Job Fair Prep Events 

Watch recordings of prep events from past fairs.

When deciding which employers to visit or meet with at the job and internship fairs, consider these questions:

• Why does this organization interest me? (Their mission or values? The type of work they do? The work environment?)
• What skills, experience, or qualities do I have that would benefit the organization? Think about previous jobs or community service work, positions in clubs, courses you've taken, etc.
• What do I want to know about this organization that isn't readily available on their website/social media? This will help you ask a smart question that shows you've done your research.

In-Person Fair

Use the Job & Internship Fair Handshake page to start researching employers. The page is also where the map of the fair will be published the day before the fair. You can search employers by the type of positions for which they're hiring (full- or part-time, fellowship, or internship), by degree area (arts, business, communications, etc.), and by variety of perspectives initiatives and groups.

• Use the document published at Job & Internship Fair Handshake page to mark favorite employers, make notes, etc. 

• Create or update your resume with our templates and guides
• Schedule an appointment with a career advisor for a resume review

In-Person Fair

• Print 10-15 copies of your resume to bring to the fair
• Bring a pen, and if you choose, your business cards

Virtual Fairs

• Upload a resume to your Handshake profile, then click the "Feature on Profile" button to make the document public. When you sign up for sessions, employers will be able to see your profile.
• As back up, consider saving your resume to Google Drive or a similar platform. Have the link ready to share with employers during one-on-one sessions at the fair. 

When you speak with employers at the in-person or virtual fair, you want to give a short pitch that sets you apart and quickly summarizes your skills and interest in their organization.

Watch the recording of our Tell Me About Yourself: Mastering the Elevator Pitch workshop to help you prepare your introduction.

You can also practice your pitch using Big Interview (Handshake log-in required). 

We recommend dressing professionally for in-person and virtual fairs. Dressing as if you were attending an in-person fair will also help you feel more confident. 

• Check out our guidelines on professional image
• Plan your outfit in advance

In-Person Fair

• After you decide what to wear, clean and press your outfit before the fair.