Coffee Chats & Office Hours

Joining coffee chats/office hours is a great way to demonstrate your interest in an organization and make connections. During the chats, it’s a good idea to ask any questions you have about the recruiting, application, and interview process. The format is usually a one-on-one or a small group conversation that lasts somewhere between 10-30 minutes. Students should bring their resume in case there is an opportunity for feedback. The chats typically take place at a local cafe in Harvard Square, but they can also take place virtually or elsewhere in the Boston/Cambridge area. Representatives are often recent alumni who have been in your shoes, which makes them more approachable and likely to have relevant insights and advice. Ask for a business card or to connect via LinkedIn to follow up, as alums often become your best source of “insider information” to navigate the hiring process. You can also reference people you meet during coffee chats in your cover letter or application materials, which reaffirms your interest in the position and the organization.