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What are some classes or activities that stand out on an engineering resume?

I'm looking to get an internship for next summer, and I want to have a resume that stands out.

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Kokab’s Answer

Maddie, it's fantastic that you're already thinking about your career path - that's a smart move! Engineering is a broad field with many subfields. Do you know which one you're interested in? Once you've identified the companies or roles you'd like to intern for, take a look at some job ads for entry-level positions or internships. This will give you an idea of what skills and qualifications they're looking for. You can then choose your academic projects or courses based on these requirements. Remember, employers often value teamwork, so participating in group projects can be beneficial. Also, don't forget to consult your college's career counselor if one is available.
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Dexter’s Answer

Hi Maddie,

I think Kokab's answer is spot on and just wanted to add a small idea.

Have you thought about volunteering at a non-profit based not on the cause that you care about the most, but based on the skills you'd like to practice? Websites such as https://www.catchafire.org can connect you with non-profits that are looking for specific skills that you may want to practice in the "real world". As a hiring manager myself, I always value real life experiences and volunteering at a non-profit would totally count—especially if it was related to the technical skill that you are trying to prove that you have.

Secondly, if the engineering job is anyway related to coding, I highly recommend giving back to open source projects. Again, real life experience is highly valued and having a maintainer accept code changes would show me that you are capable of understanding someone else's code enough to contribute—this is a skill that every hiring manager looks for in entry level coders. And, at the end of the day, you can feel good about contributing back to open source and making the world better.

I hope these ideas were useful and I wish you the best!

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Dexter
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Erin’s Answer

Hey Maddie, it's fantastic that you're considering internships as a stepping stone in your career path - they truly are pivotal. When crafting your resume or cover letter, make sure to highlight who you are as an individual, what sparks your enthusiasm, the moments that motivate you, and the knowledge you're eager to gain. Even if it's an informal activity or a hobby, displaying the leadership and passion you've shown in your life will help others relate to you. Highlight instances where you've demonstrated leadership or learning skills, even if they weren't in a professional setting. By showcasing your reliability, accountability, and passion, you'll paint a picture of an ideal candidate that any team would be thrilled to have onboard.

When the time comes to apply for internships, I encourage you to cast a wide net, considering all areas that pique your interest in relation to engineering. Don't get too hung up on finding the 'perfect' internship that directly aligns with your field. Internships serve as an excellent platform to 'test drive' a job - to get a feel for a company's environment, understand the nature of a field, and grasp what the daily grind would look like. Consider it akin to trying on new attire - you can't truly know how it fits or feels until you've worn it.

Explore various internships in fields related to your interest to help you figure out what you enjoy and what you don't. Each internship is a stepping stone that brings you closer to discovering the ideal full-time job for you. Remember, a career is a journey with multiple paths leading to your dreams, not a single, straight road. Continue to explore, give your best in every opportunity, and you'll be amazed at how much you'll learn!
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