Find experience
Look for internships, first jobs and projects that help you put your skills to work.
Explore opportunities →STUDENTS & RECENT GRADUATES
Your next chapter.
Start connected.
Find your way from college to the working world. Explore employers, mentors, internships and practical experience across Northwest Arkansas.
Still deciding what you want to do? Start with your interests. Recent graduates are welcome.
WHAT WOULD HELP RIGHT NOW?
Choose your next step.
FROM INTEREST TO INTRODUCTION
A clear way to get started.
Share a little about yourself
Add your school or program, interests, skills and what would help most.
We review the fit
ConnectNWA reviews your goals against relevant people, opportunities and resources.
Take the next step
We ask permission before making introductions. You can explore public resources while we review your profile.
Submitting a profile does not guarantee a job, internship or mentor match. You can explore the public resources on this page without a paid membership.
RIGHT HERE IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
People and places that can help.
Start with one or two resources that fit your goal. These are independent organizations; eligibility, deadlines and availability vary.
Career guidance
University of Arkansas Career Connections
Résumé reviews, interview preparation, career exploration and employer events for students and alumni.
Explore career support ↗College connections
NWACC Career Services
Employment resources, employer events and information about short, paid micro-internships.
Explore NWACC resources ↗Paid startup experience
Venture Internships & Startup Intern Match
Programs for eligible U of A and NWACC students. The listed spring deadline was October 12, 2026; ask about the next application window.
Check program eligibility ↗Regional employers
CareersNWA
Explore Northwest Arkansas careers and use its Talent Network to share your background with regional employers.
Explore regional careers ↗Professional relationships
NWA Emerging Leaders
Leadership development and networking for young professionals. Check student eligibility and upcoming activities.
Meet the local network ↗Business ideas
Startup Junkie
No-cost consulting, programs and events for people exploring entrepreneurship in Northwest Arkansas.
Explore entrepreneurship ↗Meet local businesses
Chamber Fayetteville
Networking events to help you meet professionals across industries. Check registration, guest eligibility and cost.
Find a networking event ↗Recent graduate experience
Camp War Eagle
Year-long internship experiences for recent graduates interested in youth development and community work. Review current openings and terms.
Explore graduate internships ↗Resource information reviewed October 20, 2026. Confirm current program details with the organization.
A PRACTICAL FIRST STEP
What do you say when you reach out?
Get sample outreach messages, questions to ask a mentor and a guide to making your first professional connections.
Read: Your Career Starts With a Connection →