[Tick Tock] The Career Fair Is Almost Here

“Its a bird… Its a plane… NO ,  look down  it’s the CAREER FAIR !!! ”

Yes, it’s  WPI’s very own Career Fair sponsored by the Career Development Center (CDC). So do your self a favor and mark your calendar : Career Fair, September 18th at the Sport and Recreational Center, 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM.  You sure don’t want to miss it specially if you’re looking for a job, internship or co-op.

*Check out Ahmad’s blog for some helpful insight on deciding between doing an internship or co-op.

Okay, now that you know when and where to show up let me tell you some helpful tips I find useful when preparing for the career fair.

First things is first :

1. Update your Job Finder account as soon as possible : Did you know that you have to manually update your class year? So go ahead and update your Job Finder account if you are a senior but still appear as a freshman. Also, update any important information such as if you have changed your major.

While you are at it :

2. Upload your latest version of your resume into Job Finder : This way companies can find about your latest experiences and achievements

Now time to search for the companies you want to talk to :

3. Search companies by your major : Did you know you can search which majors are companies  looking for? If you didn’t, I have good news for you ! You can.  Just go on Job Finder > Click on the events tab > Click on 2013 Fall Career Fair >  Click on the advanced search tab > Select your major >Submit > and there you go , you can see which companies are interested in your major.

Decide which companies you really want to talk to :

4. Make a list of the companies you definitely want to see : What are the companies you really want to talk to? Make a list to remind your self of such companies so you don’t miss them. This will help you prioritize and maximize your use of time.

First impressions count:

5. Research the company : Companies love to see that you have taken the time to research their company. This will not only give a first good impression but also increase your chances of being invited to an interview.

Have a good time:

6. Relax and enjoy the career fair : Take the time to meet all sorts of companies and improve your presentation skills, they will come in handy in the future.

I hope you find these suggestions helpul and also wish you the best of luck at the career fair ! I know you will do great

Until the next time,

– Sebastian Vergara