As a graduate student at the University of Minnesota, you have access to a variety of resources and are now a part of an international network of Gophers! The University operates in a decentralized system and each college has its own student support resources including career services.
Graduate Student Resources
The U of M’s Graduate School website is a great place to start and find resources to support your career development. There are resources on finding funding opportunities, graduate assistantships, professional development and much more!
Many University wide resources can be helpful for supporting graduate students’ career growth. If you come across an event that you are unsure whether is open to graduate students, contact the facilitator and ask. Most events welcome University of Minnesota students at all levels. Check Handshake (previously known as GoldPASS) for an up to date list of events and opportunities..
Job Search for Graduate Students
Resume versus CV
Resumes are typically used for industry type opportunities or even graduate assistantships. You may find that some opportunities ask for a CV or a curriculum vitae which is a longer document that includes work experience and also has an emphasis on academic achievements as well. Review the position posting details and requirements to determine which document would be a fit to use for the opportunity.
Transferable skills
Having experiences from a variety of fields is a valuable contribution to bring to a program or opportunity, but can be difficult to articulate sometimes. Doing some research on the organization can help you identify what skills to highlight in resume/ CV, cover letters, and interviews. A research project can yield skills such as project management, data analysis, team building, and communication skills. If you want practice interviewing, Interviewstream allows you to record and review videos of yourself responding to practice interview questions.
Building connections
Never doubt the possibilities of a connection well made. Opportunities may be shared verbally or internally before being posted on a job search board/ website. Making connections and sharing your interests with the people you meet can have many benefits such as mentorships, sharing opportunities, expanding support systems, and salary negotiation research to name a few. Start building your connections with the Maroon and Gold Network of UMN alumni and friends!
Jobs Beyond Academia and Tenure Track Workshop Series
Career exploration starts as early as the moment you say yes to your graduate program. Oftentimes, students are seeking support on how to apply the knowledge they've learned during their program as well as gain skills and experience that will supplement their education.
One resource to help you prepare for a job search beyond the academy is the Jobs Beyond Academia and Tenure Track Workshop series. This 5 part series is offered live virtually during the fall semester and is accompanied by a self guided Canvas course. Topics include resume and cover letter writing, evaluating job and organization fit, reflecting on professional identity and much more.
Register now for the Fall 2022 sessions!
Career Resources
Campus Offices
Additionally, career services offices may have resources and services available to graduate students. Connect with a staff member in your college to see how you can use the resources available for your career development! If your college or school isn't listed, contact your career services office for more information:
College of Continuing and Professional Studies
College of Education and Human Development
College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences
College of Science and Engineering
Humphrey School of Public Affairs
Medical School- Office of Professional Development
University of Minnesota, Crookston