yeah, I'm that desperate.

[Ibrahim]

OK, so lack of a better idea, but here goes:

I've recently (~7 months ago come the 12th) graduated with a bachelor's in Geology, from Colorado State University, at or near top of the class. I've since been looking for a job, while at the same time continuing my quest to continue my education (specifically an MS, then a PhD). I have quite a school loan to pay off (20-something thousand dollars), and need to begin paying them off ASAP.

Jobs I'm qualified for in Geology (or anything really) are plentiful enough, and there's hardly a day I don't find something to apply to. That's where the problems begin: No one is hiring me. Not in Geology, not in most normal jobs--not even the Krogers a mile away want to consider me, and they're paying minimum wage and only offer part-time. I apply, filling out paperwork, or sending resumes (and filling out more paperwork), and yet nothing. No reply, or when there is, it's to the tune of "f*** you, we're not interested". The one place I did find turned out to be a pyramid scheme (you can imagine how that goes), so I had to cut quickly before I took any real loss.

I've tried everything: I've networked as much as I can, I worked and reworked my resumes and CV's, I tried to keep a positive outlook--I even cleaned up my facebook account (such as it exists). But several months later, and with the next round of graduate school applications up (as are my loans), I'm reaching the end of my tether. I've managed to scrounge up enough money to apply to just two places, and as such my chances of success in application are low to none. No one is hiring me anywhere, and I have no way of paying off my loans. The only option I have left is the military, but I don't know if it's a good idea or not, and it doesn't sit well with me.

in short: does anyone have any ideas? any suggestions? any way of getting real work, gainful employment?

[TinCow]

Have you looked at Federal jobs? The Department of the Interior employs a crapton of geologists, mainly in the USGS and NPS. A keyword search for Geologist on USAJOBS pulls up 138 results at the moment. The Fed application process is a major pain in the ass, but it's worth exploring if you haven't tried it yet.

Other than that, I would simply say keep applying and trying. It can be a really tough experience, but persistence pays off. It took me 2.5 years to find a permanent job after I graduated, but I eventually got there. I realize you said you've networked as much as you can, but I do want to emphasize that networking is the best way to find a job. If you've really tapped out all your connections, then you go out and try and make new ones. Do volunteer work or join social groups where you're likely to meet people in your industry, cultivate those relationships and try and get advice from them. Also work your school heavily, both the career department and your peers/professors.

[Tellos Athenaios]

At the risk of suggesting something you tried already: city/urban planning departments might be worth a look. Perhaps a bit of a long shot, but you could try companies that sell GIS as well.

[Ibrahim]

yeah, I did give it a go: haven't had luck with that. besides, many of the jobs require a PhD and/or career field experience--neither of which I have. those that are left (few in number) I have long ago applied to.

and the career center is less than useless, and the Professors I've talked to have no advice for me: they tend to concern themselves with masters or PhD students. If anything, they're shocked I don't have a job, as all the other students I graduated with do. It's like I'm being singled out, only I'm not, because I'm the only one left without a job to my knowledge.

@ Tellos: already been there.

EDIT: actually, is anyone else here a geologist? maybe such a person might help set up a situation where I can find work.

[woad&fangs]

I graduated last month with a B.S. in Biology so I can sympathize with your situation.

If you are worried about the loans, have you tried getting them deferred due to unemployment?

As for finding a job itself, even if you don't think your professors are helpful, ask the ones you were close to if they would let you know of any opportunities they hear about that they think you would be good for. I have an interview soon for a job I only heard about because a professor I did research with was asked if he knew anyone who would be a good fit. Another thing is don't be afraid to apply for jobs where you don't fit every requirement. That interview I got? I didn't have the experience they "required" but I knew I had the skills they really wanted.

Another avenue you might want to explore is to use USAjobs.com like TinCow was talking about, but search for wildlife and biology related jobs. A lot of them are really just looking for a strong general science background and experience with GIS would be a major asset. It is a skill I lack and it has been majorly affecting what jobs I have been applying to.

I wish you the best of luck

[Crazed Rabbit]

Don't give up.

Like Tincow said, it can take a lot longer than 7 months to get a job, sadly.

Also, network, more. Bug professors about job opportunities and for letters of recommendation. See if there's geologist type meetings (chemical engineers have American Institute of Chemical Engineers local meetups, and there's more general engineering meetups as well.)

Finally - follow up the resumes you send (make sure to included custom cover letters as well). A call or email to the HR rep - or even better, whoever's in charge of the geologist department/hiring - to follow up definitely improves your chances. About a week or so after you send the resume.

That's all I can think of for now - but again, don't give up.

CR

[spankythehippo]

Do you have any work experience or internships? That really goes a long way. Employers tend to favour graduates with experience but lower marks than a graduate with high marks with no experience at all.

Finding a job to get that experience is tough, so internships are the way to go. But most internships are unpaid (I think).

I don't know if all that exists in the US, but I'm just putting it out there.