This interactive workshop helps you take practical next steps by learning how to find job shadowing opportunities (including OSU’s Summer Job Shadow Program), conduct meaningful informational interviews, and confidently approach recruiters and career fairs. You’ll build a simple elevator pitch, brainstorm employers and industries of interest, and create an actionable plan with support from the Career Development Center and University Exploratory Studies. Leave with clarity, connections, and a concrete next step.

What You’ll Learn

• Find and reach out for informational interviews that actually lead to connections
• Identify and pursue job shadowing opportunities, including OSU’s Summer Job Shadow Program (applications close May 1st)
• Talk with recruiters confidently, what to say, what to ask, and how to make a strong first impression
• Prepare for career fairs: reviewing employers ahead of time, what to bring, and how to approach booths
• Navigate first-day jitters and communicate your goals professionally
• Learn how the Career Development Center and UESP can support you

What You’ll Do

• A brainstormed list of employers, people, and industries you want to reach out to
• A set of custom questions for informational interviews
• The framework for a simple “elevator pitch”
• Actionable plans for job shadowing local, virtual, or OSU‑supported
• Time with career staff and peers to turn your ideas into a concrete plan

Who You’ll Meet

• Career Development Center staff will offer tips, feedback, and hands-on help
• Peers trained in résumé and exploration support will be available during work time
• UESP Advisors will provide assistance with generating questions and developing your plan