Recent college graduate wishing to move to Burlington...but finding first "real job" seems difficult (find a job)

[swimalias]

Hi,

I'm graduating college this May in Pennsylvania, and am trying to find a job. I was born in Burlington, but have lived most of my life in NH. I am sick of the hustle and bustle of living in PA, and want to move back to Burlington. I love skiing, biking, and other outdoor activities, and am, therefore, eager to find a job in the Burlington area. I am wondering if anyone knows of resources that I could use to find a job? I'm fluent in French, have a great GPA, resume, and am a quick learner. I know that jobs aren't always easy to come by in Burlington, but I'm hoping that being fluent in French will help me (are there lots of opportunities to use this, seeing as Montreal is not far away?). This is my first time looking for a "real job," seeing as I'm just graduating college. I'm having a tough time finding resources that have jobs aimed for entry-level applicants. Online classifieds have not been helping much, as none of the jobs are really relevant or are only aimed for candidates who have 3-5+ years of experience.

Any suggestions or help would greatly help to alleviate my stress levels!

[flu189]

Without mentioning your academic field and intended career path it would be difficult to impossible to provide suggestions as to where to look or whom to contact. One point that you did make which is very frustrating is that many options seem to be linked to the dreaded three to five year experience requirement. Keep looking, try different resources, and though it may be no comfort there are quite a few degree holders out there chronically under employed schleping jobs to just get buy.

[vter]

Congrats on your upcoming graduation!
What is your major? What type of work are you looking for?
Also, have you considered the Plattsburgh area? I saw a report on the news that many Canadian companies are setting up shop there, so there may be an opportunity for you given your French skills.
Give us some more info and we'll try and help you out!

[swimalias]

My majors are French and Psychology and I spent all of last year living in France. As far as what I'm looking for job-wise, ideally, it would include translation and interpretation and working with French-speaking clients. I guess I kind of want to be the "go-between," aiding in business between French speakers and English speakers. I would love a job that would help me to keep up my French proficiency.

No, I hadn't heard of the Plattsburgh area, but I will definitely look into that! Thank you!

[vter]

You may consider giving the Burlington International Airport a call (admin offices). According to their stats, 30% of passengers come from the Montreal area. I recently flew and was witness to a Candian woman and a TSA person who were trying to converse - he didnt know french, she english. I wonder if they need some guest relations folks who are bi-lingual? It's worth a shot.

[sundialstreet]

You might want to look into work with Refugee Resettlement. They seem to constantly be looking for multi-lingual people as case managers. It seems exactly in alignment with your dual academic studies. Good luck to you and be prepared to make virtually nothing!

[chrismpv]

Also check State government: Vermont Department of Human Resources . Quebec is the number one export and import partner for the State of Vermont. I'm sure some Agencies might appreciate your proficiency in French. Also, through Vermont Chamber vtchamber.com or Lake Champlain Chamber vermont.org you might find job opportunity or leads.