Apply for Internships & Jobs
Starting your job or internship search can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can find opportunities that match your skills and goals. Utilize these Engineering Career Hub resources to help you develop customized job and internships search strategies, build connections, and manage your search effectively.
Tips for Job & Internship Searches
1. Understanding the Job Market
Most jobs鈥70鈥80%鈥攐f engineering and computing jobs and internships are not advertised publicly. This 鈥渉idden job market鈥 means that relying only on online postings will limit your options. A strong search combines networking, online tools, and career resources to uncover opportunities.
2. Networking as Your Best Strategy
Around 70鈥85% of jobs are found through networking. Start by reaching out to professors, classmates, alumni, coaches, and community members. Joining student groups or professional associations can also expand your connections. Networking helps you learn about industries and puts you in touch with people who can hire.
3. Informational Interviews
Informational interviews are powerful ways to learn about careers and build relationships. Reach out to alumni or professionals with a short email requesting 20鈥30 minutes to discuss their career path and industry. Prepare thoughtful questions, such as what skills are most important in their field, and always send a thank-you note afterward.
4. Using CU Engineering Alumni and LinkedIn Connections
The is a great starting point to connect with CU Boulder alumni who have volunteered to mentor, answer questions, and share job leads. Alumni in this network often post opportunities, offer guidance, and share insights tailored to CU Boulder graduates. is another powerful tool to expand your professional connections. Use the alumni search tool, join CU Engineering groups, customize your connection requests, and consider reaching out directly by email to build meaningful relationships.
5. Online Job Search Tools
While online job boards account for only about 30% of hiring, they are still useful when used strategically. Start with , where employers specifically seek CU Engineering students for jobs and internships. Then expand your search to targeted sites such as EngineerJobs, Built In Colorado, and Dice, as well as broader platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor. Use filters, keywords, saved searches, and job alerts to stay organized.
6. Managing Your Search Like a Job
Treat your job or internship search with structure. Set short- and long-term goals, establish a routine, and manage your time wisely. Develop a tracking system for positions you apply for. Don鈥檛 let rejection discourage you鈥攕tay persistent, take breaks, and maintain a healthy balance. Remember, your first role doesn鈥檛 have to be perfect; it鈥檚 a step toward your future.
7. Gaining Experience and Growing Your Skills
Employers look for both technical and professional skills. Whether through coursework, research, internships, or student leadership, keep building experiences that strengthen your applications. Professional associations and volunteer opportunities can also help demonstrate initiative and broaden your network.
Applying for jobs and internships is a process of exploration, networking, and persistence. By using multiple strategies, building relationships, and staying organized, you鈥檒l increase your chances of success. For personalized support, connect with the Engineering Career Hub advising staff.听