You can accomplish both of these actions by attending job fairs, also known as career fairs, like the one March 18 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
Why Should I Bother With Career Fairs?

Asking to job shadow at a company where you were just turned down for a job might feel like you want to follow around an ex-boyfriend right after he dumped you. AWKWARD.
Free attendance for ISEEK’s Online Manufacturing Career Fair October 24-28, 2011
Sometimes to "be ourselves," we have to get inspired.
Here are three articles with tips for setting up and making the most of an informational interview.