The most common misperception of how to job search is that success will come with more applications. Many job seekers can spend hours applying and applying to jobs and never hear anything back. Instead of spending hours submitting applications, the Career Center recommends job seekers spend most of their time networking and talking to people. It is through talking to others that we often learn about opportunities we otherwise didn’t know existed. Shared below are opportunities that might be a fit for you, but you won't find on any job board!
Apprenticeships are industry driven and offer a high-quality pathway to a career. Individuals who participate in an apprenticeship should expect to receive paid work experience, classroom instruction, and mentorship. Students may have heard of apprenticeships within fields of manufacturing or construction, but there has been a growing effort to create apprenticeships in industries like health care, technology, and more. ApprenticeshipUSA offers more information about what an Apprenticeship is and an “Apprenticeship Job Finder” to explore local opportunities. This is an exceptional way to reduce possible debt you may gain while in school.
Internships are a short-term experience where students can work in their field, gain professional skills, and apply what they are learning in the classroom out in the professional world. Regardless whether your major requires an internship or not, an internship will always be recommended and available to all majors. You are encouraged to search for an internship at least 6 months before you hope to start an internship and participate while you are in school. You can find resources and internship opportunities on Metro State's Internship Resources webpage.
Micro-Internships are short-term, paid, professional assignments that are similar to those given to new hires or interns. These projects allow you to demonstrate skills, explore career paths, and build your networks as you seek the right full-time role. Metro State has partnered with Parker Dewey to host micro-internships. Create your account and check back frequently. Opportunities change daily.
The Seeds program provides paid college-level student worker positions to highly motivated minority or economically disadvantaged college students, students who are recently separated veterans, students with disabilities, or female students in STEM or non-traditional fields of study. As a participant in this program, students will gain firsthand knowledge and experience by working in the real world with professionals in a variety of fields. Day-to-day opportunities include participating in meetings and training classes, as well as networking with industry professionals in your chosen field of study. Learn more about qualifications, pay, and openings on the Seeds website.
You can gain experience while in school at Metro State. Check out “Student Job Openings” on our campus employment page.
Individuals with a disability who are interested in working for the State of Minnesota should take advantage of the Connect 700 program. This program allows individuals up to 700 hours to demonstrate that they are able to perform the work duties. Interested participants must apply for an eligibility certificate that qualifies them to utilize this program for up to 2 years. Details about the program can be found on the State of Minnesota careers webpage.
The Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) is a resource that connects students and recent graduates with disabilities to federal and private sector employers nationwide. Positions can be summer experiences or permanent jobs. Registration for this program typically happens near the start of the academic year. All details about this program can be found on the WRP website.
Questions about this program can be directed to Metro State’s WRP Coordinator.
For students interested in working for the Federal Government, getting a foot in the door after graduation can prove difficult. What many job seekers do not know is that there are opportunities in the federal government open to students and recent graduates right now! Details on student programs can be located on USAJOBS.gov.