What is the purpose of college? To throw the best parties? Think again. How about to get good grades? Closer, but not quite. The whole reason we are here is to prepare for getting a job.

Our lives as college students are quite busy, and we sometimes lose track of our ultimate purpose of attending college. While I’m certain art appreciation and women & gender studies will make you a more well-rounded person, they’re probably not directly helping you land your dream job; unless of course you are focusing your studies on these topics. So when should you start thinking about applying for this scary “real job”?

According to Career Services expert Karolyn Bald, most students should begin the application process around February or March of their last semester. “It really depends when you’re graduating and what industry you’re in, but students should start thinking now, especially with the career fair coming up in February.”

Bald encourages all students to check out the Career Fair, whether they are looking for a job or not.

“Some students think the Career Fair isn’t for them, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” she said. It is a good place to network for full-time or part-time jobs, internships or even just make professional connections within the community.

Senior Noelle Griffiths agrees with Bald and has been attending the Career Fair on campus since her sophomore year. She explained, “I wasn’t necessarily going as a sophomore with the expectation of finding a ‘dream job.’ Rather, I used the fairs as an opportunity to see what was ‘out there’ and to ask professionals for advice. Essentially, I have been exploring job interests since my sophomore year. Although, I got more serious about it before my senior year started.”

This may be why Griffiths has already received a job offer and accepted to become a member of City Year Corps, tutoring and mentoring students in Arkansas. She understands this is much earlier than the norm for graduating students, but is thankful she has this already figured out. “I believe it is never to early to explore what you are passionate about. Job exploration can really broaden your knowledge and narrow your interests.”

Griffiths also recommends Career Services in helping to secure a job. “It is full of amazing, kind and smart people who are literally there to help you succeed and find a job. Meeting with them had an amazing impact on my job searches.”

Bald also encourages students to make an appointment for any career-related needs, from tips with resumes and cover letters to figuring out your career interests to answering questions about job applications and interviews.

The Spring Career Fair will be held on Feb. 25. For more information on the fair or Career Services, check out www.uwlax.edu/Career-Services.