7 ways students can gain professional experience
There are many ways to gain professional experience outside of a traditional internship or job. These experiences can add depth to your student’s resume and LinkedIn profile, and also give them great stories to share during interviews to demonstrate their strengths and skills. Here are some opportunities to share with your student.
Short-term internships
Short-term internships, also known as micro-internships, are positions that are typically 4-6 weeks long. These opportunities allow students to fit in professional experience at different times of the year than traditional internships.
is one platform offering these opportunities in a larger program. They provide professional development through workshops, mentorship, connections and hands-on experience. Your student can also check out the and Handshake for micro-internship opportunities.
Job simulations
If your student has ever wondered what it would be like to work in a specific job role or at a specific company, job simulations offer that opportunity.Ìý
The Forage is a platform that offers 6-7 hour virtual roles where students can explore what it’s like to work at some of the largest companies in the world. They can practice doing the actual work of a company and submit their results to staff for review. If staff like what they see, your student may just hear back from them about an internship or job opportunity.Ìý
Your student can . If they are in the Leeds School of Business or College of Engineering and Applied Science, they can use these custom landing pages that offer pre-selected options:
LinkedIn Learning
One of the best ways to sharpen an application for a job or internship is for students to add a strong skills section to their resume. Listing practical skills that set them apart can put them at the front of the line for hiring consideration.
LinkedIn Learning can help your student develop all kinds of transferable skills that are sure to impress employers. Courses range in length, and they can choose from options that will teach:
How to use Microsoft Excel, Adobe and other programs
Job-specific skills like coding, social media for business or building a website
Soft skills like public speaking, project management, leadership and more
at no additional cost.
Innovation and entrepreneurship programs
CU Boulder has a rich culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, and there are some amazing programs on campus that support students in pursuing their dreams. If your student is interested in starting their own business or exploring an innovative idea, encourage them to check out the following opportunities:
Learn more about innovation and entrepreneurship resources.
Volunteering
One of the best ways students can learn about themselves, develop skills and give back to others is through volunteering. Volunteer roles can vary—your student may find themself doing everything from working with animals to writing grants to collecting data for organizations.Ìý
There are plenty of opportunities to match your student’s interests and fit their schedule. Suggest that they connect with the Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) to learn more about finding service opportunities.
Forever Buffs Network
Students can connect with CU Boulder alumni and other students on the . Your student can create an account and network or set up informational interviews with alumni to learn more about jobs or industries they’re interested in.Ìý
Research opportunities
When it comes to research, CU Boulder is one of the world’s leading institutions. Research is useful in the classroom and on campus, but it can also be incredibly helpful in your student’s future endeavors. If your student is interested in research, the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) provides hands-on experience in a research or creative project. There are also opportunities to connect with faculty mentors.
For more tips, encourage your student to check out weekly virtual programs and workshops from Career Services. These free workshops will share best practices for resumes, making progress in your job or internship search (especially during challenging times) and more.