#VPA

Tag: #VPA

Strategies on Keeping a Job Search Manageable 

When I think about managing a job search, one key message really stands out: you don’t have to treat every job application like it’s a life-or-death situation. Not all opportunities deserve the same level of effort, and trying to give every single one your full attention is a guaranteed recipe for burnout. What I’ve learned is that by approaching your search strategically—with clear categories and time boundaries—you can actually make the process much more efficient and less stressful. 

The Emotional and Time Cost of Job Searching 

One of the first things that stuck with me was how every application comes with two kinds of costs: time and emotional energy. That part really made sense. You can easily lose hours tweaking your resume or obsessing over a cover letter—only to hear nothing back. If you do this over and over again without a clear strategy, it’s no surprise you’d end up feeling frustrated or drained. 

So instead of throwing your energy at everything, it’s smarter to think about how much each opportunity is really worth. That’s where the tiered approach comes in. 

The Tiered Approach: Matching Effort to Opportunity 

This framework breaks down your job opportunities into three main categories—and I found this concept super helpful for balancing energy, time, and expectations. 

Tier 1: “Drop Everything” 

These are the dream jobs. The ones that make you think, “If I got this, I’d pack up and move tomorrow.” They’re rare—maybe only one or two like this show up during your whole search. 

Because they’re so meaningful, they deserve deep investment: 8 to 10+ hours of prep. That includes researching the company in depth, doing informational interviews, and customizing every single part of your application. Even if you don’t get the job, the process itself is rewarding because you’re learning and connecting. 

Tier 2: “Strong Opportunities” 

These are jobs you’d be genuinely excited to land, and they make up the bulk of a healthy job search. What I like about this tier is that it balances quality and efficiency—you put in a solid 30 to 45 minutes of effort, enough to stand out without exhausting yourself. 

Tier 3: “Acceptable” 

These are roles that you’d take if offered, but you’re not emotionally invested in them. Maybe they’re slightly out of your comfort zone or not quite ideal—but they’re still worth applying to. Here, you only spend about 5 minutes per application. The key is not getting emotionally caught up in these; the lower investment helps protect your energy. 

Non-Tiered (a.k.a. Don’t Apply) 

This part really clarified things for me: if you wouldn’t take the job even if offered, just don’t apply. That simple rule can save you so much time and stress. It’s easy to feel guilty about skipping opportunities, but applying to mismatched roles wastes your resources and clouds your focus. 

The 15-Minute Job Search: A Game-Changer 

Another powerful takeaway was the 15-minute job search strategy. I love how this flips the typical grind mindset on its head. Instead of sitting down for an undefined and overwhelming session, you give yourself a very short, clear block of time with a specific goal. 

For example: 

Target: “Search for data science internships in Chicago.” 

Goal: “Find two roles to apply to.” 

Time Limit: 15 minutes—no more, no less. 

This approach keeps things light, focused, and doable. It’s great for maintaining momentum, especially when juggling other priorities like school or personal life. 

Final Thoughts 

What I’ve really come to understand is that a well-managed job search isn’t just about maximizing output—it’s about protecting your energy, managing your time wisely, and investing differently depending on the value of the opportunity. By applying a tiered system and breaking tasks into manageable chunks, the process becomes much more human and less exhausting. 

Ultimately, you’re not just trying to land any job—you’re trying to land the right one. And that takes clarity, discipline, and a little self-compassion. 

Sabin Ku Shah is a Computer Science Major and a Data Science Minor at Lawrence University and also a Secretary at Lawrence University Data Science Club. As a Career Peer Educator for CJW and GLI Career Communities, Sabin is motivated to help students explore their career paths. Connect with Sabin on Linkedin

Niche Job Sites and Decoding Job Descriptions

In today’s competitive job market, searching for your next opportunity can feel overwhelming. One way to ease this process is by utilizing niche job sites and understanding how to decode job descriptions. These specialized platforms and insightful reading of job listings can help you find more targeted roles and better match your skills to the opportunities available. Let’s dive into how these tools can enhance your job search.

What Are Niche Job Sites?

Niche job boards are specialized platforms focused on specific industries or career paths. Unlike general job boards, such as LinkedIn or Indeed, niche sites concentrate on particular skills or sectors. They cater to professionals with distinct qualifications and offer targeted opportunities that may not be listed on larger platforms.

These boards are often born from professionals’ efforts to create community spaces where they can share job leads, network, and support each other’s careers. Some niche sites are formal and even exclusive, while others have a grassroots feel, providing a more personal touch to the job search process.

