Do you know exactly what you want to do when you graduate? Don’t worry, I don’t truly know either. What I do know is, I want to work with and help people in an administration-like role.
Maybe I could be a student services employee at a college or university? Or a public relations handling social media or community outreach at a local company? Or maybe even an event planner for a non-profit organization?
Honestly, I wish it were that easy, but life never is.
However, after I attended the Fall Job/Internship Fair, I had some new ideas to think about. This fall, I transferred to Salisbury University as a junior and I was looking for a part time job (that wasn’t fast food or retail).
I wanted to be either on or close to SU’s campus. I figured the Fall Job/Internship Fair was the place to go and find something, so I dressed in my professional attire (nice dress, wedges, simple jewelry, curled hair, and even pantyhose).
I showed up to the fair a few minutes early, then Career Services checked me in, gave me a name tag and a map that included all of the businesses and companies that were there. Once it was noon, the doors opened and I walked in confidently with several copies of my resume, an open mind and a smile.
At first I just walked around, checking out the different businesses. It was definitely a little overwhelming since there was over 100 tables, with between one to three representatives at each table.
However, it really isn’t that scary. The employers are trying to get a feel for your personality, just like you are trying to get a feel of theirs.
I did get the feeling that this job fair was more for those who are looking for one of two things: internships or life long careers. But even if that is not what you are seeking, I still think you should go to a job fair.
Here are four reasons why.
1. To Make Connections
You never truly know who you will meet at a job fair. You could be meeting your future boss or coworker, or you could make such a great impression on them that they recommend you to another company they know or work with, which could be better suited for your career needs and wants.
A man from In Focus Financial Advisors Inc. asked me as I walked by, “What kind of career are you looking for?” I replied with, “…something in communications or public affairs.” He stated that he was only looking for accounting majors. However, he then pulled out the job fair guide and he told me how he marked the companies that were looking for marketing or public affairs people. Even though I wasn’t a fit for his company, he helped me find businesses that were looking for someone like me.
2. To Get Some Ideas
You may have an idea of what you want to do but some employers could put a name to your idea. Or, they might give you a completely new idea for your career path that you may have never thought about before.
The representative for Verbal Beginnings and I were talking about what they do, then she asked me what I want to do for a career. When I described what my interests were, she suggested I look into being a recruiter (that was part of her responsibility).
She explained that typically, a recruiter would go to job fairs, depending on the job, possibly wellness/health fairs, and any other chance to get the company name out there. I had never thought of being a recruiter but it is a great idea for a career for me.
3. To Get a Look into That Specific Company or Career Field
If you know what you want to do, that job may look different and have different roles depending on the company that you work for.
It is very common to ask a potential employer at an interview what the average day there looks like or what your responsibilities would be. If you do this at a job fair, you can already get an idea of whether this job would be right for you.
4. To Find an Internship for When It’s Time
Plenty of majors at Salisbury University require an internship. An internship (besides being required) is a great way to get work experience but also a great way to test the waters for that company or job. Many businesses at the job fair offered internships (some paid and some unpaid).
Adam’s Radio Group had a specific internship application and program that aligned with Salisbury University’s requirements and needs. The National Security Agency had many internships available for different majors. Their interns are paid and you could even receive a living/housing stipend to live close to Fort Meade (depending where you live).