for formal industries like finance, law, or healthcare, or when submitting to job portals that use ATS software. If you are not comfortable on camera, or if a video simply won’t add much value to selling your skills for a highly technical position like an accountant, it might be best to stick to traditional formats. To ensure your video resume is memorable for the right reasons and doesn't become a viral mishap, focus on executing decent quality. This means having clear audio, steady framing, and good lighting. Write a script in advance and practice it until it sounds natural and concise, typically keeping it under 90 to 120 seconds. Dress professionally, matching the attire to the industry. You can use video resume maker tools that offer templates and guidance. Crucially, always remember that a video resume should accompany, never replace, the traditional resume. You can host it as an unlisted link on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo, and then add the link to your PDF resume, embed it in emails, or leverage LinkedIn. A hybrid approach, using both, gives you the chance to pass ATS screening while still showcasing your digital skills and personality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this empowering episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we tackle the often-intimidating world of professional networking for first-generation college students and graduates. We understand that for many, the idea of ‘consulting’ or finding connections within an industry can feel completely foreign, especially when your family might not have direct experience in those fields. This episode is for anyone who feels like networking is akin to asking strangers for a kidney—we’ve been there too, and we’re here to demystify the process. We dive into how first-generation students, who often lack a built-in professional network, can effectively navigate the job market. A key takeaway is the importance of early planning, starting your internship search six to eight months in advance, and defining your professional career journey as early as possible. It’s not just about securing a job, but about deeply learning about your chosen field in ways textbooks can’t capture. We emphasize the need to expand your job search beyond advertised listings, even asking businesses directly if they’d be open to taking on an intern, and considering diverse industries where your degree skills are transferable. Networking is paramount, and we explain how to approach it effectively. This includes leveraging your unique background and experiences as a first-generation student, highlighting your resilience, determination, and diverse perspective as strengths in your personal narrative. Don't hide your first-generation status; trumpet it as a form of diversity on your resume to stand out to recruiters. We also discuss the power of seeking mentorship and networking within your community, attending career fairs, workshops, and community events to uncover unadvertised opportunities. For online networking, we highlight the invaluable tools of social media platforms like LinkedIn and X. Learn how to connect with industry professionals, engage meaningfully, and utilize your school's LinkedIn alumni page as a powerful resource to connect with graduates who are eager to help. A significant portion of our discussion focuses on informational interviews, explaining how these casual conversations allow you to gain insights into industries and career paths, expand your network in a non-threatening way, and potentially uncover job opportunities without the pressure of a formal job interview. Finally, we share insights on gaining hands-on experience, noting that employers value demonstrated ability, whether it comes from a paid part-time role, seasonal work, or an internship. We encourage you to be confident in your abilities, apply for opportunities even if you don't feel fully qualified, and be candid about your financial needs, advocating for fair compensation. Remember, you have a unique perspective to bring to the workforce, and with creative networking and determination, finding the right opportunity is entirely achievable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the cohosts of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast dig into the unadvertised opportunities that can be your secret weapon in the job market. We know you love job boards like College Recruiter, but they aren’t the only game in town—and today we’re spilling the fries on a secret menu of job-search hacks. For years, you’ve probably heard that 70–80% of roles live in a “hidden job market,” filled through internal moves, referrals, or direct outreach. Employers often skip public postings to protect confidentiality, control the applicant pool, or hire quickly through existing networks. That’s still real—especially for senior, niche, and very small-company roles—and it’s why simply replying to listings has limits. At the same time, the landscape has shifted. With digital transparency, company career sites, regulations, and aggregators, many experts now believe 60–80% of U.S. jobs are advertised at least briefly. The catch? Advertised roles draw crowded pipelines, and many get filled early—sometimes before the posting gains traction. Translation: job boards are useful, but they’re just a slice of the pie. So how do you unlock the rest? By getting proactive and a little bold: Network like it matters—because it does. The strongest opportunities still move through trust. Relationship-building opens doors to unposted roles, warm referrals, insider intel, and confidence. You’ll