Students

Whether it’s your first time or you’re just looking to be better prepared, we’ve got everything you need to nail your one-on-ones with Handshake employers. Check out our top tips for successful virtual one-on-one sessions and how you can be your best self when you decide to meet with employers. How do I find employer one-on-ones? One-on-ones are a great way to get your face in front of recruiters, hiring managers, and employees who could impact your career path. Not sure where to start?  We’ll help you get started . Search for roles you’re interested in on Handshake. When you find one that piques your interest, schedule a virtual info chat that is attached to the posting (if available). Simply pick a time slot that works for you and schedule it! 
 Virtual career fairs (VCF) are a great way to meet top employers and get to know their cultures and more. Sign up for a VCF and find a time slot during the event to meet with the employer one-on-one. 
 Follow the employers you love to stay up-to-date on their one-on-one sessions and any job postings. As you save and apply to jobs, we’ll send you recommendations. If any of our recommendations seem like a good fit, you can schedule one-on-ones with those employers too! How do I get referrals? Make connecting with top employers or finding your dream job easier by simply asking people you know to refer you. We get that this is easier said than done, but if you  follow these tips , you’ll be getting referrals left and right. Start with friends, family, university alumni, or people who know you from sports clubs, classes, and more. 
 Build professional connections by attending VCF and networking events where you can meet employers, fellow students or recent graduates, and more. 
 Stay connected with your professional contacts. Just because they don’t know of any job openings now, doesn’t mean they won’t in the future. Check in every so often and make sure that you’re not only saying hi when you need something. Referrals can come from anyone, so don’t discount someone just because they don’t know anyone at your top company or can’t help you get a job immediately. How do I prepare for my one-on-one? When you meet with an employer, you have 10-15 minutes to make a great first impression, so you’ll want to  prepare in advance . This includes completing your Handshake profile (yes, employers do look at these!), practicing answering questions with a friend, researching the employer, and more. When you meet with an employer for your one-on-one, make sure to clean up your place or use a virtual background to keep the focus on you, not that dizzying painting in the background. Even though these virtual sessions aren’t formal, you still want to show the employer you’re taking them seriously. You may also want to brush up on your  elevator pitch . Talking about yourself doesn’t have to be awkward. Highlight your achievements and give a brief background of yourself. Oh, and practice, practice, practice! Lastly, ask questions. As eager as the employers are to get to know you, you want to get to know them too. What’s their culture like? What does the day-to-day look like for a specific role? If you’re not sure what else to ask, check out our list of  sample questions . I had my one-on-one. Now what? After your meeting, you should send a thank you message to the recruiter, hiring manager, or employee you spoke with. Here are a few ways you can  stand out when sending your thank you notes . Send your note out in a timely manner, ideally within 24 hours of talking. 
 Make it personal. Chances are that the employer you met with is likely meeting with other candidates, so you want to make sure they remember  you . Add personal details from your meeting that will make this easy. For example, did you and the recruiter find out that you’re from the same hometown? 
 Remind them why you’re the ideal candidate. You don’t want to spell out your experience again, but rather remind them  why  you’re such a great fit for the role. 
 Keep it short. All our inboxes are overflowing, so don’t write a page-long email. They don’t have time to read all that. Say what you need to say, make your point quickly, and send! 
 Don’t forget next steps. If you discussed next steps in the meeting, let them know you look forward to them — if not, you can tell them that you’re excited to hear back from them about next steps. Let them know that they can contact you with any additional questions too! 
 Don’t forget to spell-check. Copy and paste your email in a word document to confirm your email is free from typos and grammatical errors. And make sure you spell the interviewer’s name correctly! Ready? Let’s go! You’ve got everything you need to prepare for your one-on-one, be confident during your meeting, and wow your interviewer after your session. All you have to do now is schedule your virtual meeting! Check back here if you need help preparing or want to review our tips. We’re confident you’ve got this.

Your ultimate guide to mastering employer one-on-ones

You may have heard that meeting employers at virtual career fairs will help you land a job or internship this year. But we know you also have some questions—from what to wear to what to ask. So we’ve gathered the ten most commonly asked questions from students and answered them below. 1. What's the difference between a group session and a one-on-one session? Group sessions are primarily for employers to share more about their organizations with students. There is usually a Q&A portion where you can ask the employer a question. One-on-one sessions are 10 minute conversations between you and an employer to discuss your background and experience, as well as current job and internship opportunities. 2. Do I need to sign up for sessions before the virtual career fair starts? Yes! You should start signing up for sessions once you’ve registered for the fair. One of the biggest benefits of attending a virtual career fair is that you can secure your spot with the employers you want to meet. So it’s important to go through the fair schedule and sign up early for the sessions you want. 3. I don’t see any available sessions with the employers I’m interested in. What should I do? If you don’t see available sessions, it may mean that the employer is in the process of setting up their sessions, or their current sessions are full. Be sure to check back on the fair schedule in the days and hours leading up to the fair to view newly added sessions. You can also connect with your career center and ask if they're working with employers to open more session times. We also suggest having an open mind when deciding which employers to meet during virtual career fairs. Instead of focusing on the brand names you know, go through the full list of employers who are attending and view their Handshake pages to learn more. You may find a great match for you in an unlikely place. 4. Do I need to be on video? Having your video on during sessions is optional. You may also communicate with employers through audio or chat features. For one-on-one sessions, we recommend turning your video on to help employers make a strong connection with you. For group sessions with more than 15 attendees, student video will not be enabled unless you are asking a question. To ask a question during a group session, click the hand icon on your screen to “raise your hand”. The host will be able to call on you and enable your video. 5. What should I wear if I’m on video? Do I need a suit? You definitely want to dress to impress during virtual career fairs. But you don’t have to have the full head-to-toe ensemble (unless it makes you feel more confident, in which case go for it!) You’ll want to look professional up top—that could mean wearing a collared shirt, dressy sweater, or similar top. Choose whatever makes you look pulled together  and  feel your best. 6. How do I share my resume with employers? The easiest way to share your resume with employers is to upload it to your Handshake profile and make it visible. If you already have a resume, be sure to mark it as visible so that employers can view it. After you attend a virtual career fair, employers will have access to your resume when they download a list of participants from their sessions. Learn more about document visibility in this  Handshake Help Center article . For more information on uploading your resume, watch  How to Upload a Document . 7. I don’t want to be late. How soon can I join a session? You will be able to join a session 5 minutes before the scheduled start time. 8. What types of questions should I ask during a session? Virtual sessions are an opportunity for you to learn about employers and decide which are a good fit for you. Think about what interests you most about the employer you’re meeting with. What do you want to learn more about? Is it company culture? Career growth opportunities? Make a list of your priorities and then fill in questions for each. Take a bit of time to research each employer before your sessions. This will help you come up with a list of questions. It will also show the employer that you’re informed and prepared—two qualities they like to see! Check out their Handshake page for overview of the organization, student reviews, as well as open jobs and internships. Then head to their company website, and do a quick online search for recent news articles, press releases and other relevant information. This may help inspire your list of questions. You can find more tips for preparing questions and sample questions  here . 9. How should I introduce myself during a one-on-one session? The employers you meet during one-on-one sessions want to learn more about you and see if you’re a good fit for their open jobs or internships. So it’s important to prepare a brief introduction about yourself, including your background, studies, and career goals. Then practice with a friend or family member ahead of the fair so you’re ready. Find more tips for drafting your “elevator pitch”  here . 10. Can I drop out of group sessions early or should I wait for them to end? If you want to make a good impression with employers, you’ll want to stay for the entire session. You wouldn’t leave a one-on-one session early—so don’t disappear from a group session either. Employers have busy schedules just like you, and they’re taking valuable time to help you get to know their organization. Staying until the end of a session demonstrates that you’re responsible and respectful of their time. For more tips and advice, check out our  guide to attending virtual career fairs  or visit the  Handshake Help Center .

