As we head in to 2017, internships and full-time positions are opening up at an even faster pace than last year! The education, health, professional and business sectors are particularly strong in recruiting, as well as anything related to technology and engineering. The fall brought record numbers of employers to campus to recruit with many other employers waiting for a spot at the Career Fair and other recruiting events. Make sure your student takes advantage of all the employers visiting campus this spring.
The Spring Career Fair will take place on February 22 and 23. We have a tremendous range of national, regional and local employers planning to attend. Some examples are SAIC, Leidos, General Dynamics, Inova, Verizon and the Hospital Corporation of America. In addition, a range of financial services companies will be recruiting, as well as many government agencies and non-profits from around the D.C. metro area.
A lot of employers are hiring for a range of positions, so it is important for students to attend both days. Please have your student check out the list of participants before attending so that he or she can see who is coming and what positions they are recruiting for. Be aware that some employers use the fair to promote their online application tools, whereas, some take resumes and even do screening interviews.
So, how can you help your student get prepared before meeting employers? Here are our top tips for family members:
- Encourage your student to have his or her resume reviewed by Career Services, as well as attend a preparation event before the Career Fair to practice speaking with employers. Check out the events calendar for event dates here.
- Urge your student to come to the Career Fair professionally dressed to make a strong first impression. A suit is recommended.
- Ask your student to pick out 6 to 8 companies to research before the fair. Employers do not like being asked what they do! They expect students to know that information. The list of participating employers is available from within HireMason or on our website.
Finally, University Career Services is here to prepare and connect career-ready students for post-graduate success. Make sure your student is making the most of this excellent Mason resource by using it early and often!
Bernadette Davey
Career Fair Manager
University Career Services