Information for Students of Color
As a person of color, you may face unique challenges as you search for opportunities and navigate the professional world. Career Services is committed to supporting students of color throughout their career exploration and professional development process. We are proud to partner with Greenfield Intercultural Center (GIC), La Casa Latina, PAACH, and Makuu to provide targeted resources for students of color. We encourage students to explore our resources to learn more about programs available to specific populations.
Search for Opportunities
Many organizations are interested in recruiting students from diverse backgrounds and cultural experiences. Career Services has created a running list of diversity recruitment programs that you may be interested in. In addition, to find other organizations and/or opportunities via Handshake, Penn Career Services website, and other job boards, there are specific keywords you can use to enhance your search. Read more about searching for a job or internship.
Try searching for the following keywords:
- Your identity (e.g. Black, Latinx/Hispanic, Asian American, Indigenous/Native etc.)
- Identity specific programs will often contain the terms/phrases “people/students of color strongly encouraged”, “diversity”, “underrepresented”, “minority”.
Make Connections
Networking is simply talking and building relationships with professionals in careers that interest you to help you learn what it’s like to work in a particular role, field, or industry. In addition to Penn’s alumni resources and resource/cultural centers, there are a variety of other professional associations that you may find of interest. Read more about how to make connections.
Explore Resources
Career Services offers a number of guides related to job searching, interviewing, negotiation and career development. As you investigate various industries, take advantage of opportunities to explore recruitment options promoting diversity and inclusion. Some companies offer pipeline programs or information sessions with current employees. Read more about our guides and resources.