Your 10 Biggest Virtual Career Fair Questions, Answered

What is work-study? The Federal Work-Study Program  provides university students with part-time jobs to work to help supplement their income while they’re students. For students that benefit from more financial support, having work-study can set them up for success in college. What are the best work-study jobs? The best work-study jobs allow students to maintain flexibility for studying and extracurricular activities while also fostering a sense of responsibility and schedule organization. Six best work-study jobs for students: Resident/Community Assistants Campus Ambassador Teaching Assistant Research Assistant Library Attendant Tutor How much do work-study jobs pay/pay an hour? Most work-study roles pay at least your state minimum wage! Depending on the position and the tasks, you might be paid more. How do I know if I’m eligible for work-study? To figure out if you qualify for work-study, you first need to  submit an application to FAFSA  (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). After your application is processed, you will find out if you’re eligible for work-study. How to find work-study jobs? After you get approved for work-study at your individual college, you should get access to a job listing page with qualifying openings. Check your school’s on-campus job listing page and read the job description to see if that certain job works for your situation. What should I do for work-study? When deciding what to do for work-study, consider the type of job that would work for your schedule. For example, if you live in the residence halls it might be convenient for you to be a resident assistant or work on campus. If you commute to school, maybe consider a work-study job that allows remote work or another location to work at. Most work-study jobs are located on campus, so consider if that is a pro or con for you. Consider the following questions when looking for a work-study job: Do I want an on-campus job? Do I want my work-study job to set me up for a more serious job later? How many hours a week can I commit to work-study? How to balance work-study with school? Five tips for balancing work-study and school: Try not to procrastinate–do your projects in advance with time to spare Communicate to your boss if you have tests or presentations in advance so you can take time off or get your shifts switched with someone else Try and seek out a work-study job that relates to a passion of yours Dedicate time for mental health and personal wellness–without the pressures of school and work Build a positive network of friends and colleagues to help you study and share struggles of being a college student What jobs are work-study? Depending on your individual university, there are many various types of jobs that are work-study. Check with your school’s job listing page or  speak with career services  about your options. How many hours does a work-study job require? Work-study jobs typically do not make students work more than 20 hours a week. How do I get a work-study job? Once you’ve applied and been cleared for work-study, check with your university job listing page and begin applying to work-study jobs that pique your interest. Photo by  Monjur Hasan  on  Unsplash

Student Federal Work-Study Information: How to Get Work-Study Jobs

The truth is––not all of us want to sit in an office from 9 to 5 every weekday. And not all of us have the work experience or education for specific job opportunities. However, one thing almost all of us share is a motivation for job security and a steady income. What if we told you you could find a job with no prior experience required and one you can do from your recliner chair? Below we will detail some of the best jobs you can apply for that do not require any experience and are offered remotely. Here are the top 10 best work-from-home jobs that require no prior work experience: Virtual Assistant Data Entry Clerk Customer Service Representative Social Media Manager Writer Proofreader or Copyeditor Tutor Sales Representative Transcriptionist Search Engine Evaluator 1. Virtual Assistant Virtual assistant jobs are common among remote opportunities and require no prior experience for hire, as supervisors or managers will often provide training for the role. Responsibilities of a virtual assistant include administrative duties such as making phone calls, scheduling appointments, and planning meetings and events. This job also entails data entry, such as keeping track of spreadsheets and lead generation, where you find new prospects online. To succeed in this position, you should have the following: Attention to detail Multitasking skills Organization skills Basic knowledge of technology Average Salary:  $21,000 - $60,000 2. Data Entry Clerk Data entry clerk is another position best suited for those who prefer a work-from-home job requiring little to no experience. This job often comes with flexible hours, as data entry is optional to be completed during a 9-5 timeframe. Responsibilities include transferring information from a spreadsheet, order form, a printed document, or otherwise and inputting it to another organized source, usually digital. Other secondary duties include verifying information and checking the accuracy of the data. To succeed in this position, you should have the following skills and traits: Attention to detail Fast and proficient typing Efficiency Average Salary:  $23,000 - $42,000 3. Customer Service Representative For people who consider themselves talkers or social butterflies, customer service might be your perfect work-from-home job. Customer service representatives spend countless hours providing phone, email, or chat support to help customers with troubleshooting issues. However, if you're working remotely, something to keep in mind is the noise levels of your home or work environment. Customer service representatives must be fully available during set hours and free from distractions or interruptions. Also, expect strict working hours with little flexibility or growth opportunities. If this sounds like something you can handle, ensure you have the following personality traits and skills for success in this job: Patience Empathy Interpersonal skills Communication Average Salary:  $26,000 - 55,000 4. Social Media Manager Simply put, the role of the social media manager is to oversee the management of a company’s social media platforms. Usually, this includes Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, Instagram, and now, sometimes even Tik Tok. On a typical day, a social media manager will plan and schedule content for upcoming days or weeks, draft copy and design images or videos for scheduled posts, monitor the engagement and analytics of daily social media posts to see if the company is reaching their goals, and implement new or oversee ongoing marketing campaigns and strategies. This job isn’t for just anybody. You must have the following skills and traits to be a social media manager: Familiarity with all social media platforms (having a large following is a plus!) Writing and design Organization and time management Research and analytics Average Salary:  $36,000 - $81,000 5. Writer If you're creative and have a knack for words, you can consider writing as a good career path. There are multiple types of writing jobs that only require a little experience, and they all have different purposes. Below, we have outlined the top writing opportunities: Content Writing Content writers will create different types of online content, such as articles, blog posts, interviews, and more. Their goal is to educate or bring awareness to their company and drive more traffic to the website. Thus, a knowledge of good search engine optimization (SEO) practices is valuable, though optional, to this position. Typically, this job is flexible and remote, as you can write anytime and anywhere. Content writers can either work full-time for a company or freelance for multiple different companies. Average Salary:  $50,949 Copywriting A copywriter's job differs from a content writer's in a few ways. Mainly, copywriting is used by a company to sell its products or services. For instance, copywriters may draft copy for social media, websites or microsites, product brochures, product fact sheets, and other sales and marketing materials. While these jobs might not require prior job experience, it's important to note that this position will often require a bachelor's degree in writing, marketing, or communications. Average Salary:  $56,568 Technical Writer Technical writing breaks down complex topics to make them understandable to the general public. This type of writing usually includes brochures, pamphlets, instruction manuals, and other educational and informational resources that will educate the average person. Similar to copywriters, technical writers require a bachelor's degree. It also helps if the writers have a degree or special knowledge of the subject matter they're writing about. Average Salary:  $63,883 6. Proofreader or Copyeditor You might have assumed that proofreading and copyediting are one and the same—but they're not. While they share the same goal of eliminating errors in a written text, proofreading is the last step in the writing process. Proofreaders are the last eyes on the text to check for minor mistakes. Copyeditors do the brunt of the work, such as making changes to the text and structure to ensure clarity in the piece. Copyeditors and proofreaders are often hired as freelancers for certain companies. Other companies producing a higher content volume will hire full-time copyeditors and proofreaders. To succeed in this position, you should have the following skills: English spelling and grammar Eye for detail Determination to produce quality, finished works Average Salary:  $50,010 7. Tutor Are you exceptionally skilled in a specific area or subject matter? Are you good at teaching or working with kids? Tutoring could be the perfect opportunity for you to get paid for your knowledge and work with students of all ages. The primary responsibilities of tutors are to create lesson plans, assist students with completing their homework, and help them prepare for exams. Tutoring jobs, especially remote positions, are in high demand. These jobs allow flexibility in your schedules, as you can work with your students on the best times to connect. These jobs do not need prior professional experience. However, having a bachelor's degree in the specific field you're tutoring in is helpful to the role. Skills and traits needed for this position include: Interpersonal skills Teaching skills Patience and empathy Average Salary:  $22,000 - $84,000 8. Sales Representative Becoming a sales representative could be a good fit if you're looking to work from home but still want to interact with as many people as possible daily. Sales representatives are responsible for selling their company's products and services through outreach and pitching. Though responsibilities can vary depending on the position, overall, you can expect to research potential customers, send cold emails and follow up on promising leads, and converse with existing customers to keep them satisfied and potential customers to keep them interested. Typically only a high school degree is required for this position, so you don't need to worry about having a bachelor's degree. Sales representatives can be hired as either part or full-time employees. Skills needed to become a sales representative: Strong work ethic Strong written and verbal communication Persuasion and public speaking Red flags to watch out for in a potential employer: Requires you to pay upfront for a product or service you're going to sell Requires you to recruit other salespeople It only pays you a commission Average Salary:  $49,889 9. Transcriptionist If you have shaky hands, this work-from-home job is not for you. A transcriptionist role does not require you to have prior experience—all that's needed is for you to be a quick and accurate typer. The role of a transcriptionist is to turn audio media into text. Responsibilities of a transcriptionist include transcribing media such as podcasts, speeches and presentations, interviews, TV shows, movies, and more. Transcribing is typically considered a freelancing or part-time gig. Sites that are frequently used by transcriptionists to find work are  Rev ,  Upwork , and  Scribie . Otherwise, larger companies that deal with media are likely to hire transcriptionists to work on their ever-flowing media output. Average Pay :  Roughly $20 per hour  per job 10. Search Engine Evaluator If you're already scrolling the internet anyway, you might as well get paid for it, right? A search engine evaluator gets paid to analyze the results on search engines like Google or Naver. Their job is to ensure that the search engine results are accurate and relevant according to what they're searching. This feedback is then provided to the search engine provider so that they can make improvements. The only requirement for applying for this commonly at-home job opportunity is that you will be quizzed to see how familiar you are with the search engine you'll be analyzing. What is needed to become a search engine evaluator: Knowledge of technology and search engines Understanding of search engine optimization Quality written and verbal communication skills Average Salary:  $36,000 - $60,000 Hopefully, after reading this article you will be able to better evaluate what potential work from home opportunities are available and suitable for you. For more help finding the perfect industry job,  try Handshake now . Sources: https://www.themuse.com/advice/online-jobs-careers-no-experience https://novoresume.com/career-blog/work-from-home-no-experience-jobs https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/side-gigs/entry-level-work-from-home-jobs/

