Build experience
A powerful way to explore majors and careers is to start building hands-on experience in a field related to your interests. Meet with your career coach to learn more about how to gain experience and showcase your marketable skills.
Looking for a job?
Want to build professional skills?
How can I build experience?
Getting involved with any student organization can help you gain experience and meet with students who have similar interests and goals. Look for the Student Involvement Fair at the beginning of each semester to investigate a variety of options. Keep in mind that you can join most student
Visit your career coach or BeInvolved.bloomington.iu.edu to explore the various student groups on campus.
With over 800 student organizations, from the Environmental Law Society to the Sweet Potato Club, you'll be able to find something that you can get excited about at Indiana University.
Some clubs have clear ties to
Jobs and internships not only provide a paycheck but also create opportunities to explore career paths. You can find plenty of work-study and non-work-study jobs both on and off campus.
You may also consider getting a summer job, as it is a great time to explore the world of work and build skills that will transfer from one job to another. Additionally, you can start your search for internships as early as your freshman year. Meet with your career coach and visit the Student Employment website for more information about finding a job or internship.
Study abroad experiences are a popular option with students, but did you know they are extremely valuable for developing your future career?
Students often think of study abroad as an opportunity for personal growth and developing a broader global, cultural understanding. These benefits can also help you with your career discernment and development process by immersing you in world languages, global cultures, internships, and strengthening transferable skills in an international context.
If you are considering studying abroad, be sure to meet with an advisor in the Office of Overseas Studies.
Undergraduate research is a great way to combine academic interests with hands-on experiences.
Many academic departments offer research opportunities to undergraduates. Not only can you gain hands-on experience through research, you can also explore new, creative ideas and investigate real-world problems and issues. It’s a great way to start building experience for your resume.
You can start reading about the fascinating research happening here at News at IU or the Journal of Undergraduate Research, which publishes annually through IU Scholar Works.
Civic engagement focuses on educating students as global citizens. Classes or programs include meaningful civic education and activities for social good, with components of reflection and engagement. The Political and Civic Engagement (PACE) program has more information about this experience.
Service Learning allows students to help the community, apply what they are learning in the classroom, and gain real-world experience. A list of service-learning courses can be found in the Office of the Registrar's Special Course Listings (choose the current semester and then select "Other Special Course Offerings") or through the Engaged Learning Website.
Volunteering with an organization you are passionate about can help personalize your time at IU. It is a great way to learn about specific fields and organizations, network with others, and develop skills. You can visit IU Corps to learn more about volunteer opportunities in the Bloomington community. Volunteering can happen any time. Find something you love to do and get started right away.
Attend a job fair
Job fairs are a great way to find jobs & internships, explore careers, and network with employers.
