Hi Emily, I agree with Andrew that anyone who worked closely with you professionally and can discuss your skills is a great reference. I have used co-workers, CEO's, college professors, and even people I met while volunteering. I would say 3 strong references are a good plan, but some require a few more (depending on the job). If you can't use your past job I would focus NOW on finding other suitable references so you don't have to scramble when you are asked. Print their names and contact info (email/phone) on a piece of paper you can bring with you to interviews. If they ask you can hand it to them OR email it in advance. This way it's done and it's one less thing for you to worry about! Good luck.

So references are people who can attest to your skills, abilities, past performance, and qualifications for the job. Basically they say HEY I worked with her and she's awesome because of this, this, and that. Your references could be professors, advisors, co-workers, and supervisors. Reach out via email or phone and mention that you are applying for jobs and ask them if you can please add them as a reference. I would suggest sending them the name of the company and person you spoke to so they can be ready when they call. If your old boss isn’t the best person to have your new job contact, consider a fellow employee or someone else that was there that you worked alongside. Pretty much anyone that can say you did a great job with things while working at.... This is the person you are looking for! Good luck.