How Students Can Make the Most of Networking, Career Expo

02-05-18Student talking with recruiters at a networking event

Getting one-on-one time with a company when you’re a student looking for a job is important. Making the most of that opportunity is even more so.

The LSU College of Engineering will host its networking reception Tuesday, Feb. 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., giving companies and students the chance to interact more than they might at a normal career fair.

Courtney Frost, engineering career coach for the LSU Olinde Career Center, suggested a few tips for students to consider while preparing for the event:

  • Research the companies who are in attendance
  • Prepare a list of questions to ask company representatives
  • Dress business casual or business professional

Additionally, Frost recommended reaching out to representatives a day or two after the event.

“Make sure you mention what event they were at because these recruiters have back-to-back fairs at different schools,” Frost explained. “It is helpful to remind them of the conversation.”

She added that it is important to understand not many people leave these events with a job offer.

“You are approaching it as relationship building. Networking is about getting information and advice, not necessarily with the immediate goal of being employed,” she explained.
In terms of the all-important resume, Frost said a lot of students believe employers are looking for paid work experience, but that is not always the case.

Work experience can include jobs, internships, volunteering and campus activities. Students who are new to the university can include a variety of high school accomplishments, such as individual or academic projects, leadership roles, and student organizations.

“This is the premiere opportunity of the semester for engineers to get in front of companies,” Frost explained. 

###

By Raven Nichols, Communications Intern