vi. Using the Career Fair to Explore: A First-Year Student’s Guide

Attending a career fair during your first year might sound intimidating—but it’s actually one of the best ways to explore careers, meet employers, and start thinking about your future. At UNO, the Office of Career Services hosts a large on-campus Career Fair every fall, usually in the first two weeks of October. Over 100 employers attend, representing industries from healthcare and hospitality to engineering, education, and business. Even if you’re not ready to apply for a full-time job yet, the Career Fair is a great place to ask questions, practice networking, and learn about part-time jobs, internships, and potential career paths.

What You Can Do at the Career Fair (Even as a First-Year Student)

• Explore Part-Time Jobs During School
  Many local employers who attend the fair are looking for students to fill part-time roles that can fit around your class schedule.
• Learn About Internships & Career Paths
  Use the opportunity to ask recruiters about how students get started in their field. Think of it like a series of informal interviews or career Q&A sessions. Most professionals are happy to share advice.
• Start Practicing Your Elevator Pitch
  Prepare a 30–60 second introduction where you share your name, major (or intended major), interests, and what you’re hoping to learn. For example:
  “Hi, I’m Taylor, a first-year student majoring in Psychology. I’m exploring career paths where I can work with people and make a difference. I’m really interested in hearing about entry-level roles or internships your company offers for students like me.”
• Get Comfortable in a Professional Setting
  You don’t have to walk in with a perfect resume or a polished pitch. Just showing up, introducing yourself, and collecting info is a valuable first step. The more you do it, the easier it gets.

Photo by University of New Orleans

How to Prepare (and Not Stress Out)

• Check Your Email & UNO Career Services Website
  You’ll get updates in your student email about who’s attending and how to prepare. Review the list of employers and pick 5–7 that sound interesting to research ahead of time.
• Attend a Prep Workshop
  Career Services offers helpful workshops on resumes, elevator pitches, and how to talk to employers. These can boost your confidence.
• Update or Start a Resume
  Include any work experience, volunteer service, or class projects. Bring 10–20 copies of your resume (Career Services in UC 250 can help you print them).
• Dress the Part (For Free!)
  Need something professional to wear? Visit the Career Closet at Career Services for free clothing items to help you look polished and confident.
• Prepare a Few Questions
  Employers love when students are curious. Try:
• “What kinds of roles do you offer for students or recent grads?”
• “What do you look for in someone just starting out?”
• “How did you get started in your field?”

You don’t need to have it all figured out to attend the Career Fair! Just showing up, observing, and having a few conversations is a powerful way to start exploring your future. If you’re introverted or unsure, set a small goal—talk to two employers, or just walk through the fair to see how it works.

Every professional started somewhere. Let this be your first step.