Hi Itzel,
I agree with Angela. This is my story.
So according to my timeline, I recently got my EAD and still awaiting my SSN. I still did not allow this to stop me. The very next day, I hit up my local mall to start sending out those apps.
I applied at,
Macy's
Lord & Taylor
Barnes n Noble
Express
Bath and Body Works
I've had 3 interviews with Macy's, Lord & Taylor, and Express. I was late for the one at BB because of the rain and public transportation (I know, bad sign and that's why I applied to the mall. Note: I don't have a car so all these places are in the same mall and 7-10 mins away by bus).
Happy to say, I landed all three jobs; two on the spot. These are my tips:
Use school extracurricular--I worked in a lab, I was on a Mock Trial Team
Use internship experiences (even if unpaid)--I interned at a latino cultural center, community center, and law firm
Use community activities (church, cultural organization)--I helped out in the office at church
Use sports
Use teachers, counselors, friends as references--I used friends and family friends. Some applications want to hear what your co-workers have to say about you.
In the interview
Make eye contact (very important)
Make small talk while the interviewer is settling down/shuffling for papers (usually looking for your application)
In retail, compliment them on something (your necklace is beautiful, nice lip color lol)
Be confident (sit straight, hands on lap)
Answer questions directly (don't blibber blabber lol, I tend to do that in everyday convo)
I have had a lot of interviews and have been to mock interviews so I'm just sharing what I learn.
Another note: do not settle for less. E.g. I intern at an immigration law firm. I started earlier this year. The position is unpaid. It is a small practice and I am the first "employee." Now, she offered me a position in August and I was excited but nervous at the same time due to my situation. Anyways, I went along and learned a lot about DACA and applied. Then, I waited patiently and prayed for a quick turn around. A couple weeks ago, my employer said that she wanted to pay me $9/hr.
SAY WHAT!?!
I was crushed. She is definitely taking advantage of me. Although, I do not have a lot of experience. I know her company in and out and the starting rate for inexperienced legal assistant (my title and position) is $12/hr. Anyways, with my mom's counsel and my own intuition, I gave her my resignation letter last week. She was disappointed but accepted and we're still cool.
Anyways, long story short, do not allow employers to take advantage of you. You may feel inferior because of your lack of experience but still determine what you will accept and what you won't when applying for a job. Know what the standard rate for different levels of experience is in that industry. Just my personal take!
I hope this helps and lemme know if you have questions.