4th yr student, when do i start to apply for corporate jobs?

[danxdan]

I will be going to Southern California after graduating in May( yes i know its really rough in CA) so im realistic though.

my question is, if i want to work in a commercial/corporate setting like for sears/walmart/ or one of those options when should i apply.

because i won't get a license until a few mos after i graduate, correct? so should i be applying to these places now while in school or wait until i get an acutal license.

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[OpticalBlackOut]

Start applying now, especially if you can talk to OD recruiters who often work with students on rotations.

It's more common for private practices to want to see experience/want you to fill in after you have a license, but starting early (I started toward end of 3rd year) gives you a definite advantage over other graduates who are procrastinating. I had an employer say specifically that they liked my initiative on contacting them so early.

Edit: Be ready to really stand out as an applicant in California. Being able to perform exams in Spanish and/or Chinese is crucial. Otherwise, you're most likely looking at multiple PT and fill-in.

 

[danxdan]

so is PT and even fill-in shifts readily available or is that even tough to get? im ok with living low and not making much money but i just need enough to make loan payments. i have housing/expenses covered luckily with help from family.

 

[20DOC20]

NOW.

 

[OpticalBlackOut]

so is PT and even fill-in shifts readily available or is that even tough to get? im ok with living low and not making much money but i just need enough to make loan payments. i have housing/expenses covered luckily with help from family.

You may have found this out yourself already, but the answer is: it depends.
Most places want you working Friday/Saturday/Monday (or Sunday if they're open), so those are easy to find...I would suggest securing PT for those days.
Tuesday/Weds/Thurs. though? Pretty tough to come by, so those might be your open fill-in days.
Best of luck