Prepare for Your Future
Develop Your Career Toolkit
Not only can we help you find the right co-op or internship, EPP also offers career coaching, resume support, and professional guidance for every step in the hiring process.
This page is a resource for you to bookmark and return to while you navigate the start of your professional journey. We also encourage you to make an appointment with one of our staff members via Handshake so we can help you develop a tailored plan that will help you reach your goals.
Preparing for Recruitment
Recruitment timeline
For Co-ops and Internships:
- Early Fall: The beginning of the semester is a critical time in the recruitment cycle. Attend the Engineering Cookout, Employer Spotlights, Networking at Night, and Level Up Events to connect with employers early and get prepared for the Engineering Expo.
- Fall Expo: Connect with employers at the Fall Engineering Expo.
- Late Fall: Recruitment cycles for the following year are reaching an end.
- Early Spring: If still searching for a summer internship or full-time employment, now is the time to start engaging with company applications and career resources in preparation for the Spring Engineering Expo.
- Spring: Companies still recruit in the spring, so it’s important to stay engaged in the process and attend the Spring Engineering Expo.
For Full-Time Positions:
- We recommend starting early: June and January are popular recruitment cycle starting points for employers.
Why Network?
Building your professional network has many long-last benefits including:
- Build relationships that support you through both your college and professional journey
- Discover career opportunities
- Learn about different industries and career paths
- Connect with mentors and professionals in your field
- Practice professional communication
- Build confidence
Interviewing
An interview is one of the biggest steps in landing a co-op, internship, or permanent role with a company. It’s your chance to showcase your skills and accomplishments while also assessing if the potential employer and position suit your career goals.
- Research the company thoroughly, including their mission, values, locations, and projects.
- If possible, learn about the interviewers via Handshake, LinkedIn, or the company website.
- It might be helpful to take notes (by hand!) during interviews, especially if you’re talking to multiple companies back-to-back at a recruiting event like Interview Day.
- Prepare questions about the company, the position, or the work you’ll be doing ahead of time. Unsure where to start? Review this guide on asking questions during your interview.
- Dress professionally. Plan your outfit ahead of time and try it on to ensure it’s comfortable and distraction-free. Check out this helpful guide on professional clothing tips.
- Take care of yourself! Getting a full night of sleep and eating a filling meal before your interview will help with nerves.
- Follow up afterwards to thank your interviewers for their time and affirm your excitement about the role.
- Prepare for potential interview questions by participating in a mock interview or by reviewing this list of commonly asked questions.
Templates
Send your application materials to employers with confidence by using our resume and cover letter templates below.
Resume
Employers seek resumes that are easily scannable, highlight relevant experiences, and list key achievements. Use our resume template to ensure yours is on the right track!
Cover Letter
Cover letters should specifically address why you’re applying for a role and what value you bring to the company. For a detailed outline, use our cover letter template and customize it for each application.
Need Additional Guidance?
Come to ZEC 161 for walk-in mock interviews or to meet with ambassadors and EPP staff.
Engineering Professional Practice Office (ZEC 161)
Monday–Friday | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.