Popular Examples of niche job sites include:

  • Dice: For tech professionals looking for roles in the IT and software development fields.
  • Publisher’s Weekly Job Zone: Tailored for those in the publishing and literary world.
  • FlexJobs: Specializes in remote work opportunities across industries.

Pros and Cons of Niche Job Boards

Advantages for Job Seekers

  • Less competition: By applying to specialized roles, you face less competition compared to broader platforms.
  • Targeted job matches: These sites are designed to help you find jobs that match your unique skills and experience.
  • Industry-specific recruiters: You’ll have more direct access to recruiters who specialize in your field.
  • More detailed job descriptions: Niche job boards tend to provide more relevant and detailed information about job requirements.

Disadvantages for Job Seekers

  • Fewer listings: These boards usually have a smaller pool of job listings, but this can be seen as an advantage because the roles are more tailored.
  • Potentially missing mainstream opportunities: Since niche boards cater to specific fields, you might miss out on broader listings found on larger job platforms.
  • Membership fees: Some niche sites charge for access, and some require you to pay for job postings. These fees can be prohibitive, particularly for small organizations looking to hire.
  • Multiple boards to monitor: To maximize your chances, you may need to monitor several niche job sites regularly.

Despite the smaller pool, niche job sites often yield higher-quality candidates for specialized roles, making them a worthwhile investment for job seekers.

Decoding Job Descriptions

Understanding job descriptions can be tricky, especially when the wording isn’t straightforward. Here’s how to decode these listings into something more manageable.

Analyzing Position Context

Start by understanding how the role connects to the broader organization. Is it a key position in a growing department, or does it have more of a support role? Understanding the department’s relationship with other teams and the strategic importance of the position will help you grasp the scope of the job.

Evaluating Tasks

Take a look at the required tasks listed in the description. Ask yourself, “Can I perform these tasks well?” Compare the listed duties with your current skill set. If you don’t check off every box, don’t be discouraged—many job descriptions list ideal qualifications rather than absolute requirements.

Qualifications: A Wishlist

Remember, the qualifications listed often represent a wishlist rather than strict requirements. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t meet every single qualification; instead, focus on your relevant experiences and how they align with the role.

Gathering Evidence

When decoding a job description, it’s essential to gather evidence of your capabilities. Compile specific examples of past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle similar tasks. Use these examples in your cover letter and interview to showcase your suitability for the role.

Deciphering Vague Job Descriptions

Many job descriptions are vague or lack specific details. Here’s how to clarify those uncertainties.

Research Similar Roles

Search for similar job roles across multiple companies to see if there are common tasks and responsibilities. Compare qualifications to get a better idea of what’s typically expected for the role in your industry.

Leverage AI Tools

You can also use AI tools to analyze and interpret ambiguous job descriptions. These tools can help generate possible responsibilities and skills implied in the listing, guiding you on what to expect and how to prepare for the role.

Inquire from Network Contacts

Reach out to your professional network to get insider information. Ask alumni, colleagues, or industry experts about the role. Networking can provide clarity on ambiguous job listings and help you make a more informed decision.

When you’re deep in the job search, niche job sites and the ability to decode job descriptions can be powerful tools. Niche sites offer specialized opportunities and reduced competition, helping you find roles that closely match your skills. At the same time, understanding the nuances of job descriptions allows you to assess whether a position truly fits your experience. Together, these strategies can make the job search process more focused, efficient, and successful.

Economics and Business Analytics double major and a Data Science minor at Lawrence University as well as an Event Coordinator at Pan Asian Organization and Social Media Manager at LU Data Science Club. Connect with Nadika in LinkedIn

How to get into Film and Television

Dreaming of the silver screen or the bustling world of television production? As a film studies major or minor at Lawrence, you’re uniquely positioned to bring depth and versatility to your craft. Liberal arts schools like Lawrence emphasize critical thinking, storytelling, and interdisciplinary learning—skills that are highly valued in the film and television industry. But how do you turn that degree into a ticket to Hollywood or a thriving indie career? Here’s your guide:

1. Leverage Your Liberal Arts Advantage

At Lawrence, you’re likely getting more than just technical film training. You’re exploring literature, philosophy, art, sociology, and more. These diverse perspectives can help you become a stronger storyteller, with richer characters and more nuanced plots. Use your coursework to deepen your understanding of human nature and cultural trends—it’s this insight that sets great filmmakers apart. Don’t shy away from taking classes outside of your major. A history class could inspire a period drama, while a psychology course could enhance your character development skills.