see stats claiming ~85% of jobs are filled via connections; whether or not the exact number fits your field, the signal is clear. Get specific about your goals, map your current circles (friends, family, classmates, former coworkers), and schedule short informational chats. Show up at industry events, conferences, workshops, and trade shows. Join professional associations that share members-only roles. On LinkedIn, tighten your profile, post thoughtful takes, and join relevant discussions. Participate in niche online communities. Then nurture your network—follow up, be useful, and practice reciprocity. Reach out directly. Don’t wait for a posting to give you permission. Identify organizations you admire and message the people who can say “let’s talk” (hiring managers, team leads, department heads, sometimes executive assistants). In a concise note, reference something specific you respect about their work, connect your skills to their problems, make a soft ask (“open to a quick chat?”), and say thanks. Think of it as telling your story on their stage: why them, why you, why now. Pair LinkedIn with email, stay professional and human, and remember—polite persistence beats one-and-done. Use niche job boards to narrow the noise. Specialized platforms surface roles tailored to your skills that may never hit the big aggregators. Examples: College Recruiter (early-career roles worldwide), TechCareers (technology), MarketingHire (marketing/advertising), Hcareers (hospitality), Bot-Jobs (conversational AI). For seekers, that means faster signal; for employers, a tighter pool of qualified candidates. Set targeted alerts so the right openings find you first. The big idea: combine robust networking, thoughtful cold outreach, and smart use of specialized boards. That mix gives you an insider’s edge—so you’ll spot opportunities early, skip the stampede, and have real conversations with the people who make hiring decisions. In a market where more roles are visible yet fiercely competitive, this approach helps you stand out, get in early, and land offers others never even knew existed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, our cohosts dive into a topic that barely existed a few years ago: how artificial intelligence tools like Gemini and ChatGPT are ushering in a new economic era, transforming the path from college to the workforce. This shift is already visible across sectors from technology and finance to media and law. For the first time, unemployment among recent graduates has exceeded the overall jobless rate, with some experts pointing to AI’s impact on entry-level roles, which appear more vulnerable than senior positions. Compounding the challenge are lingering pandemic effects, which limited networking opportunities and slowed the development of critical social skills. AI tools can be invaluable throughout the job search. They can help craft resumes and cover letters, suggest keywords, improve formatting, and generate tailored versions for specific roles. They support interview prep by creating practice questions, offering response guidance, and surfacing insights on company culture. Career exploration becomes more accessible as AI suggests paths aligned with a candidate’s skills and values, provides salary and job outlook data, and interprets complex postings. Some platforms even streamline applications by auto-applying at scale. Still, effectiveness depends on responsible use. Recruiters are quick to spot AI-generated language, making over-reliance counterproductive. AI should serve as inspiration and refinement, not a one-stop solution. Users must also protect their data by never sharing personal information on these platforms. Career services teams are actively grappling with ethical implications, student privacy concerns, and the breakneck pace of AI development. As AI automates more technical tasks, soft skills rise in importance. Experts emphasize problem solving, communication, curiosity, compassion, creativity, and courage. Hiring is shifting away from academic pedigree toward interpersonal and cognitive strengths. Graduates are urged to deliberately cultivate these skills—practicing public speaking, participating in group discussions, and showcasing social ability directly on resumes. Recruiters still prize human connection. To thrive in this evolving market, graduates should become fluent in AI by experimenting, comparing outputs, and rigorously fact-checking content. Beyond tools, they must evaluate employers carefully, seeking companies that invest in employees and use AI responsibly rather than purely for replacement. Asking about career progression, learning opportunities, and workforce development during interviews can reveal a company’s true priorities. Universities are adapting in real time, with career services forming working groups and creating toolkits to guide students toward ethical, effective AI use. The message is clear: AI is reshaping the entry into work, but those who pair fluency in new tools with strong human skills will remain competitive and in demand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finding a great new job is almost never easy. A lot of factors come into play, including timing. On this week's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, our cohosts focus on the issue of timing, specifically whether it's simply the wrong time of the year to find an internship.  