Landing your dream job or internship doesn’t start the day applications open—it starts now. By taking small, intentional steps, you can build a strong resume, gain meaningful experience, and make valuable connections before recruitment even begins. Here’s how you can start building your experience and personal brand while you’re still in class.
Gain Leadership & Meaningful Experience
Employers notice students who take initiative. You don’t need to hold a fancy title, what matters is impact.
Join clubs or student organizations: Take on roles that give you added responsibility.
Lead projects or campaigns: Organizing events, starting a new initiative, or creating a student program demonstrates initiative.
Volunteer strategically: Community service related to your career interests counts just as much as a paid internship.
Pro Tip: Document measurable results. For example: “Led a team of 10 volunteers to host a career prep workshop for 50 students.” These tangible outcomes make your resume and interviews more compelling.
Collaborate with Professors & Explore Projects
Your professors are more than teachers—they’re mentors, references, and industry connections.
Assist with research or academic projects: Even small contributions count and often lead to bigger opportunities.
Independent studies or special projects: Show initiative in your field while building relevant skills.
Example: A student assisting a sustainability research project not only gains technical experience but also expands their professional network with industry contacts.
Attend Career Events & Network Strategically
Networking is a critical tool to stand out in today’s professional landscape, and it’s never too early to start.
Career fairs, info sessions, meet-and-greets, and alumni events are prime opportunities.
Focus on quality over quantity: Build real connections, not just a stack of business cards.
Practice your elevator pitch and ask thoughtful questions. Follow up with personalized messages to maintain relationships.
Pro Tip: Keep a contact log with notes on each connection. It will make follow-ups easier and more meaningful.
Build Your Personal Brand Early
Your personal brand is more than a resume—it’s how you present yourself to future employers. Start laying the foundation now:
Track experiences: Log leadership roles, projects, volunteer work, awards, and skills.
Highlight strengths: Showcase transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
Tailor your resume: Adjust it for industries of interest—internships and part-time jobs count.
Keep it current: Update regularly to reflect new achievements.
Polish your LinkedIn: Add a professional photo, clear headline, and summary that shares your story and goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for Linkedin recommendations from those you worked with.
Grow your network: Connect with classmates, professors, and industry professionals; engage by commenting or sharing insights.
Take action on campus: Attend career fairs, events, coffees or industry talks, then follow up with people you meet to build lasting connections.
Why a Career Coach Can Help
A career coach can accelerate your progress by helping you:
Identify which experiences and leadership opportunities are most impactful.
Strategically plan projects and extracurricular involvement to strengthen your resume.
Refine networking techniques and cultivate a compelling personal brand before and throughout recruitment season. This includes crafting targeted resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles.
Gain career clarity and identify right-fit roles to start recruitment season strong.
Get interview-ready; with a memorable pitch story and acing interviews.
Career preparation starts long before applications open. By taking initiative through leadership and meaningful projects, documenting achievements, creating standout resumes and cover letters, and utilizing effective networking and interviewing techniques, you can build a competitive edge that sets you apart from the crowd. And with guidance from a career coach, every experience and step can be strategically aligned with both your short and long-term career goals. Start now, and your future self will thank you.
Our team of expert Early Career Coaches is here to support you as you plan for the next chapter.
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