Unfortunately, for many companies, they will only accept applications on-line. The best way to find work is through networking. If your daughter knows someone who works for the organization, she may want to contact them and see if they could put in a good word for her with the hiring manager. If not, she could follow-up the application by submitting a nice resume and cover letter by mail. Every company is different as it pertains to accepting paper applications/resumes. However, it cannot hurt if this is where she really wants to work. Tell her good luck and hang in there.

It is important to follow all of the application directions listed for a posting. Therefore, she should definitely continue to submit the applications online, if that is what is requested. However, that doesn't mean that she can't also follow up with a hard copy cover letter and resume. I also suggest to students that they place a call a week or so after their application is submitted to follow up and again express their interest.

Hi Tamara! I would also that recent grads use their social networks (Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook). As Martha states below, its all about networking. One of my co-workers recently shared how she laddered her way to a job after graduation: http://careerfuel.net/2012/06/internet-nav-to-find-your-new-boss/

Ignoring an organization’s online application process by showing up unannounced will certainly distinguish a candidate, but not in the way you might think. Most organizations use an online application process because they simply are not staffed to field phone calls or inquiries made in person. A candidate who attempts to circumvent a company’s application process by showing up unannounced is telling an employer, “Your rules don’t apply to me,” or “I can’t follow directions.”

Since your son's goal is to attend college in January, I would encourage him to find a part-time job. That way he can continue to work at the same company once he begins school. At St. Charles Community College, we start enrolling for the Spring semester on October 29.

I agree with Martha. Seasonal employment may be his best option if he definitely plans to attend college this January. However your quote that "he may want to go to school" suggests that he isn't sure yet about his career goals. If that is the case, I would recommend he spend some time exploring his career options and seek a job in an area of interest. Most colleges offer evening and part-time options when he is confident about his path and some bigger organizations offer tuition reimbursement for their employees.

The Lindenwood College for Individual Education (LCIE) program was designed specifically for working adults. Courses are scheduled on the quarter system and a student earns nine (9) semester credits during each quarter with a total of thirty-six (36) credits possible during a calendar year. Classes meet thirteen times in twelve weeks generally from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm one night a week. Class enrollment is limited to 12-14 students and writing and oral skills are emphasized. Courses are taught using the Socratic Method emphasizing student interaction; thus, students benefit from the experiences that peers bring to the classroom.