The Class of 2025 is facing a more challenging job market than in recent years. According to a National Association of Colleges and Employers‘ student survey, 2025 graduates started their job search earlier – 6.4 months before graduation compared to six months for the Class of 2024 – and submitted more applications, yet received fewer job offers.
The University of Virginia’s Spring Job and Internship Career Fair offers students a prime opportunity to connect with employers across all industries. The two-day event will take place Wednesday and Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, in the Newcomb Hall Ballroom.
Day 1 features organizations hiring in business, finance, consulting, communications, data analytics and technology, while Day 2 showcases employers recruiting for engineering, computer science, biotechnology and environmental science.
Students can register and explore the employers attending the fair through Handshake.
UVA Today turned to Michelle Ball, the Career Center’s director of career communities, to ask how students can prepare to turn a brief conversation into a job or internship offer.
1. Craft an elevator pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief, compelling introduction, summarizing who you are, what you do and what you’re looking for in about 30 seconds to a minute (about the length of an elevator ride).
“It allows the employer to know a little more about your interests and experience, and how you may fit in with their organization,” Ball said. “This makes you stand out from other applicants and allows you to have a deeper and more productive networking conversation.”
Ball recommends a simple structure: who you are, what you’re interested in, a few quick highlights of experience or academic work, and a question for the employer.
“You don’t have to perfectly memorize your pitch,” she added. “Be genuine and think about your goals and what you know about the organization.”
2. Perfect your resume
Your resume creates the first impression, so ensure it’s updated with your latest experiences, skills and achievements. Tailor it to highlight the skills most relevant to your target positions and bring physical copies to the fair.
Two of the biggest mistakes Ball sees in resumes are not proofreading and not considering the audience. “Consider what roles or experiences you would talk about in an interview for a particular role, and tailor your resume to expand on those experiences more than older or less relevant ones.”
She also reminds students that experience comes in many forms. “Volunteering, student clubs and academic projects are all things you can put on your resume.”