University of Dayton students should suit up to meet employers and graduate schools from the 159 organizations participating in the spring career fair from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 11, at the UD arena.
According to Chris Wiley, the associate director for Career Services, the university hosts career fairs throughout the academic year to provide students and alumni an opportunity to create professional relationships, and potentially gain employment.
“We’re excited to connect students with the 159 companies and grad schools currently registered for the event,” Wiley said. “They’re excited to see what our students have to offer.”
As of Tuesday, Feb. 5, 143 companies and 16 graduate schools were registered for the fair, she said.
Wiley explained although past career fairs have been in the College Park Center, the fair has outgrown the space.
A shuttle service will also be transporting students beginning at 12:30 p.m. and ending at 5:30 p.m. The shuttle will leave from the front of the UD RecPlex on Evanston Avenue, according to the Career Services’ website.
Students with cars can drive to the arena without worrying about parking permits, according to Wiley.
To prepare for the fair, Wiley said researching companies in advance highlights a student’s eagerness and enthusiasm for the position.
Preparing a 30-second personal pitch to present to recruiters also demonstrates a student’s ability to sell themselves as employees, according to Wiley.
“You want to tell employers what you’re bringing to the table,” she said. “Tell them a little bit about yourself, your employment aspirations, etc. You want to pique their interest and let them know you want the job.”
Liz Kimball, a 2010 UD alumna, said she was intimidated the first time she went to the fair her freshman year.
“I was in the CORE program and my professor offered us extra credit to go to the event,” Kimball said. “I was a little terrified when I walked in but the recruiters are so nice. You just have go in and be confident.”
Kimball, now a senior sales recruitment leader for Total Quality Logistics in Chicago, said she first became involved with the company through the fair. TQL is the nation’s second largest freight brokerage firm, according to their website.
“I got an internship after I went my freshman year,” Kimball said. “And during my sophomore year, I contacted an alumnus working there through the system on Hire a Flyer and got another position.”
Wiley said she strongly encourages students to dress for the occasion and wear a professional suit, if possible.
With a suit on and company knowledge prepared, students should bring copies of their résumé to the event, Wiley said. Although many companies are moving toward an online application, students should not be discouraged if employers do not accept the physical document.
“If a situation occurs where an employer asks you to apply online, you should listen,” Wiley said. “Complete the application online then send them an email telling them you followed through. Making that connection at the career fair will help them put a face to the name when they see your application.”
Career Services will be offering a preparation workshop for those interested in attending the fair at 3:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, at the Alumni House on L Street. For more information on the career fair, visit udayton.edu/careerservices.