10 best work from home jobs requiring no experience

It's hard to imagine a career path with more possibilities for today's graduates than  education . Currently, there are thousands of  job openings in K-12 education  posted on Handshake, and that number isn't dwindling anytime soon; the demand for passionate, qualified educators is only growing! In fact, the UNESCO Institute for Statistics estimates that we'll need 69 million new teachers by 2030 to meet global education goals. But with so many career possibilities to consider, why are today's graduates choosing to teach? We sat down with 10 new or future educators who've used Handshake to find jobs in the field to hear exactly why they pursued this professional path—and their answers go so far beyond "I like kids." These honest, heartfelt perspectives might cause you to consider stepping into the classroom for your career, too. And if these educators' experiences are any indication, you won't regret it! Adding representation to the classroom “I'm Mexican and Filipino, and growing up, I never had a teacher who looked like me,” explains Jordan Fines, an 8th grade public school teacher in Stockton, CA. Recently, Jordan was reminded about the significance of her presence in the classroom when a student from another class approached her during recess to give her a high-five. “This kid I’d never even seen before ran up to me and said ‘I’m so happy that you’re here!’ I didn’t even have him in my class, but he was the only Filipino student on campus—he’d heard that there was a new Filipino teacher.  I was providing representation that I didn’t even realize was happening.  He’s not even my student, but being able to connect and see people who look like him as educators is important.” Jordan Fines Helping create safe spaces for students New York K-4 educator Joshua Redd, who was  hired by Uncommon Schools using Handshake , is committed to providing a similar beacon of hope for younger kids. “I’m from an area where we need more Black teachers and more teachers of color,” they explained of their decision to teach students earlier on in their educational journey. “I knew that I wanted to be in an area where I could see students that look like me and also students could have a teacher that looks like them–especially at a younger age.” Joshua knows that their energy and commitment to their students will have an impact that outlasts a single school year spent together. “​I want to be somebody who is able to nourish and curate the type of school I want for my scholars,” describes Joshua. “ I want them to feel safe and I want them to feel affirmed.  I want them to feel loved when they come to school.” Promoting cultural understanding Jasmeen Kaur, an education student who is originally from India, is excited about the way her presence in the halls of the Indianapolis, IN public school system could potentially influence the mindsets of young learners for the rest of their lives. “I hope that they remember me after they graduate and even after they have their own kids. If you have a positive and loving experience with a teacher, you often remember them,” Jasmeen shared with Handshake about her goals for her elementary school special ed class, which she's currently student-teaching as she completes her studies. “ I hope they learn about my culture  as well, and that I can create a diverse environment in the class which leads to positivity and kindness in my students.” Helping kids feel heard and understood Margo Tiffany, an elementary education major at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, loves working with kids so much that she’s encouraged several friends to join her at the YMCA where she currently works. “I think it could be really great to someday work with kids who are learning English as a second language,” said Margo, who opted to add a Spanish minor to enable her to communicate with a broader range of students. “It's definitely been my biggest challenge in college; I have a friend who's a Spanish speaker and I've had to set up little tutoring sessions with them, because I want to make sure that I know what I'm doing. There's just  so many students who speak two languages at home . I just think it'll be really cool to have that experience with them.” Margo is currently doing clinical work in the classroom while finishing her studies. Seeing the kids in her classroom has made Margo even more passionate about students having a teacher who can communicate with them in the way that they're most comfortable, in order to provide emotional security and a safe space where they feel like they can learn in their best environment. Margo Tiffany Creating a source of stability “I grew up in a military home, so I spent most of my childhood moving between different states and schools,” says Rachel Johnson, whose time at the University of Northern Iowa marked her 11th school. “Through my experiences in many school districts and systems (homeschool, charter school, and public school), I developed a deep passion for healthy and supportive education and the significance of it in a child's life.” Rachel has  used Handshake to find several education jobs  aligned with her passion, including full-time offers. “I hope to ignite hope and  be a light to children who may never know health and stability in any other way , but can always count on it in my classroom.” Fixing broken parts of the system Legend Todrick, an Elementary Education major at the University of Northern Colorado, knew early that she wanted to specialize in special education. “I was motivated to become an educator after seeing my loved ones face challenges as an effect of  the inequities in education that divide children with specialities/disabilities from their peers . As an educator I want to lessen these impacts in my classroom by bringing my knowledge to best serve every student I may encounter,” she shared, adding that she also had personal experiences navigating these challenges in school. “I'm dyslexic, and I ended up switching schools a lot because I had teachers who refused to file my IEP (Individualized Education Program) and were just like, ‘No, she's fine. She can do without.’ Eventually, my parents just kind of gave up fighting. By the time I was in middle school, I had to figure out how to adapt on my own with no educational support at all.” Throughout her college years, Legend has found ways to build professional experiences that'll better prepare her to become the compassionate educator her future students deserve. She’s worked as a preschool teacher, a registered behavior technician for children with disabilities, and even worked in an overnight outdoor education camp. “I have learned so much about different disabilities and behaviors I may encounter in a classroom,” says Legend, “as well as the motivation behind them and how to understand this different form of communication that many children engage in.” Embracing personal growth “I had these two competing job offers,” describes Emma Clark, who recently graduated from UC Berkeley with degrees in cognitive science and data science. Emma found herself weighing the pros and cons between an offer from a public policy firm in Washington, D.C. and an opportunity with Teach For America, which places participants in two-year teaching commitments in low-income communities around the country. “Ultimately, I was like:  what am I gonna regret not trying?  This is something I feel passionately that I could be really good at, and I could feel like I am making a difference,” says Emma of the conundrum she faced during her final year of college. “I can push myself out of my comfort zone and grow in a lot of ways that I didn’t grow in school. That’s when I knew that teaching was the job I was going to go into.” Now, Emma teaches special education at a public charter school in Denver, CO while simultaneously earning a masters degree, and knows that the job has profoundly impacted her. “There's not a single day of work that I've had so far when I didn't feel like I left my job like a little bit of a better person than I was when I started the day—and that, I think, is really special.” Emma Clark Banishing feelings of fear for students “I hope to be a teacher that is empathetic, honest, and enjoyable. School can be a place of learning and happiness,” says Ella Carter, who decided to change her major to education from pre-med after using Handshake to find a job working with middle school students in Lincoln, NE. “ School doesn't have to be a dreaded place that feels like a prison ; it can be more enjoyable than that.” Finding a career path through which she could connect with young learners and positively impact their development made everything click into place for Ella: “When I'm with the kids and working it’s like, wow, this is exactly what I've been waiting to do and it's exactly what I hoped it would be.” Helping kids fall in love with a new subject “I started working at the YMCA doing childcare,” says Samantha Kim, a University of Washington student currently doing her student-teaching internship in a fourth grade classroom in Spokane, WA. “I didn't think it would turn into my potential career path, but I decided when I started college that I would major in education because I liked working with the kids.” While in school, Samantha gravitated toward math—when she realized she could specialize in the subject and eventually help kids learn to love the subject too, she knew that was the career she wanted to build for herself. After completing her studies, Samantha plans to specialize in math education for kids around the fourth grade age group. Most of all, inspiring a love of learning in a new generation “Education is important to me, especially ELL education, because all students deserve the right to learn and succeed in school alongside their peers,” says Rachel Duray, a K-6 ELL (English language learner) teacher in Iowa City, IO who works with a broad range of students who need additional support in class, including children with special needs, refugees, and immigrants. “I strive to create an equitable space in my school where students feel excited and safe. I am a teacher because I love working with children and watching them grow in their learning.” “I can honestly say that  not a day goes by when I regret my decision to become a teacher . Sure, there can be tough days, but when I can see that a child is engaged and interested in what we are learning, it really makes all the difference,” encourages Rachel. “Find those opportunities through Handshake and other campus resources to get into those schools. You will find incredible students and staff!” Discover your own education career Whether you're interested in teaching or just want to see what's out there in the field of K-12 education, be sure to explore our  list of school systems that are hiring on Handshake today . You can filter through thousands of open jobs, from nursing or coaching to teaching and administration, by filtering for location, job title, or specific search term. And if you want even more insights into this career path, be sure to  watch our Handshake Class Act session  to hear teachers and administrators get real about the job. Photo by  MChe Lee  on  Unsplash

