5 ways to build your resume and gain career experience
The experience you gain in college can help you build skills, strengthen your resume and feel more prepared for your first job.ÌýÌý
You don’t need to know exactly what career you want before you start gaining experience. Internships, campus jobs, volunteer opportunities and short online programs can all help you build skills, strengthen your resume and learn what kind of work interests you.Ìý
Here are five ways to gain career experience this semester.Ìý
ÌýÌýFind an internshipÌý
Want hands-on experience in your field? An internship can help you apply what you’re learning, build professional connections and explore what you want from a future job.Ìý
Search Handshake for internships or explore Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder internship programs for specialized opportunities and experiences. New internships are added regularly, so check Handshake often as you search.Ìý
ÌýÌýBuild skills and earn a credentialÌý
Want to build a specific skill on your own schedule? offers free, self-paced online courses and professional certificates from companies like Google, Adobe and Salesforce.Ìý
You can develop practical skills in areas such as data analytics, project management, cybersecurity and digital marketing while earning credentials you can add to your resume or LinkedIn profile.Ìý
ÌýÌýTry a job simulationÌý
Not sure what career interests you yet? A job simulation can help you explore different roles before committing to an internship or job.Ìý
Through Forage, you can complete free online simulations based on tasks from real jobs and industries. It’s a low-pressure way to learn what different careers involve, practice skills and discover what kinds of work you enjoy.Ìý
ÌýÌýGet an on-campus student jobÌý
Want to earn money while gaining experience? An on-campus job can help you build transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving and time management.Ìý
Campus jobs are also designed with student schedules in mind. Explore student jobs at Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder to learn more and find opportunities.Ìý
ÌýÌýGain experience through volunteeringÌý
Want to build skills while contributing to something you care about? Volunteering can help you gain experience, meet new people and explore interests outside the classroom.Ìý
Service Learning & Impact in Community Engagement (SLICE) can help you find volunteer opportunities based on your interests and availability.Ìý
ÌýÌýChoose one way to get startedÌý
You don’t have to do everything at once. Choose one experience that fits your interests, goals and schedule this semester. Even a short course, campus job, job simulation or volunteer opportunity can help you build skills and learn more about what you want from your career.Ìý
These are just a few ways to gain experience during college. You can also explore opportunities in areas like research, leadership and entrepreneurship. Not sure where to begin? Career Services can help you explore your options and take your next step.Ìý