Career Fairs: What are they, why do you go, and how do you prepare?

Many employers use career fairs to promote their job opportunities and to pre-screen applicants. Most of these fairs consist of booths and tables staffed by recruiters and other representatives from each organization. For students, a career fair can be an excellent place to gather information about potential employers, make contacts that could lead to a job, learn more about an employer’s application process, and discover new possibilities.


UMass Amherst Career Services sponsors a number of career fairs throughout the year and several will be happening in the coming weeks...be sure to check out their on-going calendar of events.

Not sure how to proceed? Stop by Career Services on the 5th floor of Goodell during their walk-in hours, Monday-Friday from 12 to 4 p.m. You can also visit Career Services online to see the planning timeline recommended for each year and download their handouts on "Make Your First Professional Contacts at the Career Fair" and "Sell Yourself at the Career Fair" for tips on making the most of these events.