Should we tailor-fit our
resumes based on different job positions?
There were mixed opinions with
an agreeable verdict that although it is strenuous to create a resume for every
job, you should make sure to include
keywords that fit the job description (for example,
mention projects with keywords like MIMO, DAS for wireless positions). Keywords
will allow your resume to pass through the filters set by the recruiters. Keeping
the body of your resume intact and making
edits based on the relevance to the job that you want to apply
to; would be an efficient way to go about it.
Is there a hiring freeze going
on in companies?
Major companies are actively looking for
candidates. All the panelists received jobs between March and April. There was
an initial hiring slump in March; however, all major companies were still
actively hiring was the general presumption.
When and where do we start
applying to jobs?
This
will depend on you. Applying sooner will improve your chances of being noticed;
however, make sure you do your research thoroughly; edit and spell check your
cover letter and resume before submitting them. Make sure you network with
people on LinkedIn, as the platform works as an interactive version of your
resume. Getting referrals from
employees in the company will make you stand out from the other applicants.
Keep on the lookout for job postings on LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and
official company websites.
Do your
research on the companies that you aim for (at least 30-50 companies, this
depends on your field of interest). Connect with the employees and recruiters,
and ask them about the company’s work structure, culture, and work-life
balance. This will help you understand if the job position is fit for you.
Were there any resources used
while preparing for interviews?
Ms. Surbhi was kind enough to
share resources that she used while preparing for her interviews that were
beyond the course material. Here is a list of her resources:
Books from the UMD library
(Available as eBook)
- OFDM for wireless communication
systems by Ramjee Prasad
- LTE Advance - a practical systems
approach to understanding the 3GPP LTE Releases 10 and 11 radio access
technologies by Sassan Ahmadi
For quick referencing: http://www.sharetechnote.com/
Online Resources:
- http://www.dspguide.com/pdfbook.htmhttps://www.programiz.com/dsa (Good source for Data
Structures and Algorithms, as they have graphical representations)
- https://github.com/iteachmachines/Free-Computer-Science-University/blob/master/README.md - List of Open Source courses
in Computer Science.
The participants had the opportunity to talk one-on-one with the panelists in breakout rooms for additional questions. UMD offers resources for students during COVID-19 - https://eng.umd.edu/careers/students/covid-19 (Click on the link to know more).
Stay tuned for more events from TSAN!
Snapshots from the event: