Student Career Fair Resources

1. Introduce Yourself:

• Name: Share your first and last name.
• Class Status: Mention if you’re a senior, junior, sophomore, etc.
• Major: State your major (and minor if applicable).

2. Highlight What You’re Looking For:

Describe the type of opportunities you’re seeking, such as internships, full-time roles, or specific fields of work.

3. Mention Relevant Experience:

Briefly share relevant experiences, such as jobs, internships, volunteer work, or leadership roles.

4. Showcase Skills and Strengths:

Highlight a few key skills or strengths that make you a good fit.

5. Demonstrate Knowledge of the Organization:

Tailor your pitch by referencing something specific about the company, such as a recent project, product, or their values.

Delivering your pitch confidently is just as important as what you say. Here are ways to practice effectively:

• Rehearse with a Mirror or Friend: Observe your facial expressions, body language, posture, and use of filler words (like, um).
• Practice with Mock Interviews: Use tools like Big Interview to simulate real-life interview scenarios.
• Get Feedback: Practice with friends or career coaches who can provide constructive feedback.

Remember, keep your tone positive, maintain eye contact, smile, and engage the listener!

After delivering your pitch, make a lasting impression by asking a thoughtful question about the organization. Use your research to ask questions that show genuine interest in their work, such as:

• “Could you tell me more about the leadership development programs you offer?”
• “What kinds of projects do interns typically work on?”
• “How does the company approach professional development and career growth for its employees?”

Conclude by thanking them for their time, giving a firm handshake, and smiling warmly. You can also express interest in learning about next steps in the hiring process if appropriate.

If you still need help pulling it together, try these sample scripts.

Sample Script:

Hello, my name _______ (First & Last). I am a _______ (fr/so/jr/sr) studying ______ (major/minor) and am looking for a _______ (full-time/part-time/internship) in _______ (industry/field). Over the past few years, I have _____ (worked/volunteered/interned) with ________ (organization/student group) as the _______ (position/role). Through this position, I have developed a better understanding of ______ (industry/field) as well as useful _______ (skills/knowledge) that I hope to use in my next position. I know that _______ (organization) is currently hiring for ______ (name of open position). I am very interested in applying. Could you tell me more about ______ (the organization/application process/training/etc.)? 

Example:

Hello, my name is Daniel Nguyen. I am a junior studying Communication and looking for an internship in public relations. Over the last year, I have worked with my student organization as the Social Media Director. Through this position, I have developed a better understanding of the PR field as well as useful marketing and communication skills that I hope to use in my next position. I know that Company ABC is hiring marketing interns for next summer, and I am very interested in learning more about the role. Could you tell me more about the skills you are looking for in an ideal candidate? 

Sample Script:

Hello, my name is __________ and I am a ________________ (class status and major). I am interested in ___________ (list interests relevant to the employer). During my time at UofL, ____________ (insert story). Based on my experience, I am (articulate your professional goals). 

Example: 

Hello, my name is Tyler Johnson and I am a Junior Political Science Major and Women’s and Gender Studies Minor at the University of Louisville. I am interested in combining my knowledge of political science and women’s issues with my organization and communication skills as I pursue a career in community organizing and nonprofit leadership. During my time at UofL, I served as a Leader for the Cardinal Cupboard student organization, where I increased community involvement by over 85%. Based on my academic and professional experience, I am excited to utilize my skills to empower local communities to advocate for their rights. 

• Keep it Conversational: Let the pitch flow naturally and invite dialogue.
• Avoid Basic Questions: Don’t ask what the organization does or if they have jobs available. Show that you’ve done your research.
• Be Specific: When asked about the type of role you want, avoid saying, “I’ll do anything.” Define your interests clearly to show focus.