What is a Career Fair and Why Should I Go?

What is a Career Fair and Why Should I Go? 

Good question, and we know some of you are thinking it.  While the words “career fair” are thrown around in our office with great frequency, we realize that students may not truly know what a career fair is. So, consider this Career Fair 101 regarding our Fall Career and Internship Fair, happening on Wednesday October 17th from 11-2 in the Mack Arena.

A career fair is a gathering of companies that are looking to hire students for full-time, part-time or internship positions.  If a company is at the fair, chances are they are actively looking to fill these roles, although they may have varying timelines. For example, some hiring needs may be immediate, while some may be for the following academic year or summer. So, no matter when you graduate, chances are you will find employers who fit your time table.

Not looking for any position at the moment?  Coming to a career fair is still a great idea so that you can walk around and know what to expect when you are ready to search for an internship or job.  Walking into a room of over 125 employers can be intimidating, so doing a practice run is a great idea!

Here are some frequently asked questions about our career fairs:

What should I wear?

Wear your professional best! Come in business attire.  If you are not sure what that means, we can help!

Is the fair only for business majors?

NOPE!  Employers attending the fair will be representing a wide variety of industries, including engineering, education, health care, not-for-profit, and may others!

What employers are coming?

You can find the list here. Review this list prior to the fair, and identify your top preferences.  Research those companies so that you know who they are and what they do.  Don’t just look at the company name, but review the jobs that they are seeking to fill.  If you are a marketing major, don’t necessarily skip over a non-profit organization, as the organization may be looking for interns to market their services to the community.  (By the way, A MAJOR hospital system will be in attendance this year looking for finance interns.)

Should I bring resumes?

Yes, and plenty of them. It’s a good idea to have your resume looked over by The Career Center prior to the fair.  Students can get a quick resume review during our Quick Question drop in hours, which are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-4:30 and Wednesdays from 11-1, no appointment necessary!

Should I bring cover letters?

Nope, not necessary.

Should I follow-up with employers?

Yes, take a business card from the representatives and make notes on the back with anything relevant that they told you. Send them a thank-you email for taking their time to attend the fair, and attach your resume, even though you may have given them a hard copy at the fair.  Don’t be disheartened if you do not receive a reply.  Recruiters attend many fairs and meet many students, but taking the time to follow-up with them shows your interest.

Have any more questions? We are here to help!  Give us a call at 516-463-6060 or email us at careercenter@hofstra.edu.  See you at the fair!

Darlene Johnson 

Director of External Relations