Handshake is our career development resource. To find career resources, information and opportunities, as well as the materials listed below, please visit your Handshake account. 

  • Career information
  • Resumes and letters
  • Interviewing and networking
  • Experiential education: Co-ops and internships
  • Job searches and negotiations
  • Graduate school information
  • Events and  workshop information

The Career Center is the perfect place to start a career search. Whether you’re a first-year student or you’re a senior getting ready for that next step, our staff will work directly with you to create an individualized plan to meet your career objectives. We will provide the linkages, support and resources needed to make your career exploration, preparation, internship/co-op or employment search successful. To arrange a time to discuss your specific needs, please visit the Career Center on the second floor of the Educational Resources Center (ERC) or call 315-268-6477.

Co-ops & Internships

Real-world experience is at the heart of a Clarkson education. In fact, Clarkson University students are required to complete a professional experience before they graduate. The Career Center has the resources to help you find an internship (semester or summer) or co-op that fits your interests and career goals.

What is a Co-op?

A co-op, short for "cooperative education," is a paid position with a company for a full academic semester and often the summer. Students on co-op do not usually take classes during their time away from campus. Co-ops offer several advantages over internships. Since co-ops are longer than most internships, you can take on greater responsibilities and get a better real-world feel for the job. Many companies use co-ops as a six-month "interview" for a full-time position after graduation.

What is an Internship?

An internship is another great way to get an inside look at a future career. It is a summer-only position that usually lasts between eight and 12 weeks. Responsibilities vary greatly with each company, but you’ll leave with real-world experience and a solid reference on your resume.

Parents

Welcome to the Career Center and International Studies Office! We understand that you will have many questions surrounding co-ops, internships and full-time opportunities. We at the Career Center take an active approach through our case management model to assist students in obtaining their career-related goals.

The entire career process, from determining an academic major to managing a job search, is often an overwhelming process for students and parents. Therefore, we encourage you to contact our office with questions and/or concerns, and we look forward to sharing Career Center initiatives with you.

Below are two guides that provide information for parents and students. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 315-268-6477. We look forward to working with your Clarkson University student!

Parents' Guide to Clarkson

Freshman Guide to Clarkson