Figuring out what to do after graduation is always difficult, but finding great options in a down economy can be even more of a challenge. A degree is no guarantee of employment, but there are several strategies to make the most of your accomplishment and land a dream job, even in a recession.

Use campus career resources.
Your campus likely has a career center with professionals who are devoted to helping students land internships or full-time positions. Make good use of these resources and do a lot of research. If you aren’t completely sure of what you want to do, this can be a great place to learn more about what’s out there, consider possibilities, and make goals.

Be willing to start small.
Although many graduates frown upon internships because of their lower pay rate and short-term status, internships are a fantastic way for new grads to get their careers started. Although not all internships are dream jobs, they are great learning experiences that will show future employers that you are passionate about your chosen field and are willing to work hard and start at the bottom to get where you want to be. Internships are also great opportunities to impress companies that could be hiring again by the time an internship ends, which means you could be first in line and first in bosses’ minds when hiring decisions get made.

Network as much as possible.
Networking is usually the best way to find a position, and recent graduates aren’t exempt. In fact, recent grads need networking more than most since hiring a grad with little experience is usually a leap of faith. Having someone who knows you already or who will vouch for your abilities, ethics and personality is paramount.

Don’t let the down economy get you down. If you identify your passions, make goals, and are willing to work hard, you’ll eventually get what you want.