Why these Gen Z educators chose teaching careers

If you’re a software engineer, you have to get a job in big tech… right? Actually, your software skills can take you to a huge range of roles and industries! We spoke to panelists from General Motors, Charles Schwab and Discover to see what it’s like to work at these companies and what opportunities they offer for software engineers. You can watch the recording of the session below, or scroll down to read their best takeaways. Grace Brackman  graduated last year from Purdue with a degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Machine Learning and now works as an Associate Application Developer at  Discover . Deanna Benson  is a Campus Talent Advisor at  Charles Schwab . Dan Deschamps  is the Sr. Manager of Software Development, Digital EV Commerce at  General Motors . Moderator: Imaad Uddin , Software Engineer at UT Austin and  Content Creator Tell us about the engineering jobs you have at your company. Dan: GM is pivoting to be a platform innovator, rather than just a car manufacturer. We’ve hired over 9000 college grads over the last 5 years to help this strategy. GM has 50 different digital businesses, including Cruise and BrightDrop. There’s a lot of code that goes into these autonomous vehicles. We also hire for core IT roles to maintain our systems. Currently we have around 15,000 software engineers across the company. You can also  join GM in a rotational program  to get a chance to work on multiple teams and develop your skills. Deanna: I primarily recruit grads for  Charles Schwab’s NERD program , which is a 9-month software engineering onboarding and training program. We’re big on growth and development here, so there’s time to work on both your technical and soft skills. I also help hire for our  internship program . Grace: I am working as a front end developer to help the Discover network get accepted in as many places as possible. But there are a ton of roles for software engineers here, including in app development, AI, security, and back-end work. Daniel, what made you choose GM? Daniel: First, I want to say, if you're majoring in computer science, congratulations, you can work anywhere! Almost every major company has an IT division, so you can pick almost any company you want to work for. I started my career in banking and finance, working at the help desk and resetting passwords, and worked my way up to doing application development and integration. 8 years ago, I found out about GM. A new GM building went up near me that said “IT Innovation Center”. I could have picked another company, but their transformative vision around electric vehicles, zero emissions, autonomous vehicles really spoke to me. Grace, how did your experience differ from peers that went on to work in big tech? Grace: I think my experience is more similar than it is different. I’m getting the same technical experience, I attend the same conferences and hackathons, and have the same drive for technical advancement. At the end of the day, the work I do is still technical work—I’m not the one to ask for financial advice! Deanna, what are some overlooked pros to jobs outside big tech? Deanna: It’s important to  consider the culture of the place where you want to work . At Charles Schwab, we tend to demonstrate a lot of trust in employees. We are big on learning, growing, developing, giving opportunities, and eventually leading. I would say it’s a more intimate culture that fosters empowerment and growth, with a team mindset. What skills and tech stack do you use on a daily basis? Grace: I use React typescript and some CSS and HTML since I'm a front end developer. We use Jest and Cypress as our testing libraries. We also use GitHub. Your tech stack will depend a lot on what team you’re working on. I didn't know anything about the front end when I came into the role! Discover really gave me the time to learn these skills through courses and mentors. Daniel: Similar to Grace’s experience, at GM, your tech stack will vary by team. There’s also a lot of room to grow and move between software engineering roles, if you’re interested in gaining new skills. What stands out to you in a candidate? Daniel: Seeing your school, major, and GPA gives me a good sense of what you already learned through coursework. I think I know every capstone project that’s ever been done. So instead we focus on, who are you as a person?  We have core behaviors that we look for: that you’re collaborative, that you’re self motivated and bold, and that you’re an innovator.  We look for candidates that enjoy the fact that technology is changing so rapidly. So I won’t ask gotcha tech questions. I’ll ask  behavioral questions  like, “Tell me about a time you had to get started on a project and didn’t know what to do,” and I’m listening to how you took initiative.  Make sure your answers and stories are relevant to the role you’re interviewing for. Deanna: It helps to clearly list programming languages and other software skills on your resume. Also list your projects, applications, and certifications. It may not seem big to you, but that’s the thing that may make you stand out. We also use behavioral interviewing, specifically the  STAR method . We want to see how you solve problems. Practice for your interviews ahead of time! Photo courtesy of This is Engineering via Pexels

