Positive attitude and confidence. Willingness to learn. Cheerfulness. Good grooming. Smiles. "Can-do" attitude. Dress neatly. Leave your phone at home.

At age 18, I got a summer job with the Michigan State Dept. of Natural Resources, Waterways Division.

"Can you drive a half-ton truck with a stick shift?" the interviewer asked. "Sure," I said confidently, figuring I could learn.

On the first day, the supervisor stood on the porch of the Ranger Station to watch me drive away. I climbed into the huge truck. Suddenly a new employee hopped into the passenger seat.

"Hi, I'm Kathleen and I don't know how to drive a stick shift," I said, shaking his hand. "You're going to teach me right now."

The hell of it was, HE DID. With him coaching, I jammed it into first gear and lurched out of the driveway.

For three years, this was my summer job while attending the University of Michigan. A lake access site supervisor. Getting to work early, I was off at 2:00 p.m.and went water-skiing.

Have to start somewhere. Any work history is a plus and an asset for you. Wash dishes. I did.