I’m an econ student at Columbia and my secret shame is that I’m going to graduate with a 3.3 GPA. I really didn’t do well during my first year and even though I’ve been improving and actually got a 3.87 last semester, I know that realistically I won’t get over a 3.3 before I graduate. What are my options? I want to go to grad school eventually but I know I’ll probably need to wait on that, but I don’t know where I can get hired in the meantime.
First of all, don’t be ashamed! Columbia is a very difficult place and you have done well and have an upward trend in your grades. Many students struggle at first. Be proud that you are going to graduat from such a wonderful University.
You are smart to work first before going to grad school. Not only will it make your application stronger, you will get a much better sense of what you really want in life.
Go to the career center and make an appointment with a counselor. They can point you in the right direction, help you perfect your resume, practice interviewing ect. They will also know who is hiring. There are companies who will open their doors simply because you graduated from Columbia. That is one of the perks. Have you had any internships during college? Do you have contacts from those that might point you in the right direction?