Where to find software engineering roles beyond tech

Interviewing for a role you want can feel intimidating. However, preparing in advance will help the process go more smoothly and make you more comfortable. While no two interviews are the same, there are some common interview questions that you can expect. Here are seven common questions and tips for being ready to answer them. 1. Tell me about yourself. Interviews are about employers getting to know you, so talking about yourself is something you’ll need to get used to. When preparing for this question, think of reasons why you’re a good fit for the job and the employer. But don’t talk about what’s already on your resume. The interviewer has seen your qualifications—that’s why they’ve brought you in for the interview. Instead, start by talking a bit about your background and why you’ve chosen this career path. You can also share something you’re passionate about, like an extracurricular activity, hobby, or organization that you volunteer with. Finish your answer by mentioning some of your career goals. 2. How did you hear about this job? This question gives you a chance to show the interviewer that you’re interested in the company and excited about the job. If you found out about the job at a  virtual career fair  session, through your career center, or an alum at the company, be sure to mention this. Or share how you  follow them on Handshake  to get new job alerts, or check their company website every week. What you don’t want to say is, “I sent in a ton of applications and you’re one of the companies that called me for an interview. ” Even if this is true, share what specifically caught your eye about this role that made you want to apply. 3. Why do you want to work here? A big part of preparing for your interview is doing research on the company. Even if you know a lot about them, take time to read through their Handshake page, their website, and search for recent articles or press releases. Think about what appeals to you most about the employer, and point out anything you discovered about them that impressed you. Is it their commitment to giving back to the community? Their learning and development opportunities for employees? Mentioning something that may not be common knowledge will show that you’ve done your homework and have genuine interest in them. 4. Why do you want this role? Similarly to questions 2 and 3, this question is best answered using specific reasons, not a general statement. Employers are looking for a candidate that is enthusiastic about the role and the company. For example, “I’m graduating in May and I need a job” is not the answer you want to give, even though it may be true. Share what excited you most about this role. It could be working for a company and team you admire or the impact you’ll be able to make. 5. How do you deal with challenges? Employers ask this question to learn how you tackle problems and solve them. Share your process for taking on challenges at school or work, such as breaking down a big project into manageable steps and creating a daily to-do list. You also may be asked to describe a time that something didn’t go as planned, and how you dealt with it. Think of a story before the interview that demonstrates how you successfully handled a difficult situation. Describe what happened and the steps you took to overcome it. Even better if you can share what you’ve learned from this experience and how it helped you grow. 6. Why should we hire you? This may sound like a tricky question, but again, preparing for it will help you answer well. First, be sure to go back and review the job description. Like you did when you were writing  your cover letter,  pay attention to the role’s requirements, as well as the skills and qualifications listed for candidates. Think about how you match those qualifications and how your experiences can set you apart from the other candidates. Then use this question as an opportunity to discuss anything that you haven’t been able to point out yet. Is there something you really want to highlight or reiterate about your qualifications? If you are going to talk about something new, make sure it illustrates why you’d be a valuable addition to the team. On the other hand, this also can be a chance for you to address a previous question that you don’t think you answered as well as you could have. If you’re saying to yourself “I can’t leave without the employer knowing this about me,” now is the time to share it. 7. Do you have any questions for me? The answer should always be yes! Preparing a few questions for your interview demonstrates your interest in the role and the employer. It’s also a great opportunity to learn details that will help you decide if the company is a good fit for you. Learn more about preparing questions, and  find some examples here . Want to practice your answers?  Contact your school's career center and see if you can schedule a mock interview.

What you need to know to answer 7 common interview questions

The first woman to fly across the Atlantic, Amelia Earhart, and the first woman VP of the US, Kamala Harris, are pioneers in their industries and have inspired future generations of women to succeed. This includes people like Sarah Thomas, the first-ever full-time female official in NFL history. We were lucky enough to sit down with Sarah for our Ask Me Anything event to learn more about her journey from childhood to career. Sarah’s unique story is an inspiring and timely reminder that remarkable leaders have often veered away from traditional career paths. In reflection of Handshake’s mission of democratizing access to jobs for students, regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic status, we were excited to learn how Sarah is leveling the playing field for young women wanting to pursue a career in the NFL. Who is Sarah Thomas? Sarah Thomas  is a woman of firsts. She is the first full-time female official to be hired by the NFL, and the first woman to officiate a/an: NFL playoff game (2019 Patriots vs. Chargers) Major college football game (2007 Memphis vs. Jacksonville State) College bowl game (2009 Little Caesars Pizza Bowl game between Marshall and Ohio University) Super Bowl game (2021 Super Bowl LV) Sarah Thomas is the first full-time official to be hired by the NFL. Thomas began her journey to the NFL not because she had always dreamed of officiating, but because she couldn’t imagine life without sports. Sarah’s parents and brothers were athletes, so sports had always been central to her life. She lettered five times in softball in high school and received a basketball scholarship to the University of Mobile. After graduating, she joined a men’s basketball league to continue her passion for sports. Sarah played pick-up games with her brothers growing up, so being the only girl on the court was nothing new. However, she was voted out of the men’s league after three years for precisely this reason. Men were uncomfortable playing with her. Their discomfort wasn’t going to stop Thomas from participating in sports one way or another. Her brother told her about an aspiring football officials meeting and she tagged along. When she walked into the meeting, she was unaware that women had never officiated or that this wasn’t “their job.” But everyone was honest with her about expectations and it was this openness that changed Thomas’ life forever. She knew she  had  to be a part of it. As for breaking barriers, well, that began at a young age. When she was in fifth grade, Thomas’ aunt asked her if she was going to play basketball, but Thomas explained that there wasn’t a girl’s team. Her aunt responded with, “Go out for the boy's team,” so she did.  This began her trailblazing journey. From ' you’ve never played football? ' to making NFL history Despite being the first full-time female official in the NFL, Sarah Thomas has yet to play a game of football. But she didn’t let that stop her from making history along the way. As a female athlete, Sarah was used to women’s sports where women refs were quite common. She didn’t realize how unusual it was for a woman to break into the world of male sports as an official, which could be why she so fearlessly pursued her passion. Sarah started with grade school football before progressing to high school games. Thomas worked hard and earned a reputation as being one of the best. After officiating a high school state championship game, she grabbed the attention of Gerry Austin, a now-retired NFL ref who officiated for nearly 30 years. He hired her onto the Conference USA staff. That was the beginning of Thomas’ impressive roster of “firsts.” Thomas went on to officiate a major college game before earning a full college game schedule (11 games). Her “Be a learn it all, not a know it all” attitude allowed Sarah to hone her skills and land the 2009 Little Caesars Pizza Bowl crew assignment. With a growing list of achievements, Thomas was hired to the United Football League as part of the crew for the 2010 Championship Game. Sean Payton, head coach for the New Orleans Saints, endorsed Thomas for the NFL appointment in 2015 after she officiated their training camp practices and the pro game. He told ESPN that “She’s gonna do well. We’ve watched her grow, and she’s gonna be outstanding. She’s got the right demeanor; she’s sharp.” Shortly after, she made history yet again as the first full-time female official in the NFL and just a few years later, she officiated Super Bowl LV. Sarah Thomas’ hard-hitting impact Sarah’ story has inspired women everywhere and given aspiring professionals the hope that we can make our dreams a reality someday, but she has done so much more than that too. Sarah opened doors for other women like Katie Sowers and Jennifer King (both female leaders who work(ed) in the NFL), and she has fundamentally changed the NFL. In 2017, Thomas was promoted from line judge to down judge . Previously known as “head linesman,” down judge was a term the NFL initiated after Sarah joined the NFL to be more gender-neutral. The NFL wanted Thomas to know that they acknowledge her and encourage more women to join as officials. Like Handshake, Thomas has gone on her journey in hopes that other women (and underrepresented groups) can get into careers they truly love. She wants female officials in  every  sport, but for now, she’s happy the NFL just hired another female official. Sarah Thomas is the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl game. What Sarah wants you to know Looking outside of her fame as the first full-time female official in the NFL, Thomas reflected on her journey and gave leaders and job-seekers alike some great advice. First and foremost, do what you truly love. And do it because you love it, not because you’re trying to live up to someone’s expectations or because you’re seeking recognition—just do it because you love it. Sarah told us to stop comparing our journey to others. This can be hard, but she summed up the perfect reason to: “Comparison is the thief of all joy.” Whether you’re breaking barriers or landing your dream job in an industry already suited to you, don’t compare yourself to what other people are doing. Prove to  yourself  that you belong there and that you can do the job. “A leader has the people. A boss has a title,” which is why it’s crucial that leadership is hands-on from the beginning. Upper management can sponsor ERGs and spearhead diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts to show new hires that they truly value diversity and people from all backgrounds. Thomas encourages managers to be leaders, not bosses. For future generations It’s hard not to be moved by Thomas’ journey to the NFL. She is a pioneer who started out not wanting to give up sports to become the first-ever full-time female official in the NFL. She has been a catalyst for change in the league, and it all began because she didn’t let society’s expectations hold her back. Sarah Thomas has leveled the playing field for women hoping to officiate in the NFL, but more broadly for anyone who enters into a career that doesn’t have a lot of people who look or sound like them. If Thomas has taught us anything, it’s that you can’t let a lack of diversity discourage you from dreaming.

