About to Earn Your HR Degree? Do These Things Before You Graduate

So, you’re getting ready to walk the graduation stage and begin your HR career. Your friends at SHRM couldn’t be prouder as you prepare to take this monumental step. (And we hope they pronounce your name flawlessly!)

Before you don your mortarboard, make sure you remain ahead of the competition in the hiring process by completing these steps. Our three pre-graduation pro tips will help you enter the talent pool with confidence.  

Experience: Your Passport to the HR Suite

Picture this: You excitedly click on the job listing for an interesting “entry-level” HR role. However, the employer’s definition of “entry-level” qualifications is having five years of experience, psychic abilities, and proficiency in underwater tap dancing.  

Been there, done that! While it’s important to identify unrealistic expectations, having some experience can never hurt when applying to an entry-level role.  

Gaining hands-on experience before graduating is critical. It enhances your understanding of HR functions and grants you a competitive edge in the job market. Companies value candidates who have demonstrated core competencies during previous opportunities, bridging the gap between education and the real world.

“Building real-world experience is key,” said Raiyana Bryant, SHRM-CP, human resources specialist at SHRM. “It demonstrates that you are able to apply what you have learned in school.”

The most effective way to gain pre-graduate HR experience is through an internship. Many organizations offer opportunities for students to engage in recruitment, employee relations, and other HR tasks.  

Actively stay updated on internet job boards, especially those curated by your college or university, searching for opportunities that meet your needs and accommodate your specific interests in the field of HR. Consider reaching out to an academic advisor or professor for assistance in connecting with hiring managers keen on recruiting top emerging talent.  

Article: Tips for Finding the Right Internship for Your Career Goals

Use all the tools at your disposal to secure a pre-graduate internship. However, what happens next if you aren’t able to find such an opportunity?

Depending on other commitments or extenuating circumstances, you may not have the chance to enroll in an internship. If this is the case, there are still plenty of ways to gain experience in HR before graduating. Consider a volunteer opportunity or reach out to an HR professional and ask to become their apprentice. By shadowing someone in the field, you will gain valuable industry knowledge and learn about the day-to-day life of an HR expert.  

“Seek out other opportunities to involve yourself in the field,” Bryant said. “Use your college or university’s network, especially through your mentors or educators, to connect with HR professionals and learn how you might contribute to their work.”

Your Network Makes Your Dream Work

Think about networking like mingling at a party, but the conversations are about industry initiatives, not pizza.  

It is essential for HR students to develop a network before entering the workforce. While internships and volunteer opportunities can provide valuable hands-on experience, building connections is equally critical for transitioning smoothly into your career. Networking paves the way to accessing exciting roles and allows you to learn directly from industry professionals.

“Your network will help open doors for new career opportunities,” Bryant said. “Don’t pass up any chance to meet HR professionals and learn about their daily work.”

Collaborating with fellow students, engaging with professors, and leveraging academic advisors can form the foundation of your professional community. A classmate you did a group project with could be a valuable connection (even if you did more of the work!).  

Your college or university may offer networking opportunities, perhaps even with hiring managers who work in HR — excellent opportunities to make a career-altering tie.

Connecting with HR professionals on LinkedIn, especially alumni who share a similar academic background, is a powerful way to gain industry insights and mentorship. These conversations will help you better understand practical HR challenges and how to prepare for them.  

“If you do not have a LinkedIn profile, create one now,” Bryant said. “Showcase yourself and what you bring to an organization. This develops your personal brand and helps you stand out among other candidates.”

Adopt a Winning Mindset

Becoming a successful HR professional requires more than just academic knowledge; you need a productive mindset that will guide you through the complexities of your future career. Here’s how to cultivate it.  

First, remember not to be too hard on yourself — are you your own harshest critic? Never be a hater, and that includes toward yourself!

Professional titles don’t define anyone, and you’re not expected to have all the answers immediately. Simply try your hardest in the current moment, even when tackling your job search.

Article: Overcoming Career-Long Imposter Syndrome Challenges

“Take a deep breath,” Bryant said. “You might not find an opportunity in the first few months after you graduate, and that’s normal. Even once you begin your career, refrain from overly negative self-criticism that isn’t productive.” 

Second, adopt a growth mindset. We regret to inform you that your academic advisor is correct: The learning doesn’t stop after graduation! Be ready to search for professional development opportunities, whether that means seeking out stretch projects, obtaining certifications, or enrolling in company skills development initiatives. Each new experience adds to your expertise.  

“You’ve got to be willing to put in the work,” said Faith Stipanovich, SHRM-SCP, student communities manager at SHRM. “Continuing to learn after college will help you along your journey.”