Ed Note: Since new college graduates are among the hardest hit during the downturn, I thought it would be helpful to ask a recent graduate to write about her experiences. Kristin Davie is a recent graduate of Marist College and has contributed several articles this summer.

freejobsby Kristin Davie, for WWDS

I’ve been fortunate enough to witness the birth of some great inventions- McDonald’s Snackwraps, the iPhone, TiVo, and the handy tool that allows me to track my Dominoes pizza order online. Despite all of mankind’s best efforts, however, the world has yet to produce a tree that bears dollar bills and so I remain an unemployed, broke, college graduate (much to the growing dismay of my parents).

No job = No $$$

The equation is simple enough. Over the past several weeks I’ve done my best to shed my unfortunate status as a recession statistic. Recently, though, I decided to take a second look at my approach. At a graduation party this past weekend, I spoke with several friends of mine about the job search- namely- how much we’ve all actually spent on the process itself. Granted, many of the job boards we use are free (thank GOD), but the cost of traveling to an interview(s) can add up, especially if you happen to be an idealistic co-ed with a soft spot for New York City.

Then of course there are the supplies- pant suit (I’ve been told blue is the best color to wear on an interview), spiffy leather-bound portfolio, etc.

Alright, so I’m exaggerating a bit, but there’s no money coming in so I tend to notice every penny I spend.

How then do I tip the equation in my favor?

A college professor of mine told me that when I do finally land a full-time position, I won’t remember how much a roundtrip ticket in to NYC cost or how much I spent re-filling my Metrocard. I’ve simply got to swallow the cost and do whatever I can to stand out, and eventually I’ll be repaid for my hard work (wise words, Tim Massie).

These words ring especially true as competition grows and graduates must now consider pouring more money into their job search. Even with my moderate grasp of social media, maintaining my own blog is not enough anymore. Now every Tom, Dick, and Harry has one of their own. It’s hard to consider this when applying for jobs, but I’ve come to realize that every posting I apply to online is seen by hundreds of other pairs of eyes (and some of them are probably better qualified).

I can see how some could be hesitant to spend more money creating their brand image, but I’ve found it’s really helpful, if not necessary, in today’s market. Yes, the equation doesn’t quite pay off right away, but as my professor said, the odds will eventually tip in my favor- and those odds have a greater chance of tipping sooner if I invest a bit more in my personal resume.

I’m still crossing my fingers that money will one day grow on trees, though.