Engage in experiential opportunities to test your interests, network with professionals, and gain valuable skills.
Identify
Determine the type of experience that meets your needs.
- Internships- usually a semester long commitment, 5-15 hours a week; BSOS opportunities.
- International experiences- study abroad, for example. a semester long commitment; planning usually starts a year before departure date; BSOS opportunities.
- Research- generally a commitment of up to one year, but it can vary; on-campus or off campus opportunities; BSOS opportunities.
- Be a leader on-campus- low time commitment; join a campus club and apply for a leadership role; BSOS opportunities.
- Volunteer/Service Learning- one weekend a month to semester long commitment; varies by program; a chance to give back to the community, BSOS opportunities & OCE's volunteer options.
- Part-time job- ongoing basis, paid positions; on and off campus.
Prepare
Make a plan so you are ready to apply for opportunities/programs.
- Develop a resume to apply and request a resume review appointment.
- Draft a cover letter.
- Create a 30-second elevator pitch and develop your brand.
- Sharpen your interviewing skills through a mock interview.
- Careers4Terps, review opportunities for BSOS students listed in this online job and internship database.
- EDCP 108i: Academic Transitions to Internships is a 7-week (half-semester) course recommended for students who have never had an internship and are actively searching for one- 1-credit online course.
- Connect with your academic department to stay informed of opportunities.
- Search strategies, start your internship search with these tips and explore openings.
Connect
Continue to explore career options by talking with professionals and alumni. There are so many options!
- Conduct informational interviews to explore career paths and identify skills in demand.
- Connect with BSOS alumni ask questions about their field of work.
- LinkedIn Learning, gain a new skill and test your interest by completing an online training video.
- Attend Career Center events to network with employers at information sessions, career shuttles, and fairs.
- Make connections with faculty in your area of interest and seek mentors outside of the classroom working in your field of interest.
- Initiate a plan for your post-graduation adventure (graduate school, working full-time, gap year experience, etc.).
NEXT STEPS:
Job Search/Graduate School: Planning for Post Graduation