Purchase is holding its annual job fair tomorrow in the Red Room of the Student Services building from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is a great way for students to go and find out more of what they want out of their careers, as well as an opportunity to network with other companies to find what they are looking for.
Wendy Morosoff, the director of career development, said, “Most of the students that go to the job fair are looking for a part time job.” However, it also helps students test the waters for future careers. “The career development center along with the job fair will help you determine that factor,” she said.
At the job fair one should dress to impress, nicely and classy, as you would dress for a job interview. The career development center had a J. Crew spokeswoman come last week to explain to students what they should wear to the job fair, on an interview, and what they should wear in the workplace.
One should also bring an updated resume and maybe even a clip of their writing to give to the companies they are interested in. It is also important for the students to research some of the companies before going so they are prepared to discuss the company with employers.
The career development center had a “One Minute Commercial” seminar last week where students made commercials to teach them what to say at the job fair to employers in under a minute that would make an impact.
“Always make eye contact, and have a firm handshake. Ask as many questions as you can find out about internships they might have and take a business card. You should always send a follow up e-mail thanking them for their time and any other follow up questions you might have,” said Morosoff.
Some feedback the career center has gotten from the employers was how much they loved Purchase students, especially their creativity and politeness, but they wished the students had done more research on their companies.
Bobby Ciafardini, sports information director, graduated from SUNY Purchase in 2002 and has had many job offers as a sports journalist since then. He now works here at Purchase.
He believes it is important to look into the networks, like CNN and CBS, but not to underestimate interning at smaller companies. At those internships, you’ll be able to do more hands on work, because they often need more help.
“Internships are like trading money for an experience you will need for the future,” said Ciafardini, “You need to be open and network with all companies because it will help you get where you want to be for the future.”