Networking
Networking is simply the process of building genuine relationships. It's about getting to know people, learning from their experiences, and staying connected over time.
Take advantage of every opportunity your university offers. Attend networking events, career fairs, employer information sessions, and alumni panels. Join engineering organizations, design teams, or even a club sport. You never know who you'll meet or who they might know. Many internship and full-time opportunities come from referrals and personal connections.
Don't overlook your university's alumni network, either. Alumni are often willing to help students from their alma mater, especially if you approach them respectfully and show genuine interest in their career path.
LinkedIn is another powerful networking tool. Search for alumni or engineers working at companies you're interested in and send a brief, personalized message. Your goal isn't to ask for a job, it's to start a conversation, learn about their experience, and build a relationship. Build the relationship BEFORE you need something from them.
LinkedIn Networking Message
Hi [Name],
I hope you're doing well! My name is [Your Name], and I'm currently studying [Engineering Major] at [University].
I came across your profile while researching careers at [Company], and I noticed that you also attended [University] (or work in a field I'm interested in). I'd love to learn more about your experience and hear any advice you might have for someone hoping to pursue a similar career.
If you have 15–20 minutes sometime in the next few weeks, I'd really appreciate the opportunity to chat. Thank you for your time, and I hope to connect with you!
Best,
[Your Name]
Career Fairs
Career fairs are one of the best ways to get your resume directly into the hands of recruiters. Instead of being just another online application, you have the opportunity to make a personal connection that could lead to an interview or internship. Treat every conversation like a mini interview, you never know which one could open the next door!
Dress professionally, bring several copies of your resume, and have a simple student business card with your name, major, graduation date, email, phone number, LinkedIn, and portfolio website (if you have one). Small details like these make you look prepared and make it easier for recruiters to remember you after the event.
Don't just show up and wander around, have a plan! Before the career fair, look at the list of attending companies and decide which ones you want to speak with first. Research the companies you're most interested in and have a few questions ready. A good strategy is to avoid the largest employers during the busiest part of the event. Companies like Lockheed Martin or Northrop Grumman often have the longest lines, so you may spend 30–60 minutes waiting for a single conversation. Instead, visit those companies early!
Before you walk in, have a 30–60 second elevator pitch ready. Introduce yourself, mention your major, what area of engineering interests you, and why you're excited to speak with that company. Keep it conversational, you want to sound confident, not rehearsed. Smile, make eye contact, and remember that recruiters are evaluating your communication skills just as much as your technical knowledge.
A simple formula for your elevator pitch
Who you are → What you're studying → What you're interested in → Why you're talking to them
Example:
"Hi! My name is Sarah. I'm a junior studying civil engineering at the University of Maryland. I'm really interested in transportation and structural engineering, and I've completed several class and personal projects related to roadway and bridge design. I was excited to see your company would be here today because of the work you do in transportation infrastructure, and I'd love to learn more about your internship opportunities and the kinds of projects interns get to work on."
Keep it conversational, smile, make eye contact, and let the conversation flow naturally from there!
As you talk with recruiters, ask thoughtful questions about internships, projects, or what they look for in successful candidates. Before ending the conversation, ask if they're conducting any on-campus or in-person interviews that week. Many companies schedule interviews immediately after career fairs, and asking shows initiative. After each conversation, jot down a few notes so you remember who you met and what you discussed. Finally, follow up with a short LinkedIn connection or thank-you email within a day or two. It's a simple step that many students skip, and it can help you stand out long after the career fair is over.