I would definitely agree that networking is huge part of landing that first job. It also helps if you’ve had previous internships/co-ops while completing your undergraduate degree. However, sometimes this can be difficult because a lot of companies want to hire people with a lot of experience and making yourself stand out among other students competing for the same job can be a challenge. I was in the same boat right after I graduated so here’s some advice:

I would say if you find yourself in a “lull” between school and getting your first job or even in between jobs, take that extra time to develop a new skill, whether it’s on your own or by taking a few extra classes. I know there are a ton of websites that offer online courses for programming languages, many of which are free! It doesn’t even need to be something concrete; it could be something as simple as learning how to communicate better or practicing interviewing skills.

Another good thing to keep in mind is when you’re applying to jobs, don’t just send the same resume to every company. You should always be adjusting and revising your resumes tocater them specifically for the role you’re looking at. Strong cover letters also make a big difference!

Lastly, networking doesn’t stop once you’ve been hired. Keep talking and meeting new people to really get your name out there. I’ve learned, from personal experience, that sharing your ideas (no matter how big or small) can go a long way. Voice your opinions, give feedback, and propose new ideas. People will definitely notice and could potentially help you in the long run!