Recently Asked Questions

You've got questions, we've got answers!

How are you conducting Career Coaching appointments this Fall?

Career coaching appointment which will be conducted virtually, Monday through Friday, via Zoom or Teams. Click Schedule Appointment to book your next appointment.

What are jobs like now, and when should I start applying?

While some jobs and experiential learning opportunities will take place in the traditional in-person format, many employers are now offering: 

1. Virtual jobs & internships: performed fully virtual/remote 

1. Hybrid jobs & internships: some virtual and some in-person workdays  

1. Micro-projects: short-term, project-based assignments (often done virtually) 

1. Short training programs, seminars, and conferences 

1. Virtual competitions and Hackathons 

Different types of experiential learning opportunities can be found on Handshake, Lockin China, and CareerShift -- free resources accessible to all Seattle U students. The best time to apply depends on the industry or type of employer for which you want to intern or work.  

Is it difficult to find a job right now?

Hiring projections are positive! Re-opened businesses, new hiring needs, and increased vaccination rates have increased job and internship opportunities. There are thousands of active job/internship postings specifically for Seattle U students and alumni in Handshake at any given time. Many employers are expected to attend the virtual career fairs we have scheduled throughout the year. Visit the Events page on Handshake for details on how to register for and attend upcoming hiring events. 

Can an employer make me get vaccinated against COVID-19?

Federal laws do not prevent an employer from requiring workers to be vaccinated. However, federal laws may require an employer to provide reasonable accommodations for employees who, because of disability or religious belief, are not vaccinated. 

What will interactions with employers be like this fall?

Overwhelmingly, employers will maintain virtual recruiting activities and career fairs. Additionally, we anticipate: 

• Virtual interviewing and onboarding processes 
• Increased telework/remote positions, either fully virtual or in the office only part-time 
• Use of more emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robots, and machine learning in all types of jobs 
• Flexible schedules to promote healthier work-life integration 

Questions to ask to better understand employer expectations around remote work

• What does flexibility mean to this company? 
• Do employees pick their hours/location and stay consistent with them? Or does everyone have the option to work different hours/locations each day? 
• How do meetings/collaborative projects work if everyone’s on different schedules? 
• When working virtually, what kind of connection will I have with my supervisor/colleagues? 

When is the next Career & Internship Fair?

Tuesday, October 12th 2021 10:30 am - 1:30 pm PDT

Student Registration: You must register ahead to fully participate and meet with employers.

Resources: 

The 3 Must-Haves On Your Handshake Profile

Rock Your Handshake Career Fair

I didn't do an internship this year. How else can I gain experience?

Professional formation at Seattle University happens in many ways. In addition to doing an internship, you can gain experience through volunteering, part-time jobs on and off-campus, side hustles, and even hobbies. Research papers/projects you do for class are also great career skill-building experiences if you are strategic: 

• Pick a topic that others are interested in as well 
• Interview alumni/experts in the field to expand your network within organizations of interest 
• Use the tools, technologies, and approaches to build technical (industry-specific) skills 
• Get feedback on transferrable skills of teamwork/leadership, problem solving, critical thinking 

• Use final papers/projects as examples for job applications, post them on LinkedIn or in your portfolio to build your brand, apply to present at conferences, etc. 

What skills should I focus on developing now? What do employers want?

Employers always want communication (especially important right now), digital technology (including various teleworking platforms), adaptability, and work-ethic for working remotely.  

Can I still apply for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

Yes. Please contact your immigration advisor at the ISC to coordinate an appointment and we will support you in filing your application.