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Are you looking for a job or internship this year? Career Services hosts career fairs each semester to connect students with potential employers. Even if you are not actively job searching, these events are a great way to learn about opportunities, stay updated on industry trends and practice your networking skills.   

Here are some tips for making the most of in-person and virtual career fairs. 

  Register on Handshake 

CU Boulder students and alumni from all majors, experience levels and backgrounds can use Handshake to register for career fairs, find event details and see a list of employers attending. Current students already have an account—simply log in and follow these steps to complete your profile.   

For virtual career fairs, use Handshake to sign up for “Available Sessions,” like one-on-ones with a recruiter or group sessions on different company-specific topics.   

At in-person career fairs, each employer will have a QR code for you to scan at their table. This allows them to collect a list of all the students who checked in with them. They can then view your profile, download your resume and message you on Handshake after the fair. Make sure your profile is public and complete by including your major, school year, preferred name and resume.  

Review the list of upcoming career fairs to see which events best fit your interests.   

  Attend workshops to prep 

  Get organized 

Career fairs are open to everyone, no matter your major or what year you’re in, and employers are looking to fill all kinds of positions. Take a moment to review the list of companies attending and pick out the ones you’re most interested in meeting. New employers are added regularly, so keep checking Handshake for updates leading up to the event. Plan out your schedule ahead of time so you have enough time to talk with your top choices—lines can get long and conversations might take longer than expected. 

If you’re going to an in-person fair, don’t forget your Buff OneCard for check-in and bring a few printed copies of your up-to-date resume. Having a notebook and pen is a good idea for jotting down notes. You can bring your bag or backpack, but remember there’s no bag drop, so you’ll need to keep your things with you. 

For virtual career fairs, keep your updated resume handy to share with recruiters and have some paper nearby so you can easily take notes on your conversations. 

  Practice  

Get ready to introduce yourself and ask thoughtful questions when you chat with recruiters. Start by sharing your name, your year in college and your major or area of study. Mention the types of jobs or internships you’re interested in and highlight how your classes, campus involvement or work experience relate to those roles. 

Coming prepared with questions shows recruiters you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their organization. Check out the top employers you want to connect with and jot down a few questions ahead of time. Great questions can help you get a better idea of company culture and opportunities, while also making you stand out as an engaged candidate. 

  Dress for success 

Whether you’re heading to a career fair on campus or logging in virtually, choose an outfit that feels true to you but also fits the vibe of the jobs you’re interested in. Dressing the part can help boost your confidence and show employers you’re ready to take the next step. 

If you’re not sure what’s expected in your field, check out company websites, ask professors or advisors, or reach out to Career Services for advice—there’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to planning your future. 

  Take notes 

Meeting with multiple employers can be an exciting learning experience, and keeping track of your conversations helps you make the most of it. Bring a notebook and pen, or use your phone or laptop, to capture key points from each discussion.  

After connecting with recruiters, jot down their contact information and highlight memorable details from your conversation. Noting what stood out about each company will help you follow up thoughtfully and remember your impressions when opportunities arise. These notes could be the boost you need to excel in interviews or to write standout thank-you emails after the fair—setting you apart in the job search process! 

  Find support 

For more tips to help you prepare for career fairs, review our accessibility resources and check out upcoming programs and workshops. 

Buffs can also stop by the Career Services office on the fourth floor of the Center for Community (C4C) for a free professional headshot or to have your resume reviewed. If you have questions about the fair, ask a Career Services team member through LiveChat on the Career Services website.  

For accommodations including real-time captioning or a sign language interpreter, email adacoordinator@colorado.edu or visit the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance website at least seven days before the event. During the fair, visit the student check-in or info table for assistance or email careerservicesevents@colorado.edu to request an accommodation.