With career fairs quickly approaching, students have a unique opportunity to prepare to shine in front of potential employers with the help of the UA Career Center.
“There have been so many students I have interacted with over the years that have had success stories all by going to the career fair with an open mind and winding up with an internship or a job they’ve loved,” said Kristi Wheeler-Griffin, experiential learning program manager. “This could be a company that was never even on the radar prior to the opportunity of meeting them in person.”
Career Fair Dates
- Technical and Engineering Career Fair – Tues., Feb. 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Coleman Coliseum
- General Interest and Business Career Fair – Wed., Feb. 12, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Coleman Coliseum
- Co-op Interview Day – Tues., March 4, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Student Center Ballroom
- Education Interview Day – Wed., March 5, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Student Center Ballroom
What to Expect at a Career Fair
Networking Opportunities
One of the most valuable aspects of attending a career fair is the chance to network and meet new people. If talking to recruiters sounds intimidating, the Career Center is here to help. They offer a supportive environment for students to practice elevator pitches, interviews and salary negotiation. Staff are aware that students may be new to the process. They’re prepared to guide you through mock interviews by offering feedback to help you polish your delivery.
Employers Looking for All Majors
Another benefit of the career fair is the wide range of employers that hire across different fields. These recruiters are actively looking for talent across all academic disciplines. The Career Center helps you identify companies that match your goals and academic background, so you can target employers who are a perfect fit for your skills.
There have been so many students… that have had success stories all by going to the career fair with an open mind and winding up with an internship or a job they’ve loved.
Internship and Co-Op Opportunities
The Career Fair can help you land internships and co-op opportunities in addition to full-time positions. Aside from teaching you what working in that industry is like, internships can help you establish a network within your chosen field. Note that some internship opportunities, such as accounting internships at major firms, are extremely competitive and can filled many months in advance.
The Career Center offers resources like V-Mock to help enhance your résumé and application materials to increase your chances of landing one of these sought-after roles.
Prepare for the Fair with Workshops and Events
To ensure you’re as prepared as possible, the Career Center offers a variety of workshops leading up to the career fair. These essential lessons can make all the difference when you’re engaging with recruiters.
Crash Courses
Not sure where to start? Attend a Career Fair Crash Course! These informative sessions will walk you through everything you need to know, from the basics of how to approach employers to tips on following up after the fair. You can attend in person or via Zoom, depending on your schedule. Upcoming crash course dates include: Feb. 10, 3:30 p.m.
Elevator Pitches and Interviewing with Confidence
Even for seasoned speakers, practicing your elevator pitch with the Speaking Studio will sharpen your pitch for potential employers. The Career Center will teach you how to interview with confidence when you schedule a mock interview appointment through Handshake.
- Interviewing with Confidence – Feb. 10, 1 – 1:50 p.m. at 3400 Student Center
On the Way to the Career Fair
Download Career Fair Plus app.
Download the Career Fair Plus app to maximize your chance of success at the fair. The app provides an interactive map that helps you locate employers. You can filter based on your interests, check in electronically and drop off your résumé directly to booths.
Dress professionally.
The Career Fair is all about dressing for success. Avoid casual clothing you might wear to class. To borrow high quality business professional clothing for free, book an appointment with the Denise and Chandler Root Crimson Career Closet in the Student Center.
Hop on the Crimson Ride.
Parking can be tricky at Coleman Coliseum, so avoid the stress and take the bus instead. The East 1 and 2 routes pick up and drop off at Lloyd Hall and Coleman Coliseum.
For more information on UA’s Career Center, visit their website, call 205-348-5848, contact career@ua.edu or visit 3400 UA Student Center.