Applying to jobs and internships can be stressful, and it’s hard to know where to start if this is your first time entering the employment market. Luckily, Syracuse University’s Career and Internship Fair provides a head start, allowing students to make initial connections and introduce themselves to potential employers. But now what? If you attended the Fair and don’t know where to go from here, we’ve got you covered! From LinkedIn requests to resume building, there are plenty of ways to further your connections and materialize your goals.
Follow up With Employers
The easiest and first thing you should do is follow up with employers, even if you only chatted briefly. This will give them a chance to confirm you were at the event and interested in their company or organization, even if they don’t remember your name. Interest is one of the main things employers look for because it shows you’re committed to the role and you’re willing to put in the extra effort to make that known. Mention one thing you found interesting or helpful at the event to jog their memory and show enthusiasm. This will make you stand out among other potential applicants!
Even if you’re not sure you’d like to work at that company, you should always reach out. Who knows, you might establish a meaningful connection that will help you get a job somewhere else down the line, or that person may have great insight into the industry you plan to enter and can offer you valuable advice! The most common way to follow up is by sending an email, but connecting on LinkedIn is also a great option.
Use the Alumni Network
The Syracuse University alumni network always wants to see students succeed, and if you ever need guidance or advice, they are a great resource. Career Services offers several ways to connect with Syracuse alumni, including Firsthand and the Ask Orange Alumni tool, which matches your questions with alumni best suited to answer them. Other resources include alumni industry groups and regional alumni events, which students have access to through the Alumni Association website.
Meet With Career Advisors
If you’ve already connected with employers but haven’t narrowed down your interests or fine-tuned your applications to newly opening jobs, then career advisors can help. Whether it’s resume reviewing or help writing cover letters, they have you covered. Head to the Career Services website to make an appointment through Career Coaching and meet with a specialized advisor from your school or college career center. The website also offers virtual programs to help with several career-centered topics, including mock interview practice, networking, strategizing and portfolio preparation.
Make a Spreadsheet
The most important thing to do, especially if this is your first time actively applying to internships or jobs, is to make a spreadsheet. Make a list of all the companies and jobs you’re interested in. Then, include your application status, the deadline, necessary essays or recommendations, location, pay and any other important information. This way, you can keep track of deadlines and acceptances, and you have a whole reference sheet to look back at the next time you’re on the hunt for a new opportunity.
Making a spreadsheet will also help you determine which jobs are most interesting and suitable to you, narrowing down future career searches so you can prioritize your top choices. Once you’ve created a spreadsheet, head to Handshake, LinkedIn or another job site to find more jobs or internships that fit that criteria. Sign up for Handshake emails and notifications to see when new applications open for jobs you may be interested in.
Remember, if you have any questions about anything career-related, you can schedule an appointment with a Career Services staff member or swing by the Career Services office in 111 Waverly Ave., Suite 230. Happy searching!
Written By Kate Jackson ’26, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs