School is just starting – and it’s time to think ‘Career Fair’

While focused on opportunities for current business students, all NC State students and alumni are encouraged to attend, said Brian Newton, director of The Career Development Center in Poole College’s Office of Undergraduate Programs.

Why should students attend so early in the academic year? Because companies are already recruiting for internships and full-time positions, he said.

“Imagine meeting and networking with as many as 80 different companies – in a single day,” Newton said. “That is the distinct advantage of our Poole College of Management Career & Internship Fair. Companies in a variety of fields with a range of recruiting needs will be present. We currently have more than 40 companies registered, but expect to have between 80 and 90 participating,” he said.

Students are encouraged to check NC State’s ePACK website regularly to see updates to the list of participating companies and the positions they need to fill, and to begin now to prepare for the career fair.

“I encourage students to do a bit of research on companies that interest them,” Newton said. “Then take time to update and make copies of your resume. Bring those, along with your student ID card, when coming to the career fair – wearing business professional attire.”

Students also are encouraged to set aside time for the career development workshops offered by the college’s career development staff. Workshop schedules are updated throughout the year at The Career Development Center website, part of the undergraduate programs’ website. Students should register for hte workshops through their ePACK home page, using the ‘Events’ tab.

Following are a few additional tips that Newton offers to help students make the most of a career fair:

• Dress professionally (preferably in a suit).
• Bring a portfolio a notepad for taking notes (no backpacks).
• Develop and practice your introduction.
• Bring several copies of your resume (on fine resume paper).
• Research employers before attending.
• Smile, shake hands confidently, and introduce yourself when you approach an employer.
• Ask questions that show interest in the organization and that you have done your research on the company.
• Turn off your cell phone when you enter McKimmon and do not talk on your cell phone when you are in the eyesight of employers.
• Ask for business cards..

• Follow up by sending thank-you notes.

McKimmon Center is located at the corner of Gorman and Western. A Shuttle Service vehicle will be running to and from the McKimmon Center every 20-30 minutes on the day of the career fair, with stops at the Nelson Courtyard (Between Nelson and Kilgore Halls on Brooks Avenue) from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The shuttle will wait for 10 minutes at both Nelson and McKimmon to collect passengers.