The process has been ingrained in many students' heads since that initial campus tour: Go through the four years of college, complete an internship or two, then secure a job post-graduation.

But to some, that formula doesn't work. The idea of diving head first into a full-time job might be too daunting. But don't worry — there are other options.

1. Internships

An internship is a good way to sample a job before signing on for the rest of your life (or at least a few years of it). Try something major related, or not. After all, it's probably only for a few weeks.

There are many search engines available for aspiring interns. Try Intern Queen or Intern Match for easy-to-search job options. Or to receive a steady stream of opportunities to your inbox, enter your e-mail address into One Day, One Internship. This way, you can browse from the comfort of your own bed.

2. City Year

City Year is a program dedicated to stopping students from dropping out of school. The group does this by working hands-on with youths through mentorship programs and tutoring. A team of between eight and 15 people ages 17 to 24 are placed in an elementary, middle or high school district participating in the program.

Some of the available cities are New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia and Boston.

To be considered for a position with the team, applicants must have spent some time in college and should have experience with children.

After completing the program, which runs for 10 months, volunteers receive a $5,500 award to be used toward education. Though a stipend for living expenses is offered throughout the program, workers are not paid. For more information, visit cityyear.org.

3. Peace Corps

Though this program has a longer span (27 months), the benefits are tremendous. Volunteers sign on to help with one of six problem areas: education; youth and community development; health and HIV/AIDS; business and information and communication technology; and agricultu­­re and environment. Once placed in a topic area, the volunteer is flown to one of many destinations abroad with all expenses paid.

Once at their destination, volunteers work