Where Do I Go From Here: Tips for New Computer Science Graduates

Several years ago, in the midst of the IT boom, a college graduate in Computer Science simply had to post a resume and usually within about 48 hours had an interview and a job.

Times, however, they are a'changin' and unfortunately for every new graduate entering the workforce, there are ten professionals with years of experience standing in front of them in the employment line. With little or no actual experience, it may seem that these new computer science graduates will be forced to rethink their career choice, return to school or take a minimum wage paying job until they can find an entry level position that no one else wants. There are, however, a few things that can be done to speed that process up. While offshore outsourcing is being maligned as the culprit, new computer science graduates would do well to research the opportunities in this industry. There are actually large companies out there that are looking for new graduates to send overseas to learn the ins and outs of this business. When returning to the states, they are then positioned to actually manage and lead these outsourcing projects. A willingness to travel, learn about other cultures, and potentially work offshore themselves are the traits that these type of employers are seeking.

Blogging your way to the CIO

The key to being successful in a job search for new computer science graduates is to think outside of the box. Odds are your resume is landing on the desk of the hiring manager lost in a pile of experience. New graduates are going to have to resort to less traditional methods. One method of getting noticed that is spreading like wildfire is blogging. The more a potential candidate can get his/her name out there, the better. Amazingly enough, the blog (an online personal diary or journal of sorts) is catching the attention of potential employers attempting to narrow down their choices and looking for a little personal insight on potential candidates. The one trait that new graduates in the industry usually have that maybe their jaded counterparts don't, is a passion for their career of choice. Blogging is an excellent way to communicate that passion and apparently potential employers are actually using the Internet to research candidates.

If an employer types your name into Google and it returns hundreds of listings of your own personal writing, you've basically given yourself an additional opportunity to showcase your talent and intelligence. It's important however, as a new computer science graduate, to keep in mind who may be reading what you're writing. In fact, as you blog away, you just might find yourself being contacted by employers with job opportunities. Another similar method is to join forums and discussion groups relating to your industry. You need to actually get involved, participate in the discussions and voice your opinions. It doesn't take long to look like a guru if you're providing intelligent information and personal insight. Again, you never know, you just may be conversing with the CIO.

Consider contracting projects being offered online.

For new computer science graduates with little or no actual work experience, contracting out on individual projects is an excellent idea. There are several on-line platforms that are now available to IT professionals that allow buyers to submit projects and professionals to bid on those projects. While these are usually international in scope and you'll find yourself often bidding extremely low, it is a way to get a few projects under your belt. Websites to visit are Rentacoder.com and Guru.com. Quite often, the completion of a project on one of these sites will lead to ongoing relationships with individuals and even large corporations. The important thing to remember, however, is that you're competing with those guys who have taken your jobs in the first place so this probably isn't going to pay your bills. It will, however, provide an opportunity to hone and perfect your technical skills and provide completed projects for your resume.

Getting involved in an open-source project is also a way for new computer science graduates to get a little exposure. The key is to find something that interests you and start contributing. Be sure and include these projects on your resume. They do showcase your ability as well as prove that you do have a commitment to your chosen profession.