What we learned from the first full-time woman ref on the NFL field

Your first day of a new job or internship is an exciting time—but it can also be intimidating. You probably have a lot of questions, including "What should I wear?" Most offices follow one of three dress codes: casual, business casual, or business professional. Before you start, be sure to ask human resources (HR) about the dress code. Then, learn tips for what to wear for each of the dress codes below. Casual/No dress code: Business casual: Business professional: Be sure to follow us on Instagram  @joinhandshake  for more tips and advice! Photo by  Ono Kosuki  from  Pexels

What to Wear on Your First Day of Work, by Dress Code

Internships will vary based on your major, skills, and your personal career goals. A computer science major’s internship will look fairly different than someone studying creative writing. However, students have made it clear that there are certain qualities in internships that they need, no matter the role. Supportive mentorship and peers More than half of students find that mentorship is highly important when having an internship. To build a bigger network and to advance in your career, you’ll need industry professionals to help you learn and to vouch for you when the time for a reference comes. Students value the relationships that they make outside of class and in the working world. Whether it be a manager or another employee, having that solid point of contact can aid in building a lasting career foundation. Students want someone on their side who will show them the ropes and encourage them to succeed. Access to company resources Many students noted that having resources like training programs or workshops to build additional skills was something they valued in an internship. Not only can it help boost their confidence, but students can learn skills applicable to their internship and explore different avenues of their career paths. Compensation A majority of students are looking for fair compensation at their internships. Many students have financial needs to take care of and other obligations that take up their time. Internships can be as time consuming as real jobs and many students are looking for internships that offer more than college credit. A salary or fair compensation is very important to internships today. Opportunity to showcase work After students spend a semester or a year putting in work at their internship, many of them want a chance to showcase their work. Holding a space for students to present and be proud of their work can foster a sense of leadership and accountability. It’s also a great way for them to show their company the impact that they’ve had and why they would be a great addition to the team. Job security And one of the most important factors that students think about when searching for an internship is whether or not their role could turn into a job. Job security and career growth is extremely important for students, especially those on the verge of graduation. It not only gives them stability, but allows them to develop in their roles and ultimately in their careers.

What students want out of internships

A bachelor’s degree has become somewhat of a precious commodity. For some, it’s a stepping stone on the way to lofty career goals or aspirations in graduate and professional programs. For most, it’s a ticket to their first major career milestone. And great news: many students are reaping the benefits of their academic success to find their way into their first jobs! College graduates ages 25 to 34 boast an employment rate of 86%,  based on a 2017 study  by the National Center for Education Statistics. Add to that the fact that unemployment rates are at their  lowest since 1969 , and you can see how the current climate is ideal for earning a bachelor’s degree. Recruitment has also become easier and more effective. With the introduction of online career services sites, employers are finding their top talents faster than ever. Take into consideration programs like Handshake, which connect students exclusively with potential employers,  internships , and mentors, and students are never short of  opportunities after graduation . A quick search at this moment reveals that there are hundreds of thousands of full-time job opportunities available — many available exclusively to students — on Handshake. If you’re curious about how a degree can contribute financially,  Payscale.com reports  that the average job pays $18 per hour with a bachelor’s degree. That’s an estimated salary of just over $37,000. If you negotiate well, you can expect an entry level job to pay similarly. So, is a bachelor’s degree really what it’s cut out to be? We think so, and  so do 90% of employers . With timely prep and a solid strategy, a bachelor’s degree is one of the most effective steps to becoming a competitive prospect in your field.

What Percent of College Students Get Jobs After Graduation? The Numbers Look Good!

So, you’ve registered for a virtual recruiting event! You’ve got your  talking points  all planned out,  done your research  on the employers you’ll meet, and given your roommates the “I need you to be quiet for a few hours” talk. But are there any day-of dealbreakers? Here are a few "don't"s for any virtual recruiting event. Just follow these simple rules: Don't wait to sign up for sessions.  Learn  how to sign up  here! Try to snag some great spots in advance to get face time with your favorite employers. Don’t bail on employers.  Try to avoid missing your sessions or canceling at the last minute. If an emergency comes up, contact your school's career center to see if they can help relay the last minute scheduling change to any employers you'll miss! Don’t forget to follow up.  Shoot  a thoughtful thank-you note  to any employers you meet after the career fair! Watch the video below for more on what  not  to do at a virtual career fair. Photo by  MayoFi  on  Unsplash

What Not to Do at Virtual Events

Webster and Google provide some great technical definitions. See also LinkedIn, Forbes, and every other content space that focuses on business and career. However, my definition looks a little different. I teach my students that it is important to deconstruct the world around you, especially for minority populations that are often excluded from the creation and definitions of language. For me, company culture is the environment created by people in a company, business, institution, or organization that helps or hinders productivity and learning. Company structure, on the other hand, details the legal operation of a company or organization. While culture and structure seem like drastically different aspects of career, they are not mutually exclusive. A terrible company culture can render a structure useless. Likewise, a company that is poorly structured can make it very difficult to establish a healthy company culture. Your goal is to find a company that speaks to both aspects. Below are several tips to gaining insight into a company’s culture and structure. Culture You’ve heard that employers will visit your social media (not just LinkedIn). You can visit your potential employers' social media as well! The job descriptions or the interview will show you your direct reports or potential coworkers. Read the mission, vision, and purpose/values of the company. If you prefer a company that also supports a cause of which you are passionate, those are places to find that information. Check the reviews! There is a bit of a learning curve when reading reviews, but you can often get a great sense of the company, good or bad, just by those reviews. Also, look for the employer’s responses to negative feedback. Structure Search for an organizational chart of the company to get an idea of the flow of information. You would be surprised at how complicated they can be. See if the company has a foundation or nonprofit “arm”. Some of the larger companies have a separate entity that is designed to support social causes. Read the job description. A good job description includes more than job duties. It can include direct reports and other details about the company. A mix of the two Culture & Structure: Interviews are great places to find out about the company culture and structure. After you’ve researched the company, you can ask the question directly, “how would you describe your company culture?” It is important to remember that the job to which we apply, the company for whom we work, and the people with whom we work are not going to be perfect. There will be times where a colleague that you typically work well with is getting on your nerves. There will be miscommunication or added work that can make the experience more frustrating. That’s ok. Your focus is to bring your best self to any environment and when you can’t, be honest and put in the work to learn, heal, recover, and try again. Check out more tips from career center professionals in our on-going series,  Career Center Confidential .

Career Center Confidential: What is company culture?

A lot of things might feel uncertain right now—especially if your career plans have been impacted by current events. If your internship has been canceled or put on hold, we're sorry for the disappointment you're feeling. We want to provide you with some  tangible solutions  for making the most of this time. Ahead, discover ways to push your career path forward during the coming months. And check out our lists of great  employers hiring college students and new grads . Use your time deliberately Even though your internship plans changed, that doesn’t mean that you should miss out on building professional experience! When you’re sitting down for your next interview, how can you turn these months into a positive talking point? Everyone has different career goals and projects that will help with their resumes. Here are a few project suggestions that might spark an idea that helps you come out of this stronger: Create a personal website or digital portfolio for your work using an intuitive tool like Squarespace, Wordpress, or Wix Read up on topics you want to master or understand better, especially while some  educational content  is now free to access Fill out  your Handshake profile  with achievements, courses, and extracurriculars, all of which could lead to recruiters reaching out to you Stay open to new opportunities Just because one opportunity might be put on hold, that doesn't mean you won't find another  last-minute internship ! Stay up to speed on  employers that are actively hiring students like you  and consider ways to stand out to recruiters. That might mean  attending their virtual events ,  responding thoughtfully to messages , or simply  asking the right questions . Attend virtual information sessions While many school campuses are closed for the rest of the term, behind the scenes there are still career counselors ready to share  expert advice with college students  and alums. To remedy the lack of face-to-face communication, try attending a virtual information session or arranging a video appointment with your school's career services office. During these types of calls, you can come prepared with questions for your advisor and receive advice for the job search, get feedback on your resume or Handshake profile, and more. Network with peers and role models We are lucky to live in an age where people can connect with a simple click or two. No matter what's happening in the world, we aren’t alone, and we can build each other up. Try starting with your close circle and see if any of your friends have career advice, or want to collaborate on a skill-building project with you. Self-starting never depreciates in value. Aside from your personal circle, there are plenty of other eager people who want to help you on your professional journey. You can  use Handshake to get in touch  with student peers and alumni from your school; connect with them and inquire about what their day-to-day looks like right now. Email professors offer your remote help with any interesting projects they’re working on. Even consider reaching out to recruiters and industry professionals for any advice that they might have right now. Take care of yourself While the advice above can help during your career journey, it’s important—maybe more than ever—to check in with yourself. Check out  this list of free resources and services  that might be able to help during this time, and remember to take breaks. Not every moment spent at home needs to be productive! It's OK to watch Netflix, FaceTime with loved ones, play your music loud, and shake everything out when you need it. Your internship might've been put on hold, but your life has not. The future is bright, and we can't wait to help you find your next opportunity.

