On Tuesday, February 25th, the university’s largest career fair is expected to bring more than 200 employers to campus to discuss career opportunities with students of all majors.
“Career fairs are important because it gets you ahead of the curve,” said Bryce Biddy, graduate assistant for job development programs. “[It] can really steer you in a positive direction in regards to what you eventually want to accomplish in your life.”
Biddy, along with Bailey Bracken, spoke to students on Monday at a Career Day prep event, offering advice on how to make the most of next Tuesday’s event. At the top of his to-do list: Show up in professional attire and research the standards of the specific industry one is interested in.
Biddy explained the most important items to bring to a career fair are a portfolio with your resume and cover letters and a rehearsed “30-second commercial.” A 30-second commercial is an elevator pitch about yourself that sums up who you are professionally.
“That commercial could make or break you,” said Biddy.
Among the other suggestions offered where, when attending the career fair, be ready to discuss background information, skills, qualifications, and career goals. Being confident is a major factor during this time as well.
“Ask the employer who they are and their position and always make sure to get contact information and the expected time of when you will hear from them,” said Bailey Bracken, a graduate assistant for the job development program. “Alumni love to hire people that went to their school,” added Bracken.
Showing up with questions to ask companies has proven to be very helpful. “Last year when I went to the career fair I had five basic questions planned out and it really helped calm me down and get conversations rolling,” said junior economics major, Geyer Withers.
Withers asked about common career paths within the organizations and what type of professional development the company has to offer. Withers did not get a job from the career but said he acquired valuable information about what he is looking for in an employer.
Many different employers from a variety of industries will be attending the career fair this year. Honeywell , Amazon and Microsoft are three representatives for the internet and software industry. RRD and SixDegrees Inc. are employers for students interested in advertising and marketing companies. The fashion industry will also be present as representatives from FootLocker and Vintage Apparel will be in attendance. The full list of employers attending the career fair can be found here.
After the career fair has ended, Bracken explained that it is important to follow with up the companies and thank the specific representative of the company for coming to the career fair.
Biddy emphasized that career fairs are a time to take advantage of an amazing opportunity given to all students.
For more about the Ole Miss career fair visit here.
Zach Blaine 