Tips for Landing Your First Job as a Computer Science Student

Make sure to utilize your college's career support services. They can help polish your resume and guide your job search. Keep in mind, many people apply to over 100 jobs just to score one interview, so be prepared for that!

If you’re studying at a well-known college, look for internships with top companies like FAANG. If you’re from a more typical school, check with your college's career office; they often have practical experience opportunities. Freelancing can also be a good route. Just a heads up—it's tough out there; even seasoned pros have a hard time finding positions!

I found my first job through my school's mailing list. A company was looking for new grads, and once I applied through that channel, I got hired! Applying directly through the company’s website wasn’t fruitful since they mainly sought experienced candidates.

Getting your first job is definitely a challenge, but stay positive! Just remember, perseverance is key, and you're not alone in this; it gets easier with time.

LinkedIn is a treasure trove for job postings, so start there. Apply for both entry-level and slightly higher roles; smaller companies often struggle to fill positions, and you might get lucky. Plus, working on personal projects can boost your resume—make sure to share your code samples on GitHub and link them on your resume. When I was job hunting, mentioning my personal projects impressed my interviewer and helped me land a role!