How to Stand Out from the Crowd
- skessler81
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
For college students and recent grads, it's getting harder and harder to differentiate from their peers. The AI tools used by major recruiters are built to handle applications at a scale that no one wants to even think about.
The number of applications submitted on LinkedIn has surged more than 45% in the past year, with nearly 9,500 applications submitted every minute...
CNBC, October 29, 2025
At GapWell, we encourage our clients to face the challenge by focusing on what they can control:
Develop a dynamic strategy
Execute a differentiated plan thoughtfully
Set aggressive, but achievable goals
Be accountable to deadlines and targets
Embrace failure as part of the overall strategy
ABC ("always be connecting" ... as you never know who you may meet on a plane, in the hallway between classes or really anywhere life takes you)
Whether it's a summer internship or their first job after college, young adults need to focus on quality over quantity.
AI alone is no match for a thoughtfully executed job strategy and application
AI is a valuable tool, but it's not how college students differentiate themselves. Learning how to network effectively remains one of the most overlooked career readiness skills that extroverts and introverts alike have to practice to make the most of informal and formal interview opportunities.
GapWell's results speak for themselves
First and foremost, the young adult needs to be ready to put the work in as it's a lot harder than simply hitting "submit" on Handshake, LinkedIn or Indeed.
The foundational work is focused on one's personal statement and all the tools -- resume, LinkedIn, in-person -- that are required to support one's strategy of making the right first impression.
In such a competitive environment, the likelihood of being given a second chance to make a first impression is slim.
I’m grateful for all of your support in securing not one, but two internships. Your guidance in refining my resume, applications, interviewing, and networking was incredibly helpful. By encouraging me to develop a cohesive story and to utilize my resources, you allowed me to find opportunities that aligned with my long-term career goals. Our work really paid off!”
New York University, Class of 2027
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for supporting me in my job process and I’m so thankful it worked out the way it did. You guys taught me to consider my values and approach the process very thoughtfully. Thanks for all the time you guys spent tweaking resumes, profiles, and more. I will definitely keep in touch as I move to NYC and get started in my role.
The University of Texas at Austin, Class of 2024
...what a great help you were to me!
Brown University, Class of 2025
I'm really excited about the opportunity, and I wanted to thank you both for all the support you gave me throughout the internship process. Your help with preparing for networking calls, interviews and everything in between made a big difference, and I truly appreciate it.
Emory University, Class of 2026
Every client is different. So the strategy that is employed for each individual is never the same.
No matter where a client is on their college and career journey, GapWell drives their success by teaching them how to achieve their goals.
Whether you're a parent or a friend, watching a young adult put in the work and achieving their goals is awe-inspiring. In fact, many GapWell clients achieve even more than they realize they are capable of, which is a valuable lesson not just in college, but in life.
Unlocking 🔐 internship and career opportunities is a lot easier when you have a strong partner and a highly customized strategy that works.
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The leading provider of products and services focused on the journey from high school to career, GapWell offers young adults the valuable insights they need to thrive on their journey no matter what path they choose. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation to learn how to accelerate the path to success.
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