by BRETT MARSHALL, CSU Public Relations Assistant
The Engineering Career and Internship Fair sponsored by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is Thursday, Feb. 14, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the CSU Ballroom. Our staff in the CSU PR office has reached out to the Career Development Center (CDC) and compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about the fair and put them into this handy guide so you know exactly what to do to prepare for the career fair!
What majors is this event of the highest interest to?
Students studying Automotive Engineering Technology, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering/Technology, Computer Information Technology, Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering Technology, Information Systems, Integrated Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics and/or Physics, should attend this fair for career opportunities.
What employers/organizations will be there?
Students can find the full list of organizations that will be at the job fair by viewing the event information on Handshake. On that page you’ll see descriptions of all employers, be able to explore job opportunities by full-time, part-time or internships and even search for employers by location.
What should I do to prepare?
Before coming to the job fair, students should:
- Research the organizations that will be present and know some background information. This will help you identify organizations that interest you and make for smoother conversations with those groups.
- Stop in to the CDC for a “Quick Stop,” a 10-minute session on career and job search questions, resume help, interview tips and more. The CDC is in Wigley Administration building, room WA209.
- Show employers that you’re interested in them before attending the job fair. This could be simple as giving them a call or sending them an email letting them know you’re looking forward to meeting them and discussing their business.
- Prepare and practice a brief introduction or elevator pitch. Being able to sell yourself to possible employers can give you a big leg up on your peers when applying for a job. Practicing what you’re going to say will help you be more confident at the fair. You can learn more about elevator pitches by visiting this link: The Elevator Pitch.
- Log into your Handshake student account and upload your resume. Make sure your resume is up-to-date and has no objective, or, if it does, make sure it’s broad.
What should I wear?
The CDC recommends students wear conservative, neutral-colored clothing. Blacks, Blues, Greys and Whites are most appropriate. Avoid clothing that’s too short or too tight or that just doesn’t fit properly in general. Safe choices for clothing include dress pants, top and a blazer or sweater. Use makeup, cologne, perfume and accessories in moderation. Fix your hair, freshen up your breath with a mint and drink lots of water. Not sure if you’re too casual? Check out these videos for more information.
