As an IST student, you’ll share many classroom projects and experiences with your peers. But how will you stand out in the competitive recruiting process? Beyond maintaining a strong GPA, what can you do to differentiate yourself? Here are some ways you can develop marketable skills and set yourself apart.
Get involved!
While strong GPAs matter, being an engaged student shows organization, attention to detail, and time management. Here are some ideas to enhance your skills:
- Participate in hackathons. HackPSU is Penn State’s largest student-run hackathon, offering exposure and recognition from sponsoring companies with minimal time commitment.
- Join experiential programs. Attend corporate office visits, conferences, and off-campus activities. Be sure to show up for all registered opportunities.
- Get involved in student organizations. Enhance networking, leadership skills, and build lasting relationships.
- Explore "gig" or contract work. Micro-internships give you practical experience, often paid. Explore opportunities on the Parker Dewey website.
- Work on Alumni Projects. Use LionLink to find alumni projects to gain skills and expand your network.
Lifelong Learning
Your undergraduate degree is just the start of your professional development. Continue learning with:
- LinkedIn Learning. Access courses and earn badges that can be shared on your LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn Learning offers an extensive library to help build your skills.
- Certifications and Digital Badges. Earn recognized credentials that validate your achievements. Start with the IT Certification Roadmap.
- The Forage. Use The Forage to complete real-world projects in fields like consulting, software development, and data analytics, gaining insights and connections with top companies.
Join a Professional Organization
Joining professional organizations helps you expand your network and learn industry best practices. Some valuable groups include:
- SIMposium. Networking for IT leadership.
- Association for Computing Machinery. The world’s largest computing society.
- IEEE Computer Society. Technical resources for computing professionals.
- Association of Information Technology Professionals. Opportunities for IT leadership and education through partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
- Women in Technology International. Helping tech-savvy women attain their professional goals.
- Information Systems Security Association. International organization of information security professionals and practitioners.
