–Adam Pryor, TigerTV Reporter
The LSU PMAC will open its doors for the biannual Career Expo Tuesday, February 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The Career Expo is the University’s largest recruiting event with more than 100 companies and grad schools and upwards of 1,700 students and alumni attending. It is an opportunity for students to network, explore careers and options for post?baccalaureate study, and learn about job openings.
Many students aren’t always sure how to apply their major after graduation, but the Expo serves as a great opportunity for students in all fields to talk with employers and explore an intended career field. Laurel Keys, women and gender studies sophomore, uses the Career Expo as an opportunity to do just that.
“I want to see what kind of companies I am interested in working for,” Keys said. “Last time I went, I only looked at nonprofit companies because they were the only ones I was drawn towards, but this time I want to look at my other options.”
Sara Crow, Assistant Director for Communications for LSU Career Services, recommends students at all levels attend the Career Expo, even if it is just to get familiar with networking. “Freshmen should go to the fair and practice introducing themselves to people and learn about things that interest them,” Crow said. “As a sophomore and junior you should focus on finding internships and part time jobs and as a senior you should start building relationships with employers.”
Crow explains that the easiest way to build a relationship with a potential employer is to show them you are interested in the company, gather business cards and follow up with them. “Students should always ask for business cards. After talking with them, send a quick email that says you enjoyed their visit.”
From there, Crow says the easiest way to keep the stream of conversation open with an employer is to keep an eye open for positive words regarding those companies in business journals or on the Internet and send an email acknowledging any accomplishments.
All students are recommended to bring a handful of résumés and a small notepad to take notes on and dress appropriately. If you are looking for a job, dress in professional business attire. If you are going just to network, business casual is fine.
Upon checking in, each student will receive a nametag with his/her major on it, a list of companies and a floor plan. All of the companies at the Career Expo have a profile featured on the Career Services website with information that would be beneficial for any student to know before approaching a representative.
The presence of students at the Career Expo is also important because it encourages employers to come back and recruit from the University. Crow explains that, because of the recession, companies have fewer recruiting dollars and are more intentional about the dollars they spend.
“It is really important that students show up to this event because if they don’t, companies will decide it’s not worth their recruiting dollars to come to LSU,” said Crow.
All students can get personalized advice on putting together a résumé and how to “do” the Expo by visiting Career Services in B-4 Coates Hall during the walk-in hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More information regarding the Career Expo and Career Services can be found online at www.lsu.edu/career.
