Networking: Get Plugged In

Put Yourself Out There!

You might feel awkward going to an event as a student. But here is the secret: everyone is feeling a little awkward. Making conversation with people you don’t know is hard. But networking events are great because talking to strangers is expected: in fact, that is why everyone is there. They want to meet people and connect. The simplest way to start a conversation is to introduce yourself and then ask someone what they do for work. You can always have other questions to help build the conversation:

  • “That’s great; what company do you work for?”
  • “How long have you been there?”
  • “How long have you been doing that?”

Once you ask the questions, be an active listener. Inquire further about projects, activities, and personal hobbies. Show you are interested in connecting with them through your actions and body language. The best connections are the ones where you discover shared interests and common goals. If you are attending an event where you have access to the attendance list, consider researching attendees to help you build connections and conversation.

In-Program Opportunities

If you’re looking for a way to connect with your fellow design students within the program, the program offers a club and a variety of events that you can attend. Your classmates can offer valuable information and advice on current projects and you may even end up working with them in the future!

  • VCD Club
  • Sack Lunches
  • Workshops

On-Campus Opportunities

There are many opportunities to network and gain experience right here at EWU. Connect with the EWU Career Center to see current job openings and events. The annual events below are great places to start:

  • STEM Career Fair, Fall Quarter
  • FUSE Career Fair, Winter Quarter
  • SOAR Conference, Spring Quarter

Stay up to date on Handshake for internship and job opportunities on campus that relate to design. The EWU offices listed below regularly hire design students.

  • Athletics
  • ASEWU
  • Career Center
  • College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
  • Eagle Store
  • EPIC Adventures
  • Housing & Residential Life
  • Office for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • Office of Sustainability
  • SAIL
  • Student Affairs
  • Student Employment

Attend co-curricular events (pro tip: these can be listed on resumes or help with interview answers).

  • Theatre Performances
  • Film Screenings
  • Music Performances
  • Guest Lectures
  • Ally Trainings
  • Sack Lunches

Local Opportunities

There are also plenty of local industry opportunities in and around Spokane. Follow local creative firms on social media to be the first to know of student opportunities and check Handshake often. Below is a list of firms and local businesses that regularly offer design internships.