Land Your Dream Career

April 1, 2013

From the cover blurb and the introduction, this book's message is clear: a college degree does not guarantee a job after graduation. What makes this title stand apart from others on the same topic is Terhune, a recent college graduate, who writes from her experience and whose budding career underscores the usefulness of her advice. Hays (public relations, California State Univ., Fresno), a student mentor with years of experience, adds a professional viewpoint. Although the book includes basic advice on selecting an institution, program, and major as well as references to coursework and professors, most of the content revolves around activity a student engages in outside of the classroom (personal branding, networking, mastering the elevator pitch). The chapter on career-conscious (and reputation-conscious) use of social media should be required reading for every college student. VERDICT The authors present valuable insight and practical advice in an easy-to-follow format. This title will appeal to the go-getter heading off to college as well as those closer to graduation.--Sara Holder, McGill Univ. Libs., Montreal

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2013
Smart authors (and publishers) are recognizing the upside of a not-so-robust economy and the need of young job-seekers to get hired quickly (and, yes, to begin paying off college debt). So why not start the process in college, if not before? California State University at Fresno graduate Terhune and Hayes, her professor, team up to produce a unique take on what freshmen-to-seniors can do now, even before matriculating. Their 11 steps, from start now to put it all together, reflect a commonsense approach as well as a passion for business. Armed with tips, end-of-chapter summary cheat sheets, and success stories to inspire, readers will be truly prepared with the essentials, such as personal branding (which, in three to four words, will project you honestly and with integrity and credibility), or innovate to stand out, whether that involves starting a business, traveling, or finding new ways of doing things. Practical and achievable advice.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)