External Internships & Experiential Learning Opportunities

WashU students are encouraged to pursue experiential learning during their time here. WashU Schools and Departments have many internship and research opportunities that you can learn about here. You can also find external opportunities via the resources below:

Internship Databases: Handshake and 12twenty@WashU

Handshake and 12twenty@WashU (for Olin MBA students) are the Center for Career Engagement’s online databases of jobs and internships. Unlike public job search databases, many positions in Handshake and 12twenty@WashU are posted as the result of relationships we’ve cultivated with employers from a variety of industries – from finance to arts – who are interested in WashU students. Search the Experiential Learning Opportunities collection in Handshake to browse internships, fellowships, and co-ops.

Work Simulators: Forage

Virtual work simulations, offered through Forage, are a great way to build your skills and your resume, and explore what it’s like to work in different industries. Simulations are an opportunity to do entry-level work that you would do at a particular company. These projects are put together and managed my real companies including Deloitte, GE, JP Morgan, BCG, Engineers Without Borders and more.

Forage virtual work simulations are free, open to all WashU students, unpaid and self-paced (typically taking 5-6 hours per simulator)

When completed, you will have gained practical work skills that employers want to see and a certificate to put on your resume or LinkedIn profile. Some firms may invite students who have completed their virtual work simulation to exclusive online and in-office events. Get started with simulations aligned with one of our Career Communities, or search all of Forage.

Micro-Internships: Parker Dewey

Micro-Internships are facilitated via the Parker Dewey platform, connecting you with organizations in need of your skills. On Parker Dewey you can apply for short-term, paid, remote, professional micro-internships. These unique projects are posted at all times of year by companies of all sizes, from Fortune 100 corporations to emerging startups.

Other Places to Search

  • Online Job Boards: Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn
  • Company Websites
  • Networking: Leverage your personal and professional networks (including WashU faculty and staff) to inquire about internship opportunities. Attend career fairs, industry events, and networking functions. Networking can often lead to hidden or unadvertised opportunities.
  • Professional Associations: Explore professional associations related to your field of interest. Some companies post internship opportunities on their social media pages.
  • Social Media: Follow companies, organizations, and job boards on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
  • Government and Nonprofit Programs: Check for internship programs offered by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research institutions. These entities often have structured internship programs.
  • Some cities or regions have job placement services that connect students with local businesses and organizations offering internships. Check with local workforce development agencies or community organizations.