You shake your college president's right hand, accept your hard-earned college diploma with your left, pause to smile for the camera and then you and millions of graduates across the globe compete to stake your claim in the workforce. But, beyond the college or university name branded on your resume, what marketable skills will distinguish you from the competition?

College experts agree that there are several practical skills that are learned during your college experience that can be transferred from the classroom to your resume to make you more marketable. If you're cringing right now, thinking that you don't have anything to offer, you might be surprised of the skill set that you may have already developed. Consider asking yourself the following questions to help hone-in on your skill set:

1. Can you multitask? Sure you can, when your 10-page research paper is due, your study group meets in five minutes and financial aid needs to see you - all in the same day. This is a testament to your organizational skills and proves that you are deadline driven.

2. Are you analytical? You didn't write those reflection papers for nothing; the fact that you are able to analyze data, draw conclusions and offer solutions takes skill.

3. Got the write stuff? Effective communication skills are a necessity. Despite your professional career path, good writing skills are paramount and this skill can market you to the top.

Emerging from college with a solid skill set, however, is only half of the battle. Genene Strickland, career counseling and alumni coordinator at Baltimore International College says, "while your skill set is important, in a competitive workplace, college students need to realize that practical experiences are key." "Internships and work-study programs, even a diverse curriculum," she explains, "can give students that extra competitive edge when applying for positions where there are several qualified applicants."

College experts suggest the following quick tips that you can start implementing now to better market yourself before you accept your college degree:

1. Stay connected: Network with respective professionals by gaining student membership with local associations; they can serve as excellent resume references or even potential employers.

2. Know your craft: Stay informed on new trends in your field.

3. Punctuate your career: Hablo Espanol? Learn a second language and add it to your resume.

You are your best marketing tool, be confident and market yourself.