2. Build a Versatile Skill Set

The film and television industry thrives on multi-talented individuals who are adaptable and resourceful. While Lawrence might not have access to expansive soundstages or state-of-the-art film equipment, it emphasizes creativity and the ability to make the most of available resources. This is your opportunity to borrow equipment, collaborate with peers, and dive into experimenting with editing software—all of which can build your foundational knowledge in key areas.


Key Skills to Develop:

  • Scriptwriting
  • Cinematography and lighting
  • Editing and post-production
  • Directing and producing
  • Networking and pitching


You don’t need to master every aspect, but hands-on experience across multiple areas will make you more flexible, creative, and, ultimately, employable in this dynamic field. Whether you’re planning a student film, participating in a local production, or simply experimenting on your own, building this versatile skill set will open doors and prepare you for the collaborative environment of the professional world.

3. Create Constantly

Your college years are the perfect time to build your portfolio. Collaborate with friends on short films, documentaries, or experimental projects. These will not only hone your skills but also give you tangible work to show potential employers or film schools.

How to Showcase Your Work:

  • Submit projects to student film festivals or competitions.
  • Share your work on platforms like Vimeo, YouTube, or a personal website.
  • Use social media strategically to build an audience for your films.

Remember, your portfolio should demonstrate your range and creativity, so experiment with different genres and styles.

4. Intern, Intern, Intern

Internships are the gateway to the film and television industry. They help you make connections, understand the business, and get a foot in the door. Look for opportunities at production companies, TV networks, local news stations, or even community theaters.

How to Land an Internship:

  • Search Handshake for
  • Tap into the Career Center’s alumni network for leads.
  • Attend film festivals, panels, and networking events.
  • Polish your resume and cover letter with a CPE or Career Advisor to highlight your skills and passion.

5. Network Like a Pro

The entertainment industry is as much about who you know as what you know. Start building your professional network while you’re still in college. Connect with professors, classmates, alumni, and guest speakers—anyone who could provide mentorship or job leads.

Ways to Build Connections:

  • Attend industry events, both in-person and virtual.
  • Join film clubs or organizations on campus, like the LU Latin American and Spanish Film Festival or Motion Picture Club.
  • Stay active on LinkedIn and other professional platforms.
  • Reach out to alumni working in the industry for informational interviews.

When networking, always approach with genuine curiosity and a willingness to learn, rather than asking for favors upfront.

6. Plan Your Post-College Path

There’s no one-size-fits-all path into the industry, so think about your goals and plan accordingly. Do you want to work in Hollywood, enter the indie scene, or pursue documentary filmmaking? Knowing your direction will help you make strategic decisions, like whether to move to a major production hub (e.g., Los Angeles, Atlanta, or New York) or pursue a graduate program in film.

Post-College Options:

  • Entry-level jobs like production assistant, camera operator, or assistant editor.
  • Graduate programs to deepen your expertise in film or screenwriting.
  • Freelance work to build your portfolio and gain experience.

Final Thoughts

Breaking into film and television is no easy feat, but as a Lawrentian, you have the tools to succeed. By building your skills, creating a standout portfolio, and networking strategically, you can carve out your own path in this dynamic industry.

Backstage Jobs in Theater

Behind the Curtain: Exploring Backstage Theater Careers

When people think about theater, they often picture the actors captivating audiences on stage or the directors orchestrating the production. However, behind every successful theatrical performance is an equally impressive team of backstage professionals, tirelessly working to bring the show to life. These unsung heroes possess unique skills and talents that are vital to ensuring every detail runs smoothly—whether in collegiate settings, community theaters, or professional companies. Let’s take a closer look into key backstage roles, their responsibilities, and the paths that often lead individuals to these rewarding careers.

Stage Management: The Heart of Coordination

Stage managers are the nerve center of any production. From orchestrating rehearsals and fostering communication across departments to calling critical cues during live performances, their role demands exceptional organization and composure. If you thrive on multitasking, staying cool under pressure, and ensuring seamless execution of complex projects, stage management might resonate with you.

Individuals drawn to this role often have prior experience in leadership or project coordination, a detail-oriented nature, and an appreciation for the behind-the-scenes logistics that keep productions running.

Career Tip: Aspiring stage managers often start as assistant stage managers or production assistants, learning the ropes of communication, scheduling, and technical know-how.

Set Designers and Builders: Visionaries of Space

The world of a theatrical production begins with set designers and builders who create the visual landscapes that bring stories to life. Their work requires a blend of creative vision and technical expertise, crafting everything from minimalist backdrops to elaborate, moving sets. If you have a passion for visual arts, an interest in carpentry, or a talent for spatial design, this could be your calling.

