Students

In preparation for Career Day, review the websites of employers scheduled to attend the event to learn about their philosophies, their goals, their work, and their employment opportunities. Preparation also includes formulating appropriate lines of inquiry based upon your research.

• DO NOT approach an employer and ask him/her to "tell me about your organization and the opportunities available".
• DO introduce yourself by stating your department, your graduation date, and (based on your research) the types of opportunities that are available with that employer and why they are both of interest to you and a good match for your education and experience.

Additional Preparation

1. Research participating employers by visiting their websites prior to the event. Job descriptions from those who send them in advance will be made available to you before Career Day. Refer to this website for tips on employer research.
2. Prior to Career Day, think about what you’re looking for in a position and what you have to offer. Prepare a 2-minute pitch that includes: your name, department, prior degree(s), current degree program, brief description of relevant experience, and your immediate career goals. Formulate questions for the various employers attending the event. Refer to the OCS for tips on interviewing.
3. Prioritize the list of employers with whom you’d like to meet.

On Career Day

Wear business/interview attire. Bring your business cards, a pad and pen, and at least 50 copies of your resume. Also:

• Plan to arrive for the start of Career Day (typically 12:30pm) and to stay until its conclusion (4:00pm).
• Don't forget your CUMC identification.
• While waiting to talk with each representative, review any available literature and plan the questions you want to ask.
• If the line for your target is long, select another employer from your priority list to speak with in the interim.
• Introduce yourself to your target; smile, shake hands, and offer your resume. When you have concluded your discussion, ask for a business card for follow-up purposes and a thank you note, if appropriate
• After each interaction, jot down quick notes for future reference.

Post Career Day

No more than two weeks following Career Day, be sure to send follow-up letters to those employers you wish to pursue as well as cover letters and resumes to those with whom you did have an opportunity to speak.