So you just received your diploma in the mail sometime in the past few weeks. You read it over, felt proud of yourself. Maybe you took a picture or two and posted it to Twitter or Facebook. But, besides the temporary ego-boost, what else does that piece of paper have to offer?
Along with the fancy diploma of yours comes a plethora of resources provided to you by your alumni association, many of which are too lucrative to pass up. Your college degree is much more than a written credential.
There are many common alumni resources to tap into after you graduate. Take advantage of the following benefits, discounts, and opportunities of being an alumnus:
1. Career Services
You are not denied access to your university career center after you graduate. In fact, the majority of career services online provide a specific tab for alumni only. Though each career center and its services differ, the offerings are right at your fingertips and more often than not, free of charge. Take advantage of career workshops and seminars, networking events, job boards, and possibly even a specialized database for university alumni only.
2. Emails to Last
Your college email address may deactivate soon after you graduate, but your official emailing days are not put on hold. Since the amount of Gmail accounts are endless, finding a professional username can cause some problems. You have many options to consider, one being to inquire about lifelong email addresses provided by your alumni association. Furthermore, your university may be able to forward all of your important emails from your student account to an alumni account so the last 4 years of your college career are not erased.
3. Travel Benefits
Believe it or not, your university can be your next best travel partner. Most alumni associations offer discounted rates when it comes to renting cars, airport parking, and they might even have connections with hotel chains. Check out your opportunities before booking your next getaway or long weekend.
4. Banking Services
University credit unions > your standard bank. Your university credit union offers a variety of advantages when it comes to financial services beyond insurance. As an alumnus, you can expect fewer fees, lower car and mortgage rates, and even personalized service – your alma mater is there for you.
Remember, your alumni association provides a HUGE network. Don’t overlook the opportunities of connecting with your next employer or even you next hire for your own business endeavor.
Check out the full list of alumni benefits to be sure you are making the most out of that college degree.
What other opportunities do recent college graduates have? How can they take advantage of them?
