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Just stepping onto the campus of a U.S. college? Are you excited about your future career but feeling a bit lost? Don’t worry, today we introduce you to a secret weapon—Handshake. Known as “the first step in career planning for college students,” this platform has revolutionized career planning at most U.S. universities.
Exclusive opportunities: Discover hidden jobs only available to college students!
Simply put, Handshake is a career recruitment platform designed specifically for college students and recent graduates. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior about to graduate, you’ll find thousands of opportunities, including internships, full-time jobs, and campus recruiting events waiting for you on this platform!
Why you should use Handshake
- Campus-exclusive opportunities to easily find the right position
Many companies use Handshake to post exclusive jobs for college students that are not listed on other job boards! You’ll find many opportunities specifically designed for students, which don’t require prior work experience but focus more on your academic background and potential. - Smart recommendations: Let opportunities find you
Tired of scrolling through job boards every day? Don’t worry—Handshake uses your profile and interests to intelligently recommend jobs to you! After setting up your career preferences, relevant internship or job opportunities will appear, saving you from the hassle of searching. - Direct communication with desired companies: Build connections early
On Handshake, you can apply directly to companies with your resume and even interact with hiring managers online, setting the foundation for your job search journey. Follow companies you’re interested in, learn about their hiring trends, and even attend their virtual career fairs.
How to make the most of Handshake
- Find the link to your school’s Handshake and complete registration
Each university typically provides a dedicated link to Handshake on its career services website. You can access the platform by logging into your school’s career services page or by searching “Handshake + [Your School’s Name].”
Once on the Handshake page, register using your school email, which will automatically grant you access to school-specific job opportunities. If you’ve already received a registration invite from your school, it’s even easier—just click the link in the email to create your account.
- Complete your profile and build an attractive resume
After registering, the next step is to complete your profile. This is key to standing out on Handshake! Your profile should include your educational background, major, skills, internships, campus activities, etc. Consider the content you want to showcase most to potential employers, ensuring all information is complete and accurate.
Next, don’t forget to upload your resume! Handshake provides templates and tips to help you improve your resume quality. Tailor different versions of your resume based on the jobs you’re applying for. When completing your profile, highlight your project experience, teamwork, and leadership skills developed during your studies, as employers pay special attention to these.
Tip: Many companies prioritize complete profiles, so try to fill out every section clearly to showcase your strengths and potential.
- Smart recommendations and job search: Find your exclusive opportunities
Once your profile is complete, Handshake will recommend jobs based on your career interests, skills, and academic background. Browse through the platform’s recommendations for internships and full-time positions to find the best fit.
If you have specific goals or industries in mind, use the keyword search function. Enter the company name, job type, or industry keywords, and Handshake will filter the relevant opportunities. You can also narrow down your search using filters such as location, job type, and industry to find positions that align with your career goals.
Tip: Regularly update your areas of interest and keywords for more accurate job recommendations. Don’t forget to set job alerts so you get notified of new opportunities.
- Connect with desired companies and actively participate in recruiting events
Handshake provides a chance to directly connect with numerous companies—a golden opportunity! You can follow companies you’re interested in, learn about their hiring trends, and company culture. When you find a job you like, you can apply online directly. Plus, many companies on Handshake host online info sessions and recruitment events. These events not only provide you with valuable insights into the industry but also offer the opportunity to interact with hiring managers, ask questions, and establish initial connections.
If you’re interested in a particular company, please send your resume and a personalized cover letter to demonstrate your initiative and enthusiasm. Many employers will review resumes directly through Handshake, making it an excellent opportunity to market yourself. Be sure to attend events and build your professional network!
Tip: If you have the chance to attend an online or in-person career fair, make sure you’re ready to introduce yourself and research the companies you’re interested in. After the event, follow up to leave a lasting impression on HR.
Special tips for freshmen
Your freshman year is the starting point for your career planning—don’t wait until grad school applications or your last year to look for internships and jobs! By using Handshake, you can start building your internship experience from your first year, laying the groundwork for your future career.
Career planning is a continuous process, not something to leave until the last minute. Start preparing now by registering for your Handshake account and exploring the career opportunities tailored for you. For more tips and guidance, contact Ivy Talent to learn how we can support your journey.
Date: May 28th, 2025