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Division of Academic and Student Affairs 
Career Development Center

How to Prepare for a Career Fair

Before the fair

  • View the list of employers in Career Fair Plus attending each fair.
  • Research employers and create a short list of those you’d like to meet.
  • Prepare your resume and have it reviewed.
  • Looking for an internship, co-op or entry-level job? Take action before the fair!
  • Apply for positions in ePACK to be considered for postings and interviews.
  • Co-op orientation: attend a session to begin the process.
  • Reserve a minimum of 2 hours for the fair. Check with faculty before missing class.
  • Prepare a 10 second introduction that includes your name, major, year, and career interest.

“I’m Alex Williams, a senior in civil engineering. I’m graduating in December with a structures concentration. I am interested in design positions in your Greensboro office.”

Day of the fair

  • Dress professionally: business casual (interns/co-ops), traditional interview (new grads).
  • Print 25+ copies of your resume; store in a portfolio or folder.
  • Pack extra paper and pen for important note taking.
  • Pack your short list of employers. Be open to impromptu conversations. Keep in mind that employers are eager to meet students and many are NC State graduates!
  • Arrive early in the day, if possible.
  • Check in at the front desk, pick up a nametag and map of the fair.
  • Observe seasoned students in action.
  • Practice. Begin with an employer who is not on your short list.
  • Smile, initiate a handshake, introduce yourself and offer your resume.
  • Follow the cues of each employer.
  • Help employers get to know you and what you have to offer (your strengths and interests).
  • Show interest and enthusiasm – ask questions.
  • Employers may take your resume or ask you to apply on-line.
  • Thank them for their time, state your interest and ask about the next steps in the process.
  • Request a business card.
  • Jot a few notes to remember details of important conversations.

After the fair

  • Check ePACK for job postings or on-campus interviews associated with the fair.
  • Apply on-line if requested by employers.
  • Email a brief thank you note to employers of interest. Let them know what steps you’ve taken (applied on-line, requested an interview) and attach a copy of your resume.
  • Save business cards for the future and follow up when appropriate.