Skip to Main Content

Kaitlin McManus

Kaitlin McManus is Firsthand's Editor. She received her B.A. in English from Illinois Wesleyan University and her M.F.A. in Creative Writing from The New School. She has worked for a literary magazine and a publisher focused on nonfiction music titles. Now she writes career advice content for Firsthand’s Library (most notably for the undergrad blog) and creates many of the employer profiles featured on Firsthand.

Become a Contributor

Vault is always looking for job search and career experts to share their advice on our blog.

Pillars of a Great Internship Program, Part Three: Culture

by Kaitlin McManus | May 22, 2026

What makes a good internship? Let's ask the experts. Learn what top internship program leaders have to say about the importance of company culture for interns.

Pillars of a Great Internship Program, Part Two: Networking

by Kaitlin McManus | May 07, 2026

What makes a good internship? Let's ask the experts. Learn what top internship program leaders have to say about the importance of networking for interns.

Pillars of a Great Internship Program, Part One: Real-World Experience

by Kaitlin McManus | April 29, 2026

What makes a good internship? Let's find out. Learn what top internship program leaders have to say about the importance of real-world experience for interns.

How to Make a Lasting Impression at a Career Fair

by Kaitlin McManus | February 27, 2026

Check out our tips for standing out from the crowd at your college's career fair.

How to Prepare for a Career Fair

by Kaitlin McManus | February 24, 2026

Career fair season is upon us, so read on to learn how you can prep for the biggest career day on campus.

Is It Time to Go Analogue? 4 Tips for Unplugging, at Least for a Bit

by Kaitlin McManus | February 20, 2026

Screentime encroaching on your life? We've got some tips on how to bring it back down and re-engage with the real world.

What Is Skills-Based Hiring? An Overview for Students

by Kaitlin McManus | February 09, 2026

Skills-based hiring is a new phrase being used in the hiring world, but what does it actually mean? We give you an overview and practical advice on the process.

How to Nail a Cold Email Requesting an Informational Interview

by Kaitlin McManus | January 20, 2026

Cold emailing folks to network is a necessary task, but also a daunting one. We've got a few ideas for how to make the process both painless and successful.

Find a Mentor This National Mentoring Month

by Kaitlin McManus | January 12, 2026

January is National Mentoring Month. Mentors are an invaluable resource for job-seekers and those early in their careers. We've got tips on finding yours!