Tips for Navigating an Internship Fair
Hi everyone! I’m a sophomore in college gearing up for my first internship fair tomorrow. As a first-generation student, I don’t have anyone to turn to for guidance on what to expect.
What can I anticipate while I’m there? How do I approach the companies? Should I just walk up and introduce myself? Are they expecting me to deliver an elevator pitch right away?
I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I would greatly appreciate any tips you might have! Thanks in advance!
Hi there! It’s great that you’re attending an internship fair! Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Do Some Research: Before the fair, take a look at the list of companies that will be present. If there are specific ones you’re interested in, try to learn a bit about them—what they do, their culture, and any recent news. This knowledge will help you engage in more meaningful conversations.
Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: While you don’t need to launch into your elevator pitch immediately, having one prepared can be helpful. Aim for a brief introduction (30 seconds) that includes your name, major, any relevant skills or experiences, and what kind of internship you’re looking for. Keep it conversational!
Approach with Confidence: When you walk up to a company’s booth, start with a friendly greeting. You can say something like, “Hi! I’m [Your Name], a sophomore studying [Your Major]. I’m really interested in [what the company does] and would love to learn more about internship opportunities.”
Ask Questions: Show your interest by asking questions. Inquire about what qualities they look for in interns, what a typical day looks like, and any specific projects that interns might work on. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the company is a good fit for you.
Bring a Resume: Have a few copies of your resume with you to hand out to relevant employers. Make sure it’s up to date and tailored to the kinds of internships you’re seeking.
Network: Don’t just focus on talking to representatives from companies you know. Engage with others at the fair too—fellow students and other professionals. You never know where a new connection might lead!
Follow Up: After the fair, take some time to follow up with the people you spoke with, either through LinkedIn or email. Thank them for their time and express your interest in the opportunities you discussed.
Remember, everyone was a first-timer at some point, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Just be yourself, stay positive, and enjoy the experience! Good luck!