Many in this field have a background in art, architecture, or hands-on crafting. Those with a knack for material manipulation and a flair for imaginative problem-solving will find this role particularly fulfilling.

Career Tip: Internships and work in scene shops provide valuable experience, as does studying technical theater or design.

Lighting and Sound Technicians: Shaping Atmosphere and Impact

Lighting and sound technicians are essential for creating the ambiance and auditory elements that captivate audiences. Lighting technicians design setups to highlight the drama, while sound technicians ensure crisp audio mixing, manage microphones, and add impactful sound effects. If you’re drawn to technology and enjoy working under pressure to deliver flawless effects, this dynamic role may suit you.

Individuals interested in these areas often have experience tinkering with equipment or a fascination with how lighting and sound influence storytelling. Problem-solving and staying calm under tight deadlines are key traits for success.

Career Tip: Many technicians begin as assistants or study technical theater to develop their expertise in operating equipment and programming systems.

Costume Designers and Wardrobe Crew: Weaving Character Through Clothing

Costume designers and wardrobe crew members help tell the story through fabric, creating outfits that reflect the characters’ personalities, settings, and time periods. Designers conceive the ideas, while the wardrobe crew ensures costumes are managed and maintained throughout the show. If you have a flair for fashion, sewing skills, or a passion for historical styles, this role might inspire you.

Prior interests in fashion design, textiles, or historical clothing often pave the way for individuals to enter this field. Creativity combined with practical sewing knowledge is essential.

Career Tip: Pursue internships or apprenticeships with costume designers, or enroll in degree programs focused on fashion or costume design.

Props Masters: Masters of Details

Props masters specialize in finding, creating, and maintaining the objects actors interact with during performances. From crafting realistic props to sourcing unique items, their meticulous work brings authenticity to the stage. If you’re resourceful, enjoy hands-on crafting, and love adding the finishing touches, this role could be the perfect fit.

Many props masters have backgrounds in art, crafting, or scavenging for treasures—whether online or in physical stores. Their creativity and practicality make them invaluable in creating believable worlds.

Career Tip: Hone your crafting skills and work alongside production teams to gain insights into sourcing and managing props effectively.

Fly Crew and Rigging Specialists: Masters of Motion

The fly crew operates the ropes, pulleys, and counterweights that move scenic elements and even performers safely and seamlessly. These specialists ensure the magical transformations of scenery and effects occur precisely as intended. If you have mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and an eye for safety, this role may be up your alley.

Many individuals interested in rigging start with on-the-job training or enroll in specialized stage rigging programs. Physical endurance and attention to detail are key attributes for success.

Career Tip: Seek apprenticeships in rigging and familiarize yourself with safety standards and mechanisms used in modern productions.

Finding Your Path

Backstage theater careers are as diverse as they are rewarding, offering opportunities for individuals with a variety of interests and talents. Whether your passion lies in design, technical operations, coordination, or crafting, there’s a backstage role tailored to your skills. Exploring these roles, gaining hands-on experience, and aligning your strengths with the demands of each position can open doors to fulfilling opportunities in local theaters or even Broadway.

So, which of these roles calls to you—the meticulous stage manager, the creative set designer, the technical wizard of lighting and sound, or the hands-on props master? The backstage world awaits!

How AI Can Help You Land Your First Job in the Arts

So you’ve just graduated (or you’re about to) from Lawrence, and you’re ready to take on the world as an artist, performer, filmmaker, musician, or designer. You’ve got the talent. You’ve got the passion. But the job search? That part might feel… a little overwhelming.

Here’s some good news: you don’t have to do it all alone.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools can be a major asset for creative grads trying to break into the arts. Whether you’re looking to perform, get cast in a show, land a gallery internship, or work behind the scenes, AI can help you find opportunities, craft stronger applications, and walk into interviews with more confidence.

1. Find Arts-Focused Employers (Without Doom-Scrolling Job Boards)

Not every arts job is going to show up on Handshake, Indeed or LinkedIn. Some of the best opportunities—especially for visual artists, performers, or behind-the-scenes creatives—live on smaller platforms, organization websites, or word of mouth.

But with AI tools like ChatGPT, you can start your search in a smarter way. Try asking things like:

  • “What contemporary dance companies in New York are open to emerging choreographers?”
  • “Which small film studios in Atlanta offer assistant editor roles?”
  • “What art nonprofits hire recent grads for community programs?”

