Level up your campus placement: Lessons beyond the resume

Into the madness: Placement season unplugged

As placement season draws near, you find yourself deep in the digital maze—scrolling through blogs, watching videos, and searching for a clear path ahead. The anticipation builds as admission announcements draw near, and you replay every interview in your mind, reflecting on what went well and where you could improve. Sleep schedules may shift, but you still show up for lectures, fueled by determination (and maybe hunger). Mock interviews with seniors offer valuable feedback and help you build resilience. With placements on the horizon, landing that internship feels like the first domino in a chain: pre-placement offers, earning your degree, repaying loans, and dreams of annual adventures abroad.

Not everything on your resume tells the full story

Everyone’s faced the challenge of fitting a lifetime of achievements into a single page. As my 10th grade history teacher said, “First impressions may not be the last, but they are certainly lasting.” Your resume is your opening handshake—make it count. Placement committee templates offer structure, but they may feel limiting when your priorities differ. The trick? Highlight your certain impactful experiences, even within the guidelines.

Think of your resume as your personal landing page—you don’t need to include every detail. Save some stories for the interview, but make sure the information you share stands out. Use specific numbers and examples: “Increased sales by 30% through targeted outreach” says far more than “helped increase sales.”

Keep your hands on the wheel

Artificial intelligence, especially generative tools, can be a powerful resource available at your fingertips. Use it to research industries, practice interviews, or review your resume—a few smart moves. But remember, context is key. Avoid adding keywords or copying AI-generated answers without understanding them. Authenticity and thoughtful preparation will consistently stand out in interviews.

Like the essence of the role, but some of the keywords are going right off your head. AI can be your best friend to demystify.

Today’s evaluations are more dynamic than ever—simulations, video essays, panel interviews, and more. AI brings new opportunities and challenges, but at the end of the day, evaluators are looking for substance behind the style.

Interviews: A two-way conversation

Interviews are more than tests—they’re opportunities for meaningful conversation. Some interviewers will deep-dive into your resume, others will look for qualities that go beyond what’s written. All are seeking evidence of consistent, reliable behaviors. Take a moment to reflect: What strengths do you want to spotlight? Does your resume show how you thrive under pressure, or do you need to think back to experiences that did?

For virtual interviews, set the stage—configure your background to reflect your personality if the platform allows, dress to feel confident, and reduce distractions. Active listening and genuine engagement go a long way.

Crossing the finish line: What’s next?

Congratulations! Whether through an internship or final placement, you’ve achieved a major milestone. The celebrations are well-deserved, but soon it’s time to look ahead. Revisit the job description, connect with alumni, and prepare for what’s next. Choose electives and certifications that align with your future goals—they’ll pay off in the long run.

Remember, your journey is yours to shape. Take ownership, keep learning, and stay adaptable. Each step brings new opportunities—approach them with confidence and curiosity.