Find A Job
Starting your job search can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At ELCS, we’re here to help you navigate every step, from identifying your interests and building your resume to finding the right opportunities and preparing for interviews. Whether you’re seeking part-time work, internships, or your first full-time role after graduation, the job search is a valuable learning process that helps you grow your skills and confidence. Explore the tools and resources below to launch your search with purpose and direction.Â
Key Steps to Start
- Treat your job search like a class: Dedicate consistent time each day to researching, applying, and preparing—it’s a process that rewards persistence and creativity.
- Be proactive, not passive: Don’t rely solely on online applications. Pursue internships, attend events, schedule informational interviews, and use networking to uncover hidden opportunities.Â
- Start with self-reflection: Identify your interests, skills, values, and goals. Use assessments to better understand your fit.Â
- Create a plan: Define the type of role, industry, location, and organization size you’re targeting. Research job requirements, salaries, and growth potential.
- Research employers: Use Handshake, LinkedIn, and company websites, and talk to professionals in the field to gather insights and connections.
- Develop application materials: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each position. Meet with ELCS for resume reviews.
- Practice interviews: Anticipate common questions and rehearse your answers in Big Interview. Learn how to ace the interview and consider setting up a mock interview with a career coach.
- Build your network: Let friends, family, faculty, and professionals know you’re job hunting. Attend career fairs, join student or professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn.
- Conduct informational interviews: Reach out to professionals in roles or industries that interest you. Ask them about their career paths, what they enjoy, and what advice they have for someone starting out.Â
- Prepare for setbacks: Not every application will lead to an offer. Reflect on each experience and adjust your strategy as needed.
- Understand offers and negotiate: Compare job offers to your goals, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to negotiate terms that matter to you.
Earn Money While You Study
Check out the top two most flexible ways for you to earn some cash while being a full-time student at UM.
Working on campus is a great way to earn money, gain experience, and stay connected to the UM community. Student jobs help you build real-world skills while applying what you learn in class.
To find part-time jobs, both on and off campus, log into Handshake, UM’s job board for students. You’ll find work-study, non-work-study, internships, and volunteer opportunities that fit your schedule and interests.Â
Schedule an appointment for Handshake support.
Federal Work-Study is a financial aid program that helps students with demonstrated need earn money through part-time jobs. If you qualify, you can work on campus or with approved off-campus nonprofit organizations to help cover your educational expenses. Log into Handshake search for work study jobs.
Work-study awards are determined by the Financial Aid Office and included in your overall aid package. While the program is partially funded by the federal government, the department that hires you covers a portion of your wages—currently 30% (this amount may change). If you have any questions about your eligibility status or using your award, contact the Financial Aid Office.
If you’re offered work-study, you can work up to 19 hours per week during the semester and up to 39 hours per week during breaks.