These tools can surface ideas, organizations, and leads you might not have found otherwise. Once you’ve got a list, use AI again to research each place—its mission, recent projects, and what kind of work it’s doing. You’ll walk into the application process already sounding like you get them.

2. Write Custom Resumes and Cover Letters (Without Losing Your Mind)

One of the fastest ways to get ignored? Sending the same generic resume and cover letter to every opportunity.

AI can help you avoid that trap. You can feed it your background and the job description, and it’ll help you draft tailored documents that actually speak to the role. Think:

  • Artist statements that describe your work clearly and powerfully
  • Cover letters that highlight your relevant experience (like being the stage manager for Cabaret or editing your senior capstone film)
  • Resumes that include the right keywords for applicant tracking systems

Pro tip: Always review and edit what AI gives you. Use it as a first draft, not the final product. You want your personality and creativity to shine through.

3. Prep for Interviews Like a Pro

Nervous about interviews? Totally normal. Luckily, AI can help you practice.

Want to prep for a studio assistant role? An audition interview? A grant pitch? You can ask AI to simulate common questions and even give you tips on how to answer them. It’s like having a rehearsal partner—just one that never gets tired of your monologue.

You can also use AI to break down tough questions, practice storytelling, or figure out how to explain a complicated project in simple terms.

4. Don’t Let AI Kill Your Voice

A quick word of caution: don’t rely on AI to do the thinking for you.

Copying and pasting straight from AI tools without editing can make your application feel robotic or off-base. Worse, you might include information that’s outdated or flat-out wrong. And in the arts—where originality, authenticity, and personal connection really matter—that’s a big no.

Use AI as a creative assistant, not a replacement. You bring the spark; AI just helps you shape it.

Final Thoughts: Use the Tools, Own the Journey

Landing your first job in the arts might not look like a straight line. It may be part-time gigs, freelance work, or short-term projects before you find your groove. But using AI can help you approach the process with strategy, clarity, and a lot less stress.

The creative industries reward people who know how to tell their stories—and with AI by your side, you can do just that, from your resume to your next audition or gallery pitch.

Informational Interview with Alejandrina Medina ’21: Graduate Student at UC San Diego

I had the opportunity to conduct an informational interview with Lawrence alumna Alejandrina Medina ’21. Medina currently attends the University of California, San Diego as a soon-to-be PhD candidate in the Integrative Studies Program (Music) and graduate specialization in Critical Gender Studies. In this reflection, I will touch on some of the main talking points from our interview with, including Medina’s career path and advice for Lawrentians interested in pursuing graduate school.

How Lawrence Shaped Medina’s Career Interests

Medina’s academic journey began with a love for music education and performance, aiming to become a public K-12 music educator. But her path took a fascinating turn when she discovered a passion for research, writing, and interdisciplinary practice. By junior year, Medina had crafted a self-designed major in Performance Studies, blending musicology and creative practice. This pivotal decision allowed her to explore graduate school opportunities with the support of mentors like Brigetta Miller and Sonja Downing. During her final year at Lawrence, Medina secured a Graduate School Exploration Fellowship through the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. This experience solidified Medina’s focus on research, ultimately leading to her acceptance into a PhD program at the University of California, San Diego. This phase of her journey highlights the importance of adaptability and the willingness to pursue interests beyond initial expectations.

Navigating an Evolving Career Path

The evolution of Medina’s career pathway demonstrates the interconnectedness of varied experiences. From her beginnings in music education and performance, Medina embraced interdisciplinary research during her PhD program. She painted a vivid picture of her doctoral journey—fusing music studies with critical theory, performance art, literature, philosophy, and more. This multifaceted approach has not only deepened her expertise but also inspired innovative ways of understanding art and music. Beyond academics, she has dedicated four years to teaching, initially as a teaching assistant and now as an instructor leading her own class on race, sex, and performance in Latin American music. Medina’s story reinforces the idea that career paths can evolve and intersect in unexpected yet enriching ways.

Advice for Current Lawrentians

Medina’s advice is straightforward yet profound: just take the leap. Apply to graduate programs if that’s your goal—there’s value in starting the journey. She emphasized the importance of preparation, not only academically but also professionally, such as teaching independently as early as possible. Her experiences also underline the value of exploring nontraditional opportunities, like internships in nonprofit arts management, to broaden professional horizons. One of Medina’s key takeaways from Lawrence University was the emphasis on flexibility and a willingness to experiment with new paths. This adaptability equipped her to navigate the challenges of a less-defined academic and professional future with confidence.

Alejandrina’s story is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary education and the courage to embrace uncertainty. It’s a reminder that where you start doesn’t have to limit where you can go.