Taking on the career fair as an undergrad: Tips from a pro and a student
Business pre-major Lauren Vandertoolen chatted with Dana Sowby, director of the Undergraduate Career Management Center, to talk about the upcoming career fair on campus, and what students should be doing now to get ready for their summer internships and jobs.
Here what Lauren’s learned from talking to Dana, and attending a career fair prep session:
The Career Fair is swiftly approaching and for business students in particular, this is a key event to the end goal each is hoping to obtain: finding that perfect career. I sat down with Dana Sowby with the Undergraduate Career Management Center to find out exactly what students should do to prepare, and what to expect from the 2014 Spring Career Fair, being held in the Union Ballroom from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on February 4.
What is most important for students to do to prepare for the Career Fair?
Dana explained that prep workshops are key to obtaining confidence and positive first impressions. Having an idea of specific companies you want to talk to is extremely important. It is rare that a student will have enough time the day of the fair to visit with every employer, so identifying key companies is crucial. Another important aspect to remember is to come appropriately dressed and ready to introduce yourself. Have your elevator speech polished and a resumé ready to go. This week in the lobby of the David Eccles School of Business there are counselors available to go over both your resumé and elevator speech, no appointment needed.
Why should ALL students (especially freshmen) attend the Career Fair?
This is a perfect opportunity for freshman to explore, narrow down, and pick a major. There are so many options for students, and the career fair can be so helpful in narrowing down what they ultimately want to do after college.
The fair is also a great opportunity for networking. By coming as a freshman or sophomore, students can establish relationships with potential employers and have the opportunity to see them multiple times, and make themselves memorable. In addition to networking, it is a wonderful opportunity for students to practice being professional and developing key skills for finding jobs.
Can students still find summer internships?
Right now is the BEST time for students to work on finding internships. Local internships may not post until March or April, but there are already postings for national internships. It is important for students to make time for internships throughout their college years. This will allow better preparation for full-time positions, and give you a direct line to these careers. A high GPA is also not necessarily required for these internships. A 3.0 will get you in the door.
How can students apply for these internships?
Online:
In CIS, click on UCareerLink, on the CareerLink Website there is a “Find a Job” tab, and a drop-down menu with the option “Student Jobs & Internships.”
Career Fair:
Bring your resumé to the career fair, revised and full of action words. A lot of companies attending the fair will be offering paid summer internships.
For a full list of employers attending the fair, click here.
In your opinion, what is the most under-used resource at the Undergraduate Career Management Center?
Appointments, Sowby said. The Career Center is not running out of appointments, meaning that every student is not utilizing the opportunity to talk with counselors about career options. These counselors are always available for discussions. Students need to be intentional about their careers and appointments are a great way to verbalize your intentions.
After meeting with Dana, I felt so inspired and excited to attend the career fair and decided to attend a prep workshop myself. Held by the Career Ambassadors, this workshop informed students of everything they need to know before the fair. Some key takeaway items from this workshop were:
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Remember, as much as you want a job at the career fair, employers are paying to be there and they want YOU.
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Identify the top 10 companies you want to meet with and research these companies. Knowing their mission statement and values can set you apart in your elevator pitch.
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Bring more than 10 copies of your resumé to share with employers.
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Make sure you use front/back printing, it should never be 2 pages
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Never use a template, they look unprofessional, can be hard to read, and are obvious to employers.
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If you’re particularly interested in one company, tailor your resumé to that company’s values, interests, and industry.
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Keep in mind that first impressions are crucial!
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Practice your elevator pitch beforehand (the ambassadors are great to pitch to and will be at the fair for that reason!)
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Try ending your pitch in a question such as “What opportunities do you have for me?”
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Dress to impress! Guys: suit, shirt & tie, err on the side of overdressing. Girls: skirt or dress, and depending on the job you’re looking for, dress more conservatively, avoiding bright colors and patterns.
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Do bring your U Card, don’t bring a backpack or bag.
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Bring a portfolio, notepad, and pens to take notes after each meeting.
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Follow-up effectively and quickly (within 24 hrs) with those employers you are most interested in!
Being prepared for the career fair is crucial to your success. Prep workshops are continuing throughout the week, as well as resumé /elevator pitch workshops. Take advantage of these opportunities and you are sure to obtain a great internship or job from the fair!