Career Services
Career Services Resources
Explore the latest job search techniques and gain support for a successful job search.
- Worksheets, strategies, and free coaching for students and alumni to help you get started in your job search and refine your presentation.
- Polish up your resumé, practice your networking skills, and learn about LinkedIn, personal branding, and diversity centers.
- Discover new job opportunities & job fairs.
It’s never too early to get started and see what’s out there for you.
Meet up with Michael for career advising
If you are a current student or alumni of UCSC Extension, we welcome your career-related questions.
Set up your appointment with Michael Carmine, career engagement specialist.
- Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30–7 p.m. The last appointment is at 6:30 p.m.
- Appointments are only available to book two weeks out.
- If no appointments are available, keep checking back!
Topics you can cover in a 15-30-minute meeting
- Resumes
- LinkedIn Profiles
- Job Interviewing
- Job Search
- Networking
- Career Changes
- Career Success for International Students
- General Career Advising
Career fairs • events • webinars
Multiple virtual career fairs happen every month for Silicon Valley jobs!
The UC Santa Cruz Alumni Events page and the University of California Alumni Career Network also have some helpful networking events and career advice.
Navigating the Applicant Tracking System for Your Resume
Learn how applicant tracking systems (ATS) are used to scan your resumes. You'll gain tips on how to navigate it properly so employers can review your skills. (July 19, 2023)
Tips to Prepare for a Successful Interview
Learn best practices to prepare for your interview from Michael Carmine, career engagement specialist at UCSC Silicon Valley Extension. (July 19, 2023)
Best Practices for Building Your Resume
Learn best practices to build your resume with Michael Carmine, career engagement specialist at UCSC Silicon Valley Extension. (July 19, 2023)
Research your job options
The Employment Development Department (EDD) provides a comprehensive range of employment and training services in partnership with state and local agencies and organizations. Visit the EDD website for everything from job search tools to labor market information in individual counties and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for information on the job outlook.
RESUME WRITING
A resume summarizes your career readiness skills, education, and experiences with the intent of convincing an employer to invite you for an interview.
COVER LETTER
A cover letter is a three- to four-paragraph personalized note to an employer that helps your application stand out from the others
INTERVIEW WORKSHEET
If you’re unsure about your career goals or feel that you lack knowledge to pursue the career you want, informational interviewing is for you
INTERVIEW GUIDE
Tell me about yourself. What unique qualities would you bring to the job? What are your strengths? Weaknesses? What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
NEGOTIATING SALARY
Negotiating salary can be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be. Being aware of salary options shows you are fully aware of the job you are applying for.
LINKEDIN GUIDE
People with complete profiles are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn.
NETWORKING GUIDE
Only 10-20 percent of jobs are advertised to the public. Networking remains the No. 1 job search strategy
DIVERSITY JOB SITES
Diversity is critical for a strong workforce. Learn more about resources for students of color, women, students with disabilities, veterans, international students, and LGBTQ+ students.
CAREER FAIR GUIDE
Realize that your first job is just that; your first job. It may not be your dream job, but it can serve as a stepping stone to a brighter career path. The hardest job you will ever have is finding the right job.