PENN STATE career-related services:
Nittany Lion Careers
This service is available 24/7 and allows students and alumni to upload resumes to our website and search for a variety of jobs and internships. In addition, employers can post jobs and internship opportunities and review resumes on the website. More than 11,000 registered employers use this site.
Students can activate their account by visiting Nittany Lion Careers, and following the prompts for student log in.
LionLink
LionLink is a professional networking program that links Penn State students and alumni with alumni volunteer Career Coaches. Career Coaches provide valuable information and advice on jobs and careers to Career Explorers, who are alumni or students looking for a job or seeking career-related information.
Job Fairs and Career Events
Penn State University-wide Career Fairs and Events
Career Readiness
Prepare for an Interview
Interviews can feel stressful, but preparing ahead of time can help you feel more confident and ready to talk about your skills and experience. Career Services can help you practice, prepare your answers, and learn what to expect before you meet with an employer.
Many interviews include questions about your background, experience, and interest in the position. Practice answering questions such as:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why are you interested in this position?
- What are your strengths?
- Tell me about a challenge you faced and how you handled it.
- Describe a time you worked as part of a team.
- Why should we hire you?
- Where do you see yourself in the future?
Think about specific examples from your classes, work experience, internships, student organizations, volunteer activities, or other experiences. These examples can help you show an employer what you can do
Use the STAR Method
Behavioral interview questions often ask you to describe a specific situation or experience. The STAR method can help you organize your response.
- Situation: Describe the situation or challenge you faced.
- Task: Explain your responsibility or goal.
- Action: Describe what you did.
- Result: Share the outcome and what you learned.
You don't have to follow the STAR method word-for-word. Use it as a guide to make sure your answer includes enough detail and clearly shows your role.
Before the Interview
A little preparation can make a big difference. Before your interview:
- Research the organization and the position.
- Review the job description and identify skills the employer is looking for.
- Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer.
- Practice answering common questions out loud.
- Choose appropriate professional attire.
- Confirm the interview time, location, or virtual meeting details.
- Bring a copy of your résumé and any other requested materials.
During the Interview
Remember that an interview is a conversation. Listen carefully to each question and take a moment to think before answering. Be honest, be yourself, and use specific examples when you can.
It's also okay to ask an interviewer to repeat or clarify a question if you're not sure what they are asking.