Everyone on LinkedIn is already posting about their summer internships, and you’re just now realizing… oops. Don't worry, if you're feeling that sinking sensation that you've missed the boat on summer internships, you're not alone, and it's absolutely not too late! While it might feel like the major corporate programs have closed their doors, a significant percentage of summer internships are actually secured in the spring, with many offers coming in March, April, May, and even June. This is especially true for industries outside of finance, consulting, and big tech, and for opportunities at smaller companies, startups, and non-profits, which often hire year-round based on immediate needs rather than strict seasonal calendars. The key to finding a meaningful opportunity now is to embrace a more proactive and creative approach. Instead of waiting for postings, take the initiative to create your own opportunities. Research companies you admire and pitch yourself directly, proposing specific value-driven initiatives or projects where you can solve a problem or fill an operational gap. Show them you understand their current challenges and how your skills can provide immediate value. This approach can be particularly effective with mid-sized firms and logistics companies, which often have flexible hiring practices. If traditional internships aren't available, consider unconventional roles. This could mean exploring remote internships, short-term projects, or part-time positions that offer management-related experience. Even volunteering can open doors and provide valuable exposure. Remember that your existing work experiences, even current part-time jobs, can be utilized as a viable alternative to traditional internships, helping you achieve career competencies. Don't forget to leverage your network by reaching out to alumni, professors, and industry professionals, as personal connections frequently lead to unlisted opportunities. When preparing your materials, focus on showcasing transferable skills from your coursework, personal projects, or leadership roles. Even without direct internship experience, you have valuable skills to highlight. You might also want to think ahead and start applying for fall internships, as many companies are already filling those spots, and off-cycle programs often have less competition and can lead to full-time offers. Persistence is paramount, and by staying open-minded and adaptable, you'll discover that there are still plenty of options to help you gain the experience you need and kick-start your professional journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, our cohosts talk about how some students, recent graduates, and other job applicants tirelessly apply for jobs with little success. If you're experiencing that, you're not alone. It turns out that more than a third of all jobs posted online are actually not real vacancies, a phenomenon often referred to as "ghost" or "fake" jobs. One survey revealed that 81% of recruiters admit to posting these fake advertisements. This can lead to wasted time, emotional toll, and job search burnout for eager applicants. So, why do employers engage in this deceptive practice? Companies post fake job listings for a variety of reasons. Some aim to scout for a talent pool for future openings, even when no immediate vacancy exists, or to gather resumes to keep on file. Others use them to project an image of growth and dynamism, or to make current employees believe their workload will be alleviated, or even to make them feel replaceable. In some cases, a job might appear online due to regulatory or contractual requirements, even if an internal candidate has already been selected. Beyond ghost jobs, there are various forms of employment fraud, from recruitment agent fraud where recruiters misrepresent wages, to scams involving fake job offers from individuals posing as company employees. Other common scams include work-from-home money laundering schemes, mystery shopper scams, and requests for payment for nonexistent job placements. The good news is, you can become adept at spotting these red flags. Be highly suspicious if a job sounds too good to be true, offering exceptionally high pay for minimal work or no experience. Pay close attention to unprofessional or suspicious communication. This includes emails from generic addresses like Gmail or Yahoo instead of a company domain, or messages riddled with poor grammar and spelling errors. A major red flag is any request for sensitive personal or financial information upfront, such as your Social Security number, banking details, or credit card information, especially before you're hired. Legitimate employers will never ask you to pay a fee for background checks, training, equipment, or placement services. Be cautious if there's no verifiable company information, such as a poorly designed website lacking company history or the job not appearing on their official careers page. Also, vague job descriptions that lack clarity on responsibilities or reporting structure are often a sign of a scam. Be wary if you're offered the job without a proper interview or assessment of your skills, or if the process is conducted solely via text or email with no video or phone calls. Finally, consider how long the job posting has been active; ghost jobs often remain online for weeks or months. Research companies before engaging: check their official website, LinkedIn for real employees, and reviews on Glassdoor or Indeed. Always verify recruiter identity through LinkedIn or by calling the company directly. Ask specific questions about the role; refusal to answer is a red flag. Filter searches to recent postings (within a week). If something feels off, trust your instincts. If scammed, act fast: report to the job board (LinkedIn, Indeed), notify the FTC or local