My internship got canceled... now what?

In order to understand and contribute thoughtful insight during this disorienting time in the job market, Handshake has utilized its position as a three-sided business (students, employers, and universities) to provide helpful nuggets of information to students still searching for jobs. 66% of students  surveyed  want to know who is still hiring and taking applications. Many popular companies that are still looking for early talent are listed on Handshake’s  list of 500 potential employers . We update this list regularly, so there are always “newly added” options for you to check out with every refresh. In addition to this ongoing list, there’s been a 257% increase in employers directly messaging students like you. Pro-tip: 80% of students who fill out  three simple profile fields  will get messaged! A few other helpful tricks for getting contacted by recruiters: Continuously update  your Handshake profile Check out Handshake regularly to see the newest listings Interact with recruiters thoughtfully  through messaging For the 73% of college seniors who are still in search of a full-time job, a shift in strategy and outlook is a positive start. And the responsibility of finding resources and networking should not solely rest on your shoulders. As students already stressed about classes, graduation, and living situations, the friendly crutch of a career center should also be considered. 99% of students reported that they wanted their  university’s career services  to help aid them during this time. It’s not easy being away from campus where things are centralized for your convenience. Some  questions to ask your career center  (as suggested by students): Can I schedule a virtual career advising session with you? Can you tell me what employers are still hiring at my school? Can you provide me with feedback on my Handshake profile/resume? Will there be any virtual career fairs that I can engage with employers at? In addition to asking for help from your university, you can also  seek advice from fellow students and alumni  using Handshake’s reviews and peer messaging features. The shift to a digital presence is key in networking and applying to jobs now. Everything now takes place online, and your fellow students are making moves! 51% of students have already made plans to update their online profiles, and 41% plan to network online soon. And while you learn to navigate these new waters, so are the employers that want great students like you. To make valuable connections with candidates, many companies are shifting their focus to digital. 89% of employers are adopting or increasing their virtual interviews–hopeful that you’ll apply. Handshake continuously sees growth in students receiving messages from employers. In March, we saw  over one million messages sent to students like you in a single week . This number shows steady growth week by week, proving the worth of an engaged student Handshake profile. Many employers target specific details on your profile, so it’s key to spend some time filling yours out to the max. After considering the stats and information listed here, you can begin the launch into your virtual career!  Jobs and internships are still out there , and students are still being recruited. This landscape was unexpected, but it is still working. As we collect more data about the job marketplace, this article will be updated.

What COVID-19 Recruitment Trends Mean for Students

Choosing a career is definitely a big decision, and it may seem like you don't know where to start. But the good news is, you don't have to figure it out on your own. Your school's  career center  staff have the tools and knowledge that will help you narrow down which roles are right for you. So, your first step is to make an appointment with the career center. In the meantime, here are a few questions to get you started. What motivates me? While your job is a source of income, think of this beyond salary and benefits. Think about what you'd like the outcome to be of what you do each day. Focus on what you do based on "intrinsic motivation"— that is, because you enjoy it and find interesting, rather than because of an external incentive or pressure. Start by making a list of the these things that can give your career meaning and satisfaction. What makes me happy? Picture the type of workplace that would make you happy. Do you thrive on tight deadlines or would you rather a flexible schedule? Do you want to work in an office or as part of a team? What industry are you considering? Also think about which types of roles will hold your interest and keep you happy day-to-day. Are you comfortable pursuing a career that requires you to use data and numbers daily? Or do you thrive in a more creative setting? What are my strengths? List out the skills that have really stood out during your time in the classroom, and at previous jobs or extracurriculars. When you were choosing your major, you probably thought about your skills and strengths as well. Did you choose accounting because you like math and are detail-oriented? Or maybe art history was calling you because it perfectly blends your creativity and critical thinking. Think about why you may have chosen your field of study and how it lets you use your biggest strengths. What roles will help me get started? From paid internships to entry level full time jobs, you'll find a lot of opportunities that are right for you on Handshake. Make sure to  add the job roles  that interest you on your profile. That way, you get the latest job and internship recommendations and can see what your options are. Finally, remember that careers aren't always linear. You may try one role or industry and in a few years decide you want to make a change. It happens all the time! 


Which careers are right for me? 4 questions that will help you decide

Does the question “What are you doing after graduation?” fill you with dread and send you into a cold sweat? You’re not alone — many students lack a clear, solid plan for their life post-college, and the associated anxiety can cause struggles in important academic tasks like completing a dissertation or completing a heavily weighted exam.  Elizabeth Mann Levesque calls this phenomenon  a motivation barrier: a “difficulty for students to identify connections between their coursework and their own lives and future goals.” Because academia focuses so much on, well, academia, bridging the college-career gap yourself can be difficult. However, your chances of having a plan before you graduate increase significantly when you invest your free time wisely. Create Your Handshake Account If your university has a career services center , it’s likely that you’ve heard of Handshake. Handshake is your window to the professional world outside of your institution with ample employment, internship, and career opportunities. Even if you’re not sure where you’re headed after college, it has the features you need to discover all kinds of opportunities based on your major. Join a School Organization Find a club that resonates with your career goals. Classes won’t often offer opportunities to network and build leadership skills like an organization can. Can’t find one you like? Start your own! Participating in an organization is also an excellent resume booster to help your application stand out amongst hundreds of others. Find Shadowing and Internship Opportunities It’ll come as no surprise that internships can increase your chances of finding a post-college entry level job that  pays well .  According to  U.S. News , “65.4 percent of the class of 2014 who had completed a paid internship at a for-profit company received a job offer prior to graduation.” That’s a massive jump from 38.6 percent of students who received offers without internship experience. Shadowing opportunities in your field of interest can also help you become familiar with the workplace to make ensure it encompasses the professional life you’re looking for. While a career is an ever-evolving journey, it’s nice to know early in the process that you’re pursuing a career path that’s compatible with your lifestyle and goals. Now that you’re all set up on Handshake, you’ll be pleased to find out that these opportunities exist on the platform. For more inspiration, check out  how college students are finding their internships  with the help of Handshake and their  Career Services centers . Consider Graduate School Start thinking about whether pursuing a master’s or terminal degree is the right path for you. It’s a double-edged sword that can lead to higher wages (master’s degree holders  have a $12,000 higher salary , on average) and competitiveness in the market, but can also lead to serious student loan debt. Have the conversation with an academic advisor and/or  career advisor  early! Planning for graduate school is a divergent path that requires extensive preparedness. So, take a deep breath. Following these simple steps now will increase your chances of laying out a solid future for yourself. You might even have a job lined up before you toss your cap into the air on graduation day; we promise you that  things are looking good !

What are you doing after college? How to plan for life after graduation

There are more than 500,000 employers hiring students on Handshake. From notable brand names to incredible organizations in your backyard, you can find the right employer for you. There are three main reasons to follow the employers you like on Handshake: You’ll receive notifications when they post new jobs and events, or are attending a virtual career fair at your school. Your job recommendations will improve and become even more relevant as you follow more employers. When an employer views your profile, they can see that you follow them. Showing mutual interest in their organization could help you receive a message or virtual event invitation. To follow an employer,  click the Follow button  at the top of their page or preview card.

