ALTOONA — With the national unemployment rate near 10 percent, career services departments at colleges are working harder than ever to help their students find jobs.

Students need to take a multipronged approach to their job search, said Rebecca B. Maguda, director of the career services office on Penn State's Altoona campus.

"Networking is the key. Their contacts can expose them to the hidden job market. You have to be an active job seeker and put time into it on a weekly basis and follow up on those leads," Maguda said. "The job search can seem like a full-time job in itself."

Networking can be very important, said Darwin Kysor, director of career services at Juniata College in Huntingdon.

He said the college has recently emphasized using alumni as networking consultants.

"They are a great resource for us and our students," Kysor said. "Through networking, you can get leads and an interview and a chance to sell yourself."

Internships can also be a valuable tool toward landing a job.

Larry Brugh, the assistant dean of student affairs and director of career services at Mount Aloysius College in Cresson, said he is a big proponent of internships, which sometimes lead to job offers.

"Students really need the everyday experience and to get hands-on training so they are more marketable," Brugh said.

Persistence and a good attitude are very helpful.

Julie Barris, director of career services at St. Francis University in nearby Loretto, said students need a healthy dose of both.

"Students need to have persistence and a positive attitude. I believe persistence pays off," Barris said. "I believe a positive attitude and persistence and a good plan will open up opportunities for them."

Kysor agreed persistence is important and recommended students work at getting a job.

"If you are waiting for someone to come to you and offer you a job, you are going to be sitting around a long time," Kysor said. "In this economy, you have to be more proactive. Being persistent is one of the biggest keys."

Students should take advantage of the career services departments at their colleges, which offer numerous resources including career fairs. Penn State Altoona held one in mid-October that attracted more than 50 employers.

Maguda said career fairs give students and alumni an opportunity to network with potential employers.

"We urge students to get out to these with polished resumes and interview skills," Brugh said. "They need to sell themselves harder than in the past."