Gain Experience

Your classroom projects are more than just assignments—they’re opportunities! These projects, from research papers to capstone projects, allow you to tackle real-world challenges while building skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and technical expertise. With support from your professors, you can create work that stands out in the professional world.

• Engage Fully in Team Projects
  Take an active role in group assignments by collaborating effectively, communicating openly, and sharing ideas. Use these projects to develop teamwork and leadership skills that are highly valued in the workplace.
• Explore Research Opportunities with Faculty
  Approach your professors to discuss potential research projects or assist with ongoing studies. This is a great way to dive deeper into your field, gain mentorship, and build your academic resume.
• Present Your Work to Broader Audiences
  Share your achievements by participating in academic conferences, poster sessions, or university showcases. Presenting your work helps you gain confidence, network with professionals, and receive valuable feedback.

Not sure how to add your projects to your resume or how they could possibly relate to the job you are applying to?
Make an Appointment with a Career Advisor

Spending a few hours or a full day with a professional lets you see what their job is really like. You’ll gain insights into workplace dynamics, learn about different roles, and have the chance to ask questions about careers that interest you.

If you do not know where to start, Make an Appointment with a Career Advisor for help connecting with professionals or setting up shadowing opportunities!

The Eagle Career Network is a great place to start.

Do not underestimate the value of a full- or part-time job while in college, even if it is not in your chosen field. These jobs help you build essential skills like customer service, leadership, and adaptability, which are critical in any career.

Employers look for candidates who have proven they can handle responsibility and work in diverse environments. Use these experiences to refine your professional abilities and highlight them on your resume as examples of your readiness to succeed in the workplace.

These roles also allow you to expand your professional network, forming connections with coworkers and managers who can serve as references or mentors as you move forward in your career.

Community organizing is a powerful way to develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that translate directly to the workplace. By rallying others around a common cause, managing events, or coordinating campaigns, you demonstrate your ability to take initiative and create meaningful change.

Employers value candidates with experience in collaboration, strategic planning, and engaging diverse groups—all of which are core aspects of community organizing. Highlighting these experiences on your resume not only shows your dedication to social impact but also your ability to drive results.

Studying abroad is a transformative experience that can greatly enhance your career development. Immersing yourself in a new culture, learning a new language, or working in an international setting demonstrates adaptability, global awareness, and cross-cultural communication skills—qualities that are highly valued by employers in today’s interconnected world.

Whether through internships, volunteer work, or coursework, studying abroad shows your ability to thrive in unfamiliar environments, which is a key asset in any career.

Building experience through entrepreneurship, freelancing, or contract work allows you to gain a wide range of skills that will benefit your career, no matter what field you enter. These experiences teach you how to manage your time, interact with clients, and develop solutions for real-world problems.

Whether you are running your own business, offering freelance services, or completing contract-based projects, these roles can help you build a strong portfolio and demonstrate your capability to take initiative and work independently, all of which are highly valued by employers.

Your military service offers a unique and valuable perspective that sets you apart in the workforce. The leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills gained through military experience are directly transferable to many civilian jobs. Additionally, the ability to handle complex situations, manage resources, and remain calm under pressure can give you a competitive edge in your career.

Don’t hesitate to highlight your military background on your resume as it demonstrates discipline, commitment, and exceptional problem-solving skills.

Professional associations offer valuable opportunities to connect with others in your field, gain industry knowledge, and develop skills that make you a more competitive job candidate. By joining one, you can access conferences, webinars, and certifications that are designed to enhance your professional expertise.

Networking with other members provides opportunities for collaboration and mentorship, and can even open doors to job opportunities. Being involved in these associations shows potential employers that you are dedicated to staying current in your industry and taking proactive steps in your professional development.

Talk to your faculty in your major to see if there are any associations they would recommend – and check if they have student discounts!