There are many ways to build your resume and gain valuable experience while in college. Whether an opportunity is paid or unpaid, on- or off- campus, within the U.S. or abroad, these experiences allow you to explore career fields and build transferable skills.
Part-Time Jobs & Internships
Employers tend to favor candidates with previous work experience when hiring interns and full-time candidates. Part-time employment can take place either on-campus or off and is an excellent way to start building transferable skills and increase marketability for future opportunities.
Internship experiences are some of the most influential on-the-job learning you can have while in college and can even pave the way for full-time employment. Quality internships offer direct industry exposure, integrate classroom learning, and further develop skills that are invaluable when preparing for roles after college. Although many internships occur in the summer, they are available during the fall and spring semesters as well.
Internships can be either paid or unpaid depending on the industry. To help cover some of the out-of-pocket expenses related to an internship, look for scholarships and other financial support available, including the Internship Opportunity Award offered for unpaid summer semester internships.
Check Handshake for on- and off-campus jobs, seasonal work, internship positions, and more. For more information on on-campus opportunities, see the on-campus job resource.
Undergraduate Research
World-renowned research occurs across all academic units on campus, bringing together teams of faculty scholars and students to develop new knowledge and practices. By getting involved in undergraduate research, you can explore different fields of study, gain real-world experience, and deepen relationships with faculty. These experiences help you prepare for careers and/or graduate study by enhancing analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills (among other things).
Learn about the research being done on campus through MSU Scholars and find undergraduate research opportunities on Handshake.
Learn more about the benefits of participating in research by checking out the Undergraduate Research website.
Entrepreneurship
Students of all majors may benefit from participating in student-led startups and working in entrepreneurial environments. MSU is recognized as an institutional leader in Entrepreneurial Education, with the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation as the main “hub” to find programs, courses, and resources to foster an enterprising mindset and create new ventures.
Student Organizations & Campus Leadership
Being an active member and/or leader in a professional or social student organization allows you to take on responsibility, learn time management, develop your network, and impact the university community. This type of activity can also provide you with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to be a good leader, which is a valued quality in the professional world.
Search over 900 registered student organizations on the RSO Community Directory.
Education Abroad & Study Away
Education abroad (overseas) and study away (U.S.) programs expand your classroom learning through a wide range of experiences offered all over the world. Fully engaging in these programs, and reflecting on them upon return, can help you expand your perspective, become more culturally aware, and grow personally and professionally.
Learn about opportunities abroad offered by searching programs on the Office for Education Abroad website.
Volunteering / Community Service
Serving the community allows you to address societal needs and extend interests outside the classroom. It can also be a great way to get a foot in the door for future employment.
Use the MSU Center for Community Engaged Learning as a resource for finding volunteer or community service projects
