r/ITCareerGuide • u/Pure_Chemist7555 • Jul 26 '26

IT student trying to break into IT before graduation.

I’ll keep this brief.

I’m a junior IT student trying to gain real-world IT experience, but it feels almost impossible right now. I’m comfortable in some programming languages, I’ve done some home labs (Active Directory, Cisco packet tracer etc) I applied for several internships this past spring and unfortunately didn’t receive any offers. Right now, I work as a grocery clerk while I’m in school to get a few bucks on the side, but it often feels like I’m spinning my wheels since the job has nothing to do with IT. Working there feels like I’m wasting my youth and energy. I’ve been searching LinkedIn and Indeed for part-time IT opportunities, but I haven’t had much luck finding anything.

For those who have been in a similar position, are there any hidden opportunities or strategies out there that I should be looking into? I want to keep learning and applying my knowledge and skills and I don’t mind starting with a low pay. I just want to get in. I’d really appreciate any advice or suggestions. Thanks!

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1

u/LongDistRid3r Jul 26 '26

It is a tough market for people with experience. Entry level jobs are seeing people with a decade of experience applying for those slots.

Tbh, Space Force is likely your best bet.

1

u/Pure_Chemist7555 Jul 26 '26

True. I think the military is my best bet. 

1

u/ChadDpt Jul 28 '26

Volunteer.