The Spring Internship and Career Fair is coming to Illinois State University.
The fair brings in employers looking to work with students on professional development. Career Services Program Coordinator Rachel Janicki said this event is for anyone and everyone.
“Students in any major, class level or organization can benefit from attending this event. Employers will be seeking candidates from many majors for internships and full-time jobs,” Janicki said.
“Even if you’re not yet looking for a job, we still welcome you to attend the fair to meet employers, become familiar with the types of positions being offered and practice your networking skills,” Janicki continued.
Janicki said there are 81 employers registered to be at the event. This number could increase before the event, giving more opportunities to students. For those wondering what they can expect beforehand, there is an updated list here.
Students can further prepare for the event in several ways: reviewing the list of employers, dressing professionally and more.
Lexi Muoghalu, a Career Services representative, expanded on how students can prepare.
“To prepare for the internship fair, students should ensure their resumes are updated to reflect any new experience, involvement, awards, scholarships, etcetera,” Muoghalu said. “Having [five to] 10 printed copies of their resume is a good idea to hand out to any companies who students may take an interest in.”
Janicki explained exactly how ISU students can perfect their resumes beforehand.
“[Students can] get their resume reviewed by scheduling a career advising appointment through Hire-A-Redbird or stopping by for a drop-in resume review. Drop-in hours and additional information are available on the Resumes page of our website,” Janicki said.
It can be important to attend when the event starts or get there early. Last year’s Spring Internship and Career Fair saw an estimated 900 students. Even if students are not sure what they are looking for, the event can simply be practice.
“I would say even if [students] are unsure if a company is the right fit for them, it can’t hurt to go up and speak to the representatives present,” Muoghalu said.
“If anything, it can be an opportunity to get more comfortable speaking in that manner. Also, following up with the companies that do interest them is a good idea,” Muoghalu continued.
The event aims to be welcoming for all students, with dozens of professional opportunities. Janicki had advice for students planning to attend.
“I also recommend asking questions at any step, ask a friend or classmate who has attended a fair before if they have any tips, ask employers about their organizations and open positions or ask Career Services staff any career-related questions [at] any time,” Janicki said.
The fair will take place from 2-5 p.m. on Feb. 5 in the Bone Student Center.
Cole Loiacano is a news and features reporter for The Vidette. Loiacano can be contacted at clloiac@ilstu.edu.
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