Your ultimate career fair survival guide

By Megan Nash
Mark your calendars! The VCU School of Business is rolling out the red carpet (okay, it’s just tile) for the spring Business Internship & Career Fair on Feb. 18 and 19, 1–4 p.m. With more than 80 employers ready to meet their next hire, making the most of it takes some preparation.
Navigating a career fair is an art. Done right, it’s like hitting all the best rides at Kings Dominion with zero wait times. Done wrong? Well, you might feel like you just braved the Grizzly after lunch. Here’s your step-by-step roadmap to career fair success:
Step 1: The Power of Preparation
- Update your resume: Your Fast Lane ticket. Use this template to wow recruiters and show you mean business.
- Do your homework: Scope out the attending companies on Handshake, narrow down your must-see list and craft thoughtful questions. Nothing says “hire me” like showing you’ve done your research.
- Perfect your elevator pitch: Because “Uh, I’m just here to see what’s up” isn’t a great opening line. Watch this video for pro tips.
Step 2: Fit Check
Suit Yourself Closet
Dates: Feb. 4, 5 and 6
Time: 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.
Location: Snead Hall, Room B1118
No-cost business attire for all your career fair, interview and headshot needs. Because yes, what you wear matters. Show your student ID to select up to four items.
Step 3: Rehearse, Don’t Wing It
Drop-In Peer Career Coaching
When: Every Wednesday
Time: 9 a.m.–noon
Location: Snead Hall, Room B1102, or Zoom
Think of this as your career fair dress rehearsal. Drop in for expert advice on your resume, elevator pitch or how to approach recruiters. It’s quick, easy and might just be your secret weapon.
Step 4: Smile for the Camera
Career Fair Headshots
Dates: Feb. 18 and 19
Time: 9 a.m.– 4 p.m.
Location: Snead Hall, Room B1102
Your LinkedIn profile deserves better than a cropped group photo from spring break. Swing by for a no-cost professional headshot–no hassle, no awkward selfies.
Step 5: Make it Count
Business Internship & Career Fair
Dates: Feb. 18 and 19
Time: 1–4 p.m.
Location: Snead Hall Atrium
This is it. The main event. Meet recruiters hiring for externships, internships and full-time roles. Shake hands, ask smart questions and leave recruiters with no doubt that you’re the candidate they’ve been waiting for.
Every successful career fair starts with a plan. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to turn conversations into opportunities. See you at the fair–let’s make it happen!
Questions? Contact Business Career Services at [email protected]. For more tips and resources, visit business.vcu.edu/business-career-services/.
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