Across the Career Fair Table: What Makes a Candidate Stand Out
Career fairs are a great opportunity to make connections, explore potential career paths, and learn more about the opportunities available.
Meet Marianna Tedeschi, Recruitment Specialist at French & Parrello Associates (FPA). We asked Marianna to share some of her top advice for students preparing to attend career fairs this fall. Below, she shares seven tips to help students prepare, make a strong impression, and get the most out of their career fair experience.
Although Marianna’s perspective comes from recruiting future engineers, her advice can help students across all majors approach their next career fair with confidence.
Research the Firms Attending
Before the career fair, look into the companies you’re interested in. Learn what types of engineering they specialize in—such as civil, structural, environmental, electrical, transportation, or water/wastewater—and take a look at their current internships and entry-level opportunities.
Know Your Interests
Be prepared to talk about what areas of engineering interest you. You don’t need to have your entire career mapped out, but knowing whether you’re interested in areas like transportation, structural design, environmental engineering, or construction can help recruiters identify opportunities that may be a good fit.
Be Ready With Your “Elevator Pitch”
Practice a short introduction that includes your name, major, year, and engineering interests. For example: “Hi, I’m Sarah. I’m a junior studying civil engineering, and I’m particularly interested in transportation and roadway design. I’m looking for a summer internship where I can gain hands-on experience.”
Don’t Be Afraid to Talk About Your Experience
You don’t need years of professional experience to impress a recruiter. Talk about internships, class projects, research, leadership roles, clubs, volunteer work, part-time jobs, and other experiences that demonstrate your skills. Engineering projects are especially valuable, so be ready to briefly explain the problem you were solving, your specific role, how you approached it, and the outcome.
Show That You’re Willing to Learn
You aren’t expected to know everything as a college student. If you don’t know a particular software program or technical process, don’t pretend that you do. Instead, demonstrate that you’re curious, adaptable, and eager to learn.
Connect With Recruiters After the Fair
If you have a good conversation with a recruiter, follow up afterward. Connect with them on LinkedIn and send a brief thank-you message. It’s a simple way to stay on their radar.
Be Yourself!
Recruiters are looking for more than just a list of qualifications. Be genuine, enthusiastic, and personable. You don’t have to have your entire career figured out—use the career fair as an opportunity to learn, make connections, and explore what’s out there.
