As football season heats up, teams across the NFL are proving one thing: success doesn’t happen by chance. Success is a result of strategy, preparation, and knowing how to play your strengths.

Surprise! The same goes for your career. Whether you are a first-year student, a senior getting ready for the big leagues, or somewhere in between, now is the time to start drafting your career

playbook!

First. Scout Your Opportunities

Before the NFL draft, teams spend months researching the best players for their roster. You can do the same by exploring potential career opportunities, attending Professional U events, or networking with professionals in your field. Think of it as “career scouting” – the more you know about where you want to go, the better your next move will be.

Second. Build Your Stats

On any team, players prove themselves to earn their spots. Internships, volunteer work, and even part-time jobs allow you to gain soft and hard skills– that help you prove yourself. Each experience adds to your highlight reel!

Finally. Get Game Day Ready When interview season comes around, you’ll need to bring your A-game! Perfect your resume (Resume Lab appointments available on Handshake!) and sharpen your elevator pitch. Everything counts when it is time for you to step onto the field and show what you’ve been training for.

The perfect athletes don’t just wait around for the perfect opportunity – they create it through discipline and determination. So, as you cheer on your favorite team this season, remember: You’re building your very own winning season too (and who doesn’t love to win?).