Advice for Students and Recent Graduates on Finding Jobs

Wessel’s first business was the Penn Eats Card, a student discount card she sold for $15 after arranging offers with local restaurants. She and co-founder JJ later built a campus ambassador jobs project that grew to tens of thousands of users, then used what they learned to start WayUp after leaving their jobs.

Wessel recommends a specific subject line, a concise introduction, and a clear reason for contacting that person. Show that you researched them and ask a short question they can answer by email. She says to avoid generic requests to pick someone’s brain or schedule a call.

Wessel advises applying to many relevant jobs and using REAF: research, enthusiasm, ask questions, and follow-up. She suggests learning about the company, asking thoughtful questions that a quick search cannot answer, and sending a specific thank-you note within 24 hours. For communication practice, she recommends honest feedback from people who communicate well.

Wessel describes team building as one of the hardest parts of growing WayUp, including hiring senior employees and persuading them to join a young company. She learned to use role scorecards and says candidates need confidence in both the business and the manager they would work with. She also emphasizes adapting management to people’s strengths and focusing on a few core priorities.

WayUp combines personalized job recommendations, candidate profiles, and career advice; Wessel says one in three applicants through the platform get hired. She favors hiring based on skills over degree or major, and says small companies should explain their mission and the strength of their team. Students can test career paths through part-time jobs and internships, then prioritize work they expect to enjoy and learn from.