EIU Media Relations

EIU using Handshake to connect students, regional partners

Digital tool assists in virtualizing internship, job opportunities that fulfill community needs

(Charleston, IL) – Eastern Illinois University’s Career Services Department is using Handshake—a website and online tool—to connect regional businesses and organizations with ambitious and productive EIU students and graduates with internships and job opportunities across Central Illinois.

“What makes Handshake so valuable is that so many services are available in one product, saving our students and our employers valuable time,” said Bobbi Kingery, Director of Career Services at EIU. “Handshake is currently the top-ranked platform for colleges and universities. Its ability to connect students and employers locally and across the country makes it an excellent fit for all.” 

Handshake provides students with early access to EIU’s Career Services resources, including the ability to request appointments for assistance with major and career exploration, resume writing, and more. Students also can register for workshops, events or career fairs by completing their Handshake profiles and accessing internship and job opportunities on campus and in the EIU community. Potential employers can message students and graduates directly, allowing local companies to connect with EIU students to discuss or negotiate opportunities.

Students and local companies can join Handshake by following the instructions at go.eiu.edu/handshake. Once signed up and logged in, students and companies can complete their profile. Students with complete Handshake profiles are five times more likely to be contacted by employers.

EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, or any of EIU’s other community-based services and opportunities, visit eiu.edu or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.