As students continue to plan for the Summer 2026, the USC Career Center encourages all students, especially first and second year students, to tap into the hidden job market.
Many options are never posted online, so being proactive and letting others know you’re searching can open unexpected doors.
Here are five ways to explore the hidden job and internship market:
1. Connect with Faculty:
- Ask what past students in your major or field have done during their first or second years
- Learn more about the faculty member’s research or industry experience
- Request introductions to industry contacts to expand your network and access additional opportunities
2. Reach out to Alumni through USC’s Trojan Network or LinkedIn:
- Hear directly from professionals in a similar career path
- Gain advice on how to make the most of your time in college or strategies to break into the industry
- Ask questions and receive feedback from someone who recently navigated the same process
Access the Trojan Network, USC’s exclusive professional networking and mentorship platform.
3. Leverage your Hometown Network:
- Talk with family, neighbors, former teachers and local professionals
- Explore opportunities with small businesses, startups, nonprofits, or community organizations
- Ask about shadowing, flexible project-based work, or short-term hiring needs
4. Use Spring Break Strategically:
- Visit or call businesses or organizations
- Ask to speak with their hiring manager about Summer 2026 roles
- Inquire about interest in learning more about their work and contributing to their team
5. Create Your Own Opportunity:
- Propose a short-term project (2 – 3 months) that aligns with organizational priorities
- Apply your skills (communication, teamwork, research, technology or problem solving) in an impactful way, gaining real world experience
- Offer to contribute by launching a new initiative, improving processes, enhancing social media presence, expanding outreach efforts or conducting research and data analysis to inform decision-making
Looking to further strategize your job/internship search?
Meet with one of our advisors for a 30-minute advising session to get personalized support. Schedule an appointment on Handshake.
