Job & Internship Search Tips

Narrow down your search to allow for a more focused, effective search process. 

Still Exploring or Narrowing your focus? Visit Major & Career Exploration for resources specifically focused on learning more about CLA majors and Career Fields.

Generally it is good to begin your job search 3-5 months before you hope to start a position, but it is important to research your industry of interest because peak recruiting periods vary.

• Search Handshake - UMN’s job and internship platform.
• Visit our Career Field guides for recommendations for field-specific job and internship boards or find relevant job boards online by searching based on your field of interest (for example: nonprofits, the arts, marketing) and the location you’d like to work (Minnesota, Washington, etc). 
• Search for job boards focused on sharing opportunities for any specific identities that you hold, significant professional associations, or any community groups that are a fit for you.
• Search for specific organizations and companies that align with the work you want to do. Visit their Human Resources or “Jobs” page to find postings for open positions or internship programs.
• Find “Hidden Opportunities” by talking with people you know about your interests, or reaching out directly to organizations or companies you’re interested in. Especially in the nonprofit sector, many organizations are open to hosting internships but have not created one. Make a connection and request to learn more or ask whether an opportunity exists! Especially if you have flexibility in terms of compensation, or you apply for internship funding for an unpaid opportunity, it may be a successful strategy!

Attend an upcoming Career Fair to make a direct connection with employers who are recruiting for internship and job opportunities. 

Career Fairs align with hiring- Events such as the Business & Tech Internship & Career Fair (September), the Government & Nonprofit Fair (October), and the spring UMN Job and Internship Fair (February) provide excellent timelines to guide your search, refine your application materials, and submit your applications.

Review the position description, noting the skills and experiences the employer is seeking. Next, draft or edit your own application materials, ensuring that you emphasize those skills and experiences you have that align with the position. The CLA Career Guide offers more in-depth guidance for how to create and tailor your application materials, along with samples.

Talk about the type of role you are seeking with your family, friends, classmates, faculty in your department and other contacts. If they don’t know your interests they will not be able to help you in your search, or send you relevant opportunities they may know about.

Grow your Connections - Utilize the Maroon and Gold Network or LinkedIn to identify UMN alumni who you are curious about connecting with based on their current position, major, employer, or previous experiences. Consider reaching out to request an informational interview, a brief conversation for you to learn more about their path. Learn more about informational interviews in the CLA Career Guide.

An excellent interview begins with a strong understanding of the role you have applied for, the potential employer, and awareness of your own skills and strengths as a candidate. Carefully review the position description as you prepare for your interview. Practice articulating how your skills, experiences, and strengths align with the opportunity and ensure you have several strong examples of past experiences (in the classroom, student groups, or previous jobs) to share at the interview.

Visit the CLA Career Guide for interview preparation strategies and tips.