After two years of mostly online career fairs, colleges and employers are bringing them back in person. Hiring managers and students are ready to meet face to face again.
The strong job market, especially for students with computer science or STEM degrees, raises one question: do we still need in-person or virtual career fairs? Yes. Career fairs are a smart way for seniors, undergrads, and students looking for internships to meet employers, learn about open roles, and start building a network.
If you are wondering how to prepare for a career fair, these career fair tips can help with resumes, networking, and virtual events.
Amie Ryno, manager of the Center for Professional Development in the Rohrer College of Business at Rowan University, says the goal is not just to find a job today. It is also to meet employers, build relationships, network, and learn who is hiring. Employers are also looking for interns, and students can learn about companies they may want to join.
Lolisa Torbert, assistant director of career events at the University of Miami's Toppel Career Center, agrees. She says it is never too early to attend a career fair. Many employers want sophomores or juniors for internships, not just seniors who are close to graduation. The fair is free for students, so it is a good way to practice meeting employers.
Torbert also says students at the University of Miami must register through Handshake before each fair.
Many colleges use Handshake, a student-focused job board that connects students and alumni with companies looking for interns and new talent. More than 18 million students and recent grads, 550,000 employers, and 1,200 universities use it, including Amazon, Tesla, and Bank of America.
Whether you attend in person or online, use these career fair tips to get the most from the event. Our recruiting team recommends the following.
First impressions happen fast. Dress as you would for an interview.
Most of these tips also help at a virtual career fair. You still want to research companies and dress well. In addition:
Test your settings before the fair. A weak Wi-Fi signal can ruin the start of a virtual fair. A quick test helps your skills shine, not your connection problems.
Join from a quiet spot with a clean background and good light. A computer is better than a phone because it usually gives you better sound and a more stable connection.
Look at the camera, not just the person on the screen. Sit up straight, keep good posture, and show confidence.
Always send a thank-you note to the people you meet. Include your resume again, restate how your background fits their needs, and stay in touch. That simple step can help keep the connection warm.
Harvard University also advises students to use the follow-up note to show how their background and skills fit the employer's needs.
Good luck!
Answer: Yes. Career fairs are useful for all students, not just graduating seniors. Employers often look for interns and like meeting sophomores and juniors early. Attending helps you learn who is hiring, build relationships, practice meeting employers, and prepare for future roles.
Answer: Many colleges require advance registration, often through Handshake. The University of Miami, for example, asks students to register through Handshake before each fair. Since many universities and employers use the platform, check your school career center and the event listing for deadlines.
Answer: Bring a clean, polished resume and be ready to talk about school projects, coding competitions, and hackathons. Employers want to see your problem-solving skills, creativity, and passion for the field. Use clear examples to show what you can do.
Answer: Prepare with care. Review the list of employers and open roles, research the companies you want to meet, and bring thoughtful questions that go beyond the website. Dress well, explain why you fit the role, and ask about same-day or next-day interviews if you are interested.
Answer: Test your tech and internet connection ahead of time, join from a quiet and professional-looking space, and use a computer if possible. Look into the camera, keep good posture, and send tailored thank-you notes after the event.