labor department, change passwords, monitor accounts, and contact payment providers if money was sent. Staying alert protects you from fraudulent opportunities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, we tackle the mystery of why your resume seems to vanish into a black hole after you apply for jobs online. That black hole has a name: the Applicant Tracking System, or ATS. In this practical episode, we break down exactly what ATS software is and why it's a critical gatekeeper for early-career job seekers, affecting whether a human ever even sees your application. You might be applying to jobs and wondering why you never hear back, even if you meet the qualifications; the software is often the reason. An ATS is a powerful piece of software used by nearly all large employers and many smaller ones to manage the hiring process, from posting jobs to scheduling interviews. However, these systems do more than just track candidates; many now use artificial intelligence or algorithmic logic to evaluate resumes, deciding which ones rise to the top and which sink to the bottom. When you apply, the ATS parses your resume, extracting key data like job titles, skills, and education, and then compares them against the job posting requirements, often assigning you a score. Recruiters typically see the highest-ranked candidates first, and in high-volume roles, they may never even look at resumes buried at the bottom of the list. This means that if the ATS scores your resume poorly, you are effectively rejected by the software before a human ever has a chance to consider you, even if you don't receive an explicit rejection email. The impact of ATS goes beyond just individual job searches; its decision-making capabilities have even led to legal challenges, such as the Mobley v. Workday lawsuit. This case alleges that ATS platforms are functionally acting as staffing companies by making hiring decisions, raising questions about potential liability under anti-discrimination laws if their algorithms disproportionately disadvantage certain groups. The outcome of such cases could significantly reshape how these tools are designed and used, potentially even forcing greater transparency in their scoring algorithms. While navigating these invisible filters can feel overwhelming, there are clear steps you can take to increase your chances of getting past the machine and into the human part of the hiring process. Always tailor your resume to each specific job description, incorporating the exact phrases and keywords used in the posting. Be sure to list your relevant skills, certifications, and job titles using language that matches what the ATS expects. It's also crucial to avoid complex graphics, tables, or non-standard formatting that can confuse resume parsers. Finally, remember not to rely solely on online applications; whenever possible, try to secure a referral or reach out to someone within the company to help flag your application. By understanding how to "write a love letter to a robot" and ensure it doesn't get deleted on sight, you can significantly improve your odds, because right now, if the software doesn't like your resume, it effectively decides your fate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of From Dorms to Desks, our cohosts dive into one of the most frustrating job market experiences: ghosting. As they put it, "You clicked apply and waited. And waited. And… nothing. Ghosted again." Sometimes it’s not personal—your résumé may be the culprit—but often the silence comes from recruiters and hiring managers themselves. Candidate ghosting—when recruiters cease all communication without explanation—is widespread and demoralizing. It’s especially maddening when recruiters initially express enthusiasm, only to vanish after candidates invest in interviews or projects. Job seekers are left in limbo, often branding recruiters as “time wasters” or worse. Recruiters cite many reasons. Some juggle thousands of applicants and claim it’s “not a good use of time” to respond. Others blame indecisive or uncommunicative hiring managers. Some avoid delivering bad news, worry about hostile reactions, or hide behind no-reply emails triggered by applicant tracking systems. Others keep candidates “warm” as backup options, or are told explicitly by managers not to reject candidates. Antiquated systems, agency profit models, and even laziness all play a role. The impact extends beyond individuals. Ghosting damages employer brands, drives candidates to ghost recruiters in return, and feeds perceptions that “ghost jobs” are posted without intent to hire. The practice erodes trust in recruiting as a profession. Despite the excuses, most agree ghosting is unprofessional and avoidable. Simple solutions exist: automated rejection emails, upgraded tracking systems with candidate portals, and a stronger emphasis on accountability. Some point out GDPR obligations to inform candidates about their data, arguing silence may even breach compliance. Others suggest recruiters should push back on hiring managers for clearer processes. Ironically, when recruiters are ghosted themselves in job searches, they often gain empathy. For candidates, the episode explores small changes to make résumés stand out and applications harder to ignore. General strategies include following up when communication stalls, but also moving on quickly if silence persists. Setting expectations for updates during interviews can help, but ultimately the healthiest approach is not dwelling on ghosting—keep applying until an offer is in hand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices