Nashville, TN, September 5, 2025
In Nashville’s fast-moving job market, APSU alumni connections give students and visitors a clear advantage. This guide explains how to leverage APSU Career Services, Handshake, LinkedIn and alumni events to secure internships and local jobs. It covers practical steps—resume reviews, mock interviews, informational interviews, volunteering at campus events, and timely follow-up—to turn campus ties into real opportunities across Nashville’s key industries like music tech, healthcare, hospitality and startups. Visitors should plan around alumni meetups and career fairs, be concise in outreach, and stay consistent with online and in-person networking.
Hot Tip for Nashville Job Hunters: Tap the APSU Alumni Network Like a Local!
In a town that moves fast—where music, health care, startups, and hospitality collide—getting a foot in the door often comes down to who knows you. If you studied at Austin Peay State University or you’re visiting Nashville and want to connect with its working scene, you’ve got a hidden advantage sitting right under your nose: the APSU alumni network. This is a friendly, no-fuss guide for Nashvillians and visitors who want to turn campus ties into real internships and jobs around town.
Why the APSU alumni network matters in Nashville
Nashville is small enough that relationships matter and big enough that opportunities show up every day. Alumni networks cut through the noise. Think of them as a warm handshake delivered digitally and in person—people who share a common background and are often happy to help. Use these networks smartly and you’ll see quicker callbacks, warmer informational chats, and more meaningful leads.
Practical ways to use APSU resources around town
Make the basics count. Tap Career Services for resume checks and interview practice. Their workshops—like resume clinics and mock interviews—are designed to make you more hireable. Use the Virtual Career Center for job-hunting strategies when you’re on the move or visiting Nashville.
If you want direct job leads, the Handshake platform is a must. Employers post internships and jobs meant for APSU students and grads, and those roles often lead to in-person interviews in Nashville. While you’re browsing, have your resume optimized by career advisors so you apply like a pro.
Network like a pro — both online and on Broadway
Get fast results by connecting with APSU alumni on LinkedIn. Look up alumni in the Nashville area and send a short, tailored message explaining you’re exploring internships or local job options. Follow APSU alumni groups on social platforms and join conversations—this is where part-time gigs and openings pop up first.
Don’t ignore in-person opportunities either. Attend alumni mixers, networking events, and APSU career fairs when you’re in town. If an APSU career event mentions a Govs Go Pro or a career fair, treat it like a backstage pass: recruiters show up looking for grads who know their stuff.
Make informational interviews and volunteering work for you
Ask alumni for informational interviews and show up with questions, not expectations. These chats are gold for learning what day-to-day work is like in local industries—music tech, hospitality, healthcare, education, and startups are strong here. Volunteering at APSU events gives you face time with people who hire, volunteer coordinators, and fellow alumni—use it to demonstrate commitment and grow relevant connections.
Lean on services that move the needle
Use APSU’s resume review and mock interview services to sharpen your pitch before meeting employers in Nashville. Attend practical workshops like Internships 101 and career labs that include modern job search tactics, including how AI can help your search. Also, know the no-show policy at career events—showing up (or canceling properly) affects your reputation.
Tips for visitors: network with intent when you’re in town
Visiting Nashville for a job search or conference? Plan around APSU events or alumni meetups. Book quick informational meetings with alumni working in the neighborhoods you’ll visit. Bring business cards or digital contact info, and follow up within 24–48 hours to keep momentum. Nashville folks appreciate authenticity—be friendly, direct, and grateful.
Final word — keep it consistent
The most successful job hunters don’t rely on a single event. They combine online platforms, alumni directories, career services, and repeated in-person touchpoints. Use APSU’s suite of resources and stay active: networking is a long game in Nashville, and steady effort pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How can visiting Nashville students use APSU alumni resources while in town?
A1: Check APSU’s online platforms for local events, schedule informational meetings with Nashville-based alumni, and attend any open career fairs or workshops. Use Handshake to find internships and roles that target APSU alumni.
Q2: What’s the quickest way to find APSU alumni working in Nashville?
A2: Search LinkedIn for Austin Peay State University alumni in Nashville, then send concise, personal connection messages. Also use the APSU alumni directory if available.
Q3: Are APSU career services helpful for people not currently enrolled?
A3: Yes, many alumni can access career services like resume reviews, mock interviews, and virtual resources—check APSU policies for alumni access and availability for visitors.
Q4: What should I bring to an APSU career fair in Nashville?
A4: Bring a polished resume, a quick elevator pitch, and a list of companies you want to target. Dress neatly, arrive early, and follow up promptly with any contacts you make.
Q5: How do I ask alumni for informational interviews without being pushy?
A5: Be concise and respectful. Introduce yourself, state you’re an APSU alum or visiting student, explain what you’re hoping to learn, and offer a quick 15–20 minute time slot either in person or virtually.
Quick Visual Guide: Key Features of Using the APSU Network in Nashville
| Resource | Ease of Access | Impact on Job Prospects |
|---|---|---|
| Handshake |
Very Easy
|
High
|
| Career Services Workshops |
Moderate
|
Moderate
|
| Alumni Events & Mixers |
Requires Planning
|
Very High
|
| LinkedIn & Alumni Directory |
Easy
|
High
|
Want that Nashville edge? Use APSU connections as part of a steady plan—online, in-person, and with good follow-up—and you’ll be making local moves before you know it.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Lipscomb University Nashville internships: how to land local internships that actually lead to jobs
How to find scholarships for Austin Peay Nashville: step-by-step
Author: HERE Nashville
The NASHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENashville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Nashville, Davidson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as CMA Fest, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, and Nashville Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Nashville Health Care Council, plus leading businesses in healthcare, automotive, and technology that power the local economy such as HCA Healthcare, Bridgestone Americas, and Asurion. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HEREMemphis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
