The USF St. Petersburg Spring Career Fair is an opportunity to meet employers that are interested in recruiting USF St. Petersburg students and alumni for full-time employment and internship positions.

Confirmed attendees as of 2/13/2012

Regardless of your year in school or your chosen major, there are many benefits to attending a career fair. By participating, you can:

• Learn about the variety of positions available to college graduates
• Talk to someone currently working in your field of interest
• Obtain interview experience
• Learn about internship and/or employment opportunities
• Discuss major and minor options that are of value to organizations
• Obtain referrals for job leads
• Obtain employment or an internship

What is the dress code for this event?
Professional attire is required to attend this event. Note: Students or alumni in casual or business casual attire will not be admitted.

What is professional attire?
For men - Suits (matching dress pants and jacket) with a long-sleeved collard shirt, and a tie. All clothing should be ironed, dress socks should match the color of your suit or slacks, shoes should be clean, and the belt should match the color of your shoes.

For women - Pant/skirt suits or dresses with sleeves. All clothing should be ironed and women should avoid wearing low-cut blouses, see-through or strapless shirts, skirts that are too short, and shoes that are strappy.

Why is dress important?
During career fairs, employers meet many potential candidates and only select a small number of students to interview. It is important that you make every effort to leave a lasting and positive impression.

Employers look for various skills and abilities throughout the interview process. They also look for students that are prepared and knowledgeable of the organization and their industry. There are various ways you can prepare in advance to increase your chances of being selected for a follow up interview. They are as follows:

• Update your resume and bring plenty of copies to distribute
• Bring a portfolio to hold your resumes and something to write with
• Prepare and rehearse a 1-minute script about yourself
• Anticipate and practice answering possible questions
• Research the employers that will be present and learn about their business

During the event, you should assume that employers are observing you throughout the duration of the event. You can ensure that you make a positive first impression by dressing appropriately for the event, behaving professionally at all times, and arriving as early as possible while employers are fresh and have supplies of their materials.

While at the organization's table, you should:

• Maintain professional space when approaching and introducing yourself
• Make good eye contact, give a strong handshake, and use body language that conveys interest and confidence
• Speak naturally – avoid sounding rehearsed
• Collect organizational literature and a business card
• Ask what the preferred way is to follow up
• Do not take “freebies” until you are leaving the table