We know that searching for jobs and internships can be a stressful process. The pressure only increases when you are searching for roles during a period of economic uncertainty. No matter the state of the economy, we encourage you to build your professional network by connecting with members of our alumni community. The University of Michigan network can be a powerful tool to leverage in your search.
In addition to exploring opportunities through your professional network and on job boards, like the industry specific sites on our External Job Sites page, you might consider alternative options during a period of economic uncertainty.
International students should always consult with the International Center to ensure compliance with relevant employment requirements based on their visa status.
The inclusion of an external resource does not represent endorsement of said resource by Taubman College or the University of Michigan.
Project-Based Work
The “gig economy” refers to income earned via freelance and short-term contract work. The following sites are specific to freelance and project-based work:
Volunteering
Working in a volunteer capacity can allow you to improve your skills and expand your professional network while you search for freelance work or full-time employment. International students can complete volunteer work (unpaid employment) on post-completion OPT. The following organizations provide relevant volunteer opportunities:
| Organization Name | Area of Focus |
| Habitat for Humanity | Construction |
| Life Remodeled | Construction, Community Engagement |
| U-M Edward Ginsberg Center | General |
| VolunteerMatch | General |
Industry-Related Work
Students and alumni may choose to take on work that is ‘adjacent’ to our industries. In some cases, students and alumni pursue these alternative career paths regardless of the state of the economy.
Some examples of industry-related work and employers include:
- Retail related to Construction and Interior Design – Home Depot, Lowe’s, IKEA, etc.
- Freelance or Full-Time Design – graphic design, UI or UX design, etc.
- Community Engagement – community organizing, campaigning, advocacy work, etc.