Explore Job Opportunities At The Career and Internship Fair

By Hayley Nelson and Anthony Sowe
henelson@smu.edu; asowe@smu.edu

The Hegi Family Career Development Center is hosting the largest career fair of the school year Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. in the Hughes-Trigg Ballroom.

With over 80 companies in search of potential interns and full-time employees, the Career Center encourages SMU students and alumni of all majors to attend.

“I always want more students to attend,” said Darin Ford, Director of the Hegi Family Career Development Center.

Although the career fair is intended for juniors and seniors, underclassmen are still welcome. Ford said it’s never too early to start looking for internships given the current economic state.

“Right now employers are giving less opportunities,” he said. “They’re offering one to two positions, no longer two to three positions.”

Ford suggests that students do more than one internship. He said that interning with large companies is not always the best way to go; students should find the opportunity that allows them to get the most experience.

Ford also said networking through many channels, such as family and friends, is important. The mixture of a good internship with proper networking is the key to getting a good job.

One mistake that many students make is coming to the event ill prepared.

“You need to know your employer, instead of expecting them to offer you a great job without doing your research,” Ford said.

Here are some preparation tips for the career fair:

Remember to bring your SMU ID. No RSVP is required, but job seeking students should spend some time preparing for the event.

A list of the companies attending is available on MustangTRAK and the Career Fair’s Website. Make a list of the top business tables you want to visit, that way you don’t waste time navigating through the fair.

Professional attire is strongly recommended. Looking the part shows you are taking the event and yourself seriously. It portrays an image that co-workers and clients respect, which keeps you competitive.

Bring several copies of your resume to give to recruiters. Prepare a quick introduction so you don’t stumble when talking and have some questions you can ask employers.

Don’t forget their business card. This way, you can follow up after the fair.

Finally, be flexible! If the table you want to visit has a crowd go back later. Last year roughly 600 students and alumni attended the event.

For more information, contact Darin Ford at 214-768-2266 or dford@smu.edu.