Fuel Your Job Search: Follow Employers

When it comes to job interviews, one question that often makes candidates nervous is "What is your greatest weakness?" This is a tricky question because you don't want to reveal a weakness that would disqualify you from the position, but you also don't want to come across as arrogant or lacking self-awareness by saying you don't have any weaknesses. To help you prepare for this question, we've compiled a list of the top 12 example weaknesses for a job interview, along with tips on how to frame your answer in a way that emphasizes your strengths and potential for growth. 1. Perfectionism While striving for perfection can be admirable, it can also lead to excessive stress and anxiety. Frame this weakness as a desire for excellence, but one that you are learning to balance with practicality and time management skills. Emphasize your ability to prioritize tasks and set realistic goals, while also acknowledging the importance of quality work. 2. Procrastination Procrastination can be a common challenge, but it can also lead to missed opportunities and deadlines. Explain that you recognize the importance of time management and have implemented specific strategies, such as setting deadlines, creating to-do lists, and breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable parts. Highlight any successes you have had in managing your time effectively. 3. Public speaking While public speaking can be daunting, it's often an essential skill in the workplace. Highlight any training or practice you have undergone to improve your public speaking abilities, such as attending workshops, practicing with colleagues, or participating in public speaking events. Emphasize your willingness to continue learning and growing in this area. 4. Delegating tasks Delegating tasks can be challenging, but it's an essential skill for effective teamwork. Explain that you understand the value of collaboration and have taken steps to build trust with your colleagues. Highlight any successes you have had in delegating tasks and emphasize your commitment to learning to delegate effectively. 5. Attention to detail Attention to detail is crucial, but it can sometimes lead to perfectionism and missed deadlines. Emphasize that you understand the importance of balancing quality with efficiency and have implemented strategies to help you manage your workload effectively. Highlight any successes you have had in maintaining attention to detail while also meeting deadlines. 6. Difficulty with confrontation Confrontation can be uncomfortable, but it's sometimes necessary for effective communication and conflict resolution. Frame this weakness as a desire to maintain positive relationships, but one that you are working to overcome by building your confidence and communication skills. Highlight any training or experience you have undergone to improve your communication skills. 7. Overthinking Overthinking can lead to indecisiveness and missed opportunities. Explain that you recognize the importance of timely decision-making and have implemented strategies to help you weigh the pros and cons of a situation effectively without getting stuck in indecision. Emphasize your ability to balance careful consideration with practicality. 8. Multitasking While multitasking can be seen as a valuable skill, research has shown that it can be less efficient than focusing on one task at a time. Emphasize that you recognize the importance of prioritizing tasks and have taken steps to build your time management skills. Highlight any successes you have had in managing your workload effectively. 9. Impatience Impatience can be frustrating for both yourself and your colleagues. Explain that you recognize the importance of staying calm and patient, and have implemented strategies to help you manage your emotions and stay focused on the task at hand. Highlight any successes you have had in remaining patient and focused. 10. Communication Effective communication is essential in the workplace, but it's not always easy. Frame this weakness as a desire to improve your communication skills, and highlight any steps you have taken to improve, such as attending workshops or practicing with colleagues. Emphasize your willingness to listen and learn from feedback. 11. Organization Disorganization can lead to missed deadlines and lost documents. Emphasize that you recognize the importance of staying organized and have implemented specific strategies, such as using to-do lists or organizing your workspace. Highlight any successes you have had in staying organized and meeting deadlines. 12. Time management Effective time management is a crucial skill that can help maximize productivity and minimize stress. Acknowledge that time management can be challenging and frame this weakness as a desire to improve your skills in this area. Highlight any specific steps you have taken to improve, such as using time-tracking apps, creating a schedule, or delegating tasks. Emphasize your commitment to continually learning and growing in this important area. Discovering your weaknesses Discussing your weaknesses for a job interview can be challenging, but it's an important part of preparing for the interview. Here are some steps to help you identify your weaknesses: Reflect on your past experiences: Take some time to reflect on your past work experiences and think about areas where you struggled or received feedback for improvement. Ask for feedback: Reach out to colleagues or supervisors and ask for constructive feedback on areas where you could improve. This can help you gain valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses. Take a personality or skills assessment: Consider taking a personality or skills assessment, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or the CliftonStrengths assessment, to gain a better understanding of your strengths and areas for improvement. Consider the job requirements: Review the job description and think about areas where you may not have as much experience or knowledge. This can help you identify areas where you may need to improve or develop new skills. Practice self-reflection: Regularly engage in self-reflection and evaluate your own performance. Think about areas where you could have done better and consider how you can improve in the future. Remember, it's important to be honest with yourself and the interviewer when discussing your weaknesses. However, it's also important to frame your weaknesses in a way that shows how you're actively working to improve and grow. By taking the time to reflect on your weaknesses and develop strategies for improvement, you'll be better prepared to answer this challenging interview question. Tips for answering 1. Be honest and self-aware: Honesty is always the best policy. Acknowledging your weaknesses in a job interview shows that you are self-aware and willing to learn. However, be sure to present your weaknesses in a positive light, and not as a deal-breaker for the job. This demonstrates that you are comfortable with who you are and are open to feedback. 2. Provide examples When discussing your weaknesses, it's essential to provide specific examples from your past experiences. This shows that you have reflected on your weaknesses and are actively working to improve. Also, it gives the interviewer a better understanding of how you handle challenges and overcome obstacles. 3. Emphasize what you've learned Instead of dwelling on your weaknesses, focus on what you have learned from them. This shows that you are a problem solver and can turn a weakness into a strength. By emphasizing your growth and learning, you demonstrate your resilience and adaptability. 4. Show growth and improvement It's not enough to acknowledge your weaknesses and what you've learned from them. You must also show that you have taken active steps to improve. Discuss how you have actively worked to improve in areas where you have weaknesses. This shows that you are motivated to learn and grow in your career. 5. Relate your weaknesses to the job When discussing your weaknesses in a job interview, it's crucial to relate them to the job you are applying for. Discuss how you are actively working to improve in areas that are relevant to the job. This shows that you are invested in the position and willing to do what it takes to be successful. By relating your weaknesses to the job, you demonstrate your commitment to the role and your eagerness to contribute to the company.

Weaknesses for job Interviews: 12 common answers

Even if you don't have a summer job or internship, there are plenty of ways that your summer can give you new experiences for your resume and expose you to career paths you may never have considered before. Check out some of the free resources that can make your summer the resume-builder you’d hoped for. Volunteer projects With so many worthy causes out there that could use your efforts and attention. Why not volunteer to help out with a project that you’re passionate about? It could mean marketing majors polishing your graphic design skills by creating art for demonstrations or rallies, or computer science majors helping refine the website for a local nonprofit that does good work in the community. You’ll not only be lending your time, skills, and focus to something good, but it’s also a great way to showcase tangible projects—and your values—in your portfolio and resume. VolunteerMatch  is a great place to look for opportunities. You can also get in touch with a local nonprofit directly and ask about opportunities to help. Online learning sites Depending on your professional goals, you might want to polish up your marketing skills, learn to code, or gain knowledge about financial markets. Online learning platforms like  Coursera ,  General Assembly , and  Udemy  all offer free online courses for whichever skills you’re motivated to learn! 'Micro-internships' with Forage Forage partners with employers to create short (5-6 hour) ‘Virtual Experience Programs’ for college students. The programs are meant to show you what it's like to do the work of a current employee. It's a risk-free way to explore different career paths. It's also a way to get an "in" with the employers you're interested in. The programs are free, open-access and self-paced.  You can check out the programs and sign up here. Learn a language Fluency in multiple languages is a huge asset not only in the workforce, but in daily life. The ability to communicate is extremely valuable in any field and profession, so why not spend your summer learning a new language? With apps like  Duolingo ,  Memrise , and  Mondly  to help build confidence in a range of languages, you’ve got plenty of options—all it takes is a bit of commitment. Photo by  Ignacio Brosa  on  Unsplash

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