Key takeaways
- Handshake is a career platform made for students and recent graduates.
- Many colleges use it to post on-campus and work-study jobs.
- Employers on Handshake seek entry-level talent, not years of experience.
- Students can connect directly with recruiters and top companies.
Finding a full-time job after college can feel overwhelming. Between dozens of job boards, spam emails, and few employer responses, it’s easy to feel lost or discouraged. You might be wondering: How do I even get my foot in the door without experience or connections?
That’s where Handshake comes in. This career platform is designed specifically for college students and recent graduates. With Handshake, you can discover internships, part-time jobs, or full-time roles tailored to your skills and education. It can give you a direct connection to employers who are looking for people like you. Plus, you can get helpful resources all in one place to launch your career.
What is the Handshake platform?
Handshake was created in 2014 by three students from Michigan Tech: Garrett Lord, Scott Ringwelski, and Ben Christensen. They wanted to make it easier for students to find jobs after graduation.
Handshake connects students with employers all in one simple platform. It helps students explore careers, find internships and work study jobs, and apply for entry-level jobs. Everything is matched to a student’s skills and education.
Employers know that many students have little work experience, and jobs on Handshake are made for beginners. Students get a chance to start their careers, and employers find motivated new talent.
How do colleges use Handshake?
Many colleges and universities use Handshake to post on-campus and work-study jobs. Students can log in with their school email to find campus-based opportunities. Some common positions include library assistants, lab aides, and tutors.
Colleges also use Handshake to post departmental roles, research positions, and internships specific to a student’s major. Career services offices integrate the platform into workshops, advising sessions, and virtual career fairs. This can make it easier to access verified jobs in one location rather than checking out many different job boards.
How is Handshake helpful for students?
Handshake goes beyond job listings. It’s a full career toolkit for students that offers the following features:
- Virtual career fairs: Attend online events to meet employers without leaving campus.
- Resume and profile tips: Build a strong profile that highlights your skills.
- Interview preparation: Access guides, mock interviews, and scheduling tools.
- Networking opportunities: Connect directly with recruiters and professionals in your field.
- Personalized recommendations: Handshake suggests jobs and internships based on your degree, interests, and location.
- Notifications: Get alerts for new positions, deadlines, and upcoming career events.
These tools can make it easier for students to apply strategically rather than sending generic applications and hoping for a response.
How do you sign up for Handshake?
Getting started is quick and free:
- Use your college email address to create an account on the website or mobile app.
- Complete your profile with your degree, major, graduation year, and job interests.
- Start browsing open positions, connect with employers, and apply directly—all in one place.
Once your profile is ready, you can jump in and explore jobs. With just a few clicks, you can start connecting with employers.
Tips for students using Handshake
To get the most out of Handshake, follow these tips:
- Complete your profile fully: Include classes, relevant projects, skills, and experiences.
- Follow companies and organizations: Stay updated on new job postings and events.
- Apply early: Employers often hire on a rolling basis, so submitting applications early increases your chances.
- Engage with career events: Attend virtual fairs and info sessions to make connections.
- Customize applications: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each position rather than using a generic submission.
Following these tips could help you stand out on this platform.
Why Handshake over other job platforms?
Unlike Indeed, ZipRecruiter, or LinkedIn, which often list mid- or senior-level jobs, Handshake is made for students. Employers know that most students have little work experience. On this platform, they offer internships and entry-level positions that give students a real chance to start their careers.
Big companies like Goldman Sachs, Target, and Bank of America use Handshake to find college talent. Students can message employers directly, check out company pages, and even attend virtual career fairs.
Start your career with confidence
Graduation can be stressful, and finding a full-time job right away isn’t always simple. The Handshake helps connect students with employers who want to hire beginners. You can find entry-level jobs, internships, and work-study positions all in one place. Building a complete profile, applying early, and attending virtual career fairs can give you a big advantage.
Still not sure which opportunity is right for you? Try College Raptor’s FREE Career Finder. Explore over 1,100 careers to see what might be a good fit.
Get more helpful resources to help set you up for what’s next by heading over to the Citizens Student Hub.
