Although the Career Fair is quite a popular event, there are some people who refrain from going because they fall victim to certain myths about the Career Fair. Allow me to debunk some of those for you now...
Myth: It's not worth going if I'm not interested in engineering, finance or consulting jobs.
Fact: While it's is true that some of the companies at the Career Fair are included in the aforementioned fields (they the ones that are able to predict hiring needs in advance), there are still plenty of companies that may prove attractive to students with an interest in other areas, for example:
- Green Corps: trains organizers, provides field support for today's critical environmental campaigns, and graduates activists who possess the skills, temperament, and commitment to fight and win tomorrow's environmental battles (Organizers)
- United Planet: a leading international, education, humanitarian and peace building nonprofit organization devoted to fostering cross-cultural understanding and friendship, and supporting communities in need worldwide (International Coordinator)
- FBI: a law enforcement and domestic intelligence agency charged with protecting and defending the United States against terrorist and foreign intelligence threats; upholding and enforcing the criminal laws of the United States; and providing leadership and criminal justice services to federal, state, municipal, and international agencies and partners (Special Agents & various Professional Support positions including Intelligence Analysts and Financial Analysts)
- WorldTeach Inc: a non-profit, non-governmental organization which provides opportunities for individuals to make a meaningful contribution to international education by living and working as volunteer teachers in developing countries throughout Asia, Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe (Volunteer Teacher)
- Public Conversations Project: an award-winning nonprofit organization that guides, trains, and inspires individuals, organizations, and communities to constructively address conflicts relating to values and world views (General & Communications Internships)
Fact: While it is a good idea to bring along your resume, it is certainly not necessary. Some students go into the Career Fair hoping to land a job. Others go just to ask questions and see what's out there. Either route is fine. Employers realize that everyone is coming in with a different level of preparedness, eagerness, etc. They are happy to talk with you (and some even have cool little giveaways...just saying). At the very least, be sure to grab the business card of everyone you talk to. That way, you can research the company later on and get back in touch with them should you feel inclined to either apply for a job or request an informational interview.
Myth: There's no point in going to the Career Fair. Getting a job right out of college is not for me. I'm Eurotripping to find myself, man.
Fact: Going to the Career Fair does not mean you're obligated to apply for a job. As mentioned before, students come in with various intentions. Some want a job, some want to ask questions, some just want to experience what a Career Fair is like. The Fair is what you make of it. When it comes down to it, why not go? It's a chance to hone your conversational skills, make valuable connections, and practice wearing the slightly uncomfortable business attire that will soon become your everyday look (PJ bottoms don't usually cut it in the workplace). Just go in with an open mind...you may be surprised at what you find.
Last notes:
- Read more about companies that will be at the Career Fair in the Career Fair Guide
- Attend "Prepare for the Fair" TONIGHT (Wed, Sept 30), 6-7pm, Dowling Hall, Room 745. Get tips from Jessica Bushell from Osram Sylvania on how to make the most of the Career Fair
- Get your resume critiqued prior to the fair - attend the final Resume Critique Night (3-7pm, TONIGHT - Wed, Sept 30). Bring a paper copy of your resume; no appointments needed for Resume Critique Nights. If you can't make it, check out the Career Services resume tips and samples online.
