Why Building Your Resume During Your Studies is Crucial

Stand Out to Employers

In today’s competitive job market, a degree alone may not be enough to secure your ideal job. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who possess a range of skills, real-world experience, and a proactive attitude. By actively working on your resume while studying, you position yourself as a well-rounded candidate ready to take on professional challenges.

Gain Relevant Experience

While academic learning is essential, hands-on experience allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings. Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work help you develop key skills like communication, problem-solving, time management, and teamwork, which are all highly valued by employers.

Network and Make Industry Connections

Studying abroad in Germany provides an excellent opportunity to meet professionals from diverse backgrounds. Networking with professors, attending career fairs, and engaging in university events can help you establish valuable relationships that may lead to internships, job offers, or career advice down the line.

Cultural Competence and Language Skills

Working or volunteering in Germany will also enhance your cultural competence, a skill that’s highly valued in global workplaces. If you’re still working on your German skills, part-time jobs or internships provide an excellent opportunity to improve your language proficiency, a major advantage when applying for jobs in Germany.

How to Build Your Resume While Studying in Germany

Internships and Work Experience

Internships offer a fantastic way to gain practical experience while studying in Germany. Many companies in sectors like engineering, IT, business, and finance offer internships to international students, giving you a chance to work on real-world projects and learn from professionals.

How to Find Internships:

• University Career Center: Most German universities have career services departments that can help you find internships. These centers also organize networking events, career fairs, and workshops on how to improve your CV and interview skills.

• Online Platforms: Websites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Indeed list internships in Germany. Additionally, sites like StepStone and Monster cater to students and recent graduates looking for internships.

• German Companies and Startups: Many global companies like BMW, Siemens, and SAP offer internships for international students. Additionally, many startups in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg have internship programs for students.

Internships typically last 3-6 months, but you can also find part-time or summer internships that fit your schedule.

Part-Time Jobs

As a student in Germany, you’re allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during vacations. Part-time jobs can be an excellent way to build your resume and earn money.

Types of Part-Time Jobs:

• On-Campus Jobs: Many universities offer on-campus employment opportunities such as working in the library, student cafeteria, or student unions. These jobs are convenient and help you stay connected to the academic environment.

• Hospitality and Retail Jobs: Cafés, restaurants, and retail stores frequently hire students. These jobs are great for improving your German language skills and teaching you customer service and teamwork.

• Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, you could tutor other students or offer private lessons. Tutoring is flexible and shows your ability to explain complex concepts to others.

• Freelancing: If you have specialized skills like graphic design, content writing, or coding, consider offering freelance services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Freelancing allows you to work on short-term projects while managing your academic schedule.

Volunteering and Extracurricular Activities

Volunteering is a great way to enhance your resume while giving back to the community. Many NGOs, charity organizations, and cultural institutions in Germany offer volunteer opportunities, especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg.

How Volunteering Enhances Your Resume:

• Demonstrates your commitment to social causes and shows your strong work ethic.

• Helps develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving, which are all highly valued by employers.

• Provides networking opportunities with professionals who can offer career advice or future job leads.

Examples of Volunteering Opportunities:

• Environmental Organizations: Work with sustainability programs, recycling initiatives, or community gardens.

• Social Services: Volunteer with organizations supporting refugees, homeless individuals, or other vulnerable groups.

• Cultural Events: Participate in the organization of festivals, exhibitions, or cultural events, gaining valuable event management experience.

Networking and Attending Career Events

Networking is essential when building your resume and securing job opportunities. By attending career fairs, industry meetups, and conferences, you can meet professionals in your field, learn about industry trends, and connect with potential employers.

University Career Fairs:

Most German universities host career fairs where companies from various industries meet students to discuss job opportunities. Attending these events, bringing your CV, and preparing to talk about your academic background and career aspirations can significantly increase your chances of securing an internship or job.

Industry Conferences and Meetups:

Attending conferences or meetups related to your field can help you gain industry insights and connect with professionals. Websites like Meetup.com or Eventbrite often list professional events in major German cities.

Developing Soft Skills

Employers today are not just looking for technical expertise; they also value soft skills. Skills like communication, leadership, and teamwork are essential in today’s work environment. By getting involved in student clubs, participating in workshops, or taking on leadership roles, you can develop these vital skills.

Examples of Soft Skills:

• Communication: Join a public speaking group or take part in debates to improve your verbal communication.

• Leadership: Take on leadership roles in student organizations or group projects.

• Teamwork: Participate in university projects, case competitions, or group study sessions to enhance your ability to collaborate effectively.

How to Make Your Resume Stand Out in Germany

Tailor Your CV for the German Market

German employers value structured and well-organized CVs. Follow the traditional German format, which includes a concise summary of your education, work experience, skills, and achievements. Be sure to emphasize any internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work to demonstrate your commitment to gaining experience.

Write a Strong Cover Letter

In Germany, a well-crafted cover letter (Anschreiben) is just as important as your CV. Tailor each cover letter to the specific role you’re applying for, and explain why you’re the ideal candidate for the job or internship. Make sure your cover letter is concise and to the point, focusing on how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs.

Leverage Your International Background

As an international student, your global perspective and multilingual abilities are huge assets. Be sure to highlight your international experience on your CV, as German companies value diversity, especially those with global operations.

Final Thoughts

Building your resume while studying in Germany is a crucial step toward creating career opportunities and gaining valuable experience. Whether you pursue an internship, volunteer, work part-time, or get involved in extracurricular activities, there are numerous ways to enhance your professional profile. Start early, stay proactive, and take advantage of the incredible opportunities available in Germany to set yourself up for a successful career.