Job Search Resources

Handshake Help

With thousands of employers posting career opportunities on the platform, Handshake is an incredibly powerful tool for your internship and job searches. Learn more about navigating Handshake and utilizing strategies and tips to help strengthen your search skills.

Search and use filters on Handshake's Job tab
Provides example of job description on Handshake

How to Read a Job Description:

  1. Start with the Required Qualifications
  2. Review the Preferred Qualifications ​​​​​​- If you meet 60% of these qualifications, you are encouraged to apply
  3. Explore the Duties and Description of the position
  4. Finally, after reviewing all the items above, read through the entire description
  5. If the position fits what you're looking for - APPLY!

Help with Resumes, Cover letters, and Interviewing

We offer a variety of resources for students to get assistance on their resumes and cover letters and preparing for interviews.

Our website has extensive information about writing resumes and cover letters as well as examples to further assist you. Check out these links for more information:

Handshake

Handshake is a web-based system for accessing:

  • Full-time career-related positions for upcoming graduates and alumni.
  • On-campus interviews with employers who are recruiting seniors and recent graduates.
  • Part-time, off campus jobs for students.
  • On-campus work-study and regular-wage jobs for students.
  • Federal work study community service jobs (including America Reads and America Counts) for students.
  • Paid and unpaid internships for students.

Workshops & Events

Workshops offered by the University Career Center help to develop and implement effective job search strategies. Some workshop topics include: 

  • Writing Resumes and Cover Letters
  • Interviewing
  • Networking
  • Major & Career Choice
  • Internships
  • Job Search

Career Fairs

Career Fairs and other career events bring employers directly to Portland State to connect with students & alumni and discuss available jobs and best practices for applying.

Viking Visits

Viking Visits are an opportunity to go directly to local companies to get an exclusive, firsthand look at what makes them successful. It is a chance to meet and hear from professionals about what they do and how students can start a career in this industry.