9 answers
Elizabeth
Student
Chester Springs, Pennsylvania
3
Questions
Asked
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Have you attended any career fairs or networking events? Were they helpful?
I am a sophomore psychology student hoping to gain insight on possible career paths, but am unsure if networking events are worth going to.
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9 answers
Cliff Schreier
35
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
Elizabeth,
To answer your question, YES! Career fairs are very important for you to attend. As an engineer, I don't know a lot about your major, but I think this all still applies. There are a number of benefits:
1. You get to see what companies are hiring for your specialty. You might be very surprised as to who hires for your major. You can do your research beforehand at the career services for your school as they likely have all that information before the event.
2. You get to TALK to recruiters and show them your resume. They can tell you what they are looking for in a strong candidate so you can be prepared for future career fairs and hiring opportunities. Ask for honest feedback and build your skills and resume based on their feedback.
3. You can check out internship/co-op opportunities: These are GREAT for you to help refine exactly what kind of a role you want for a career. Even if you do an internship and hate it, it helps you decide better on your career and it's not a long-term commitment.
4. It's great for networking. You meet peers and potential future colleagues.
5. I think career fairs are exciting, and you can get free merch from all the companies who are hiring!
6. Finally, so you might miss out on a class or two - your professors know how important it is and they will likely be lenient (unless you have a test).
So, YES, attend career fairs in both the fall and spring as the players/opportunities might change.
It's great that you're looking into this as a sophomore - some people wait until right before they graduate but many jobs may already be taken by then.
Go for it!
Thanks.
To answer your question, YES! Career fairs are very important for you to attend. As an engineer, I don't know a lot about your major, but I think this all still applies. There are a number of benefits:
1. You get to see what companies are hiring for your specialty. You might be very surprised as to who hires for your major. You can do your research beforehand at the career services for your school as they likely have all that information before the event.
2. You get to TALK to recruiters and show them your resume. They can tell you what they are looking for in a strong candidate so you can be prepared for future career fairs and hiring opportunities. Ask for honest feedback and build your skills and resume based on their feedback.
3. You can check out internship/co-op opportunities: These are GREAT for you to help refine exactly what kind of a role you want for a career. Even if you do an internship and hate it, it helps you decide better on your career and it's not a long-term commitment.
4. It's great for networking. You meet peers and potential future colleagues.
5. I think career fairs are exciting, and you can get free merch from all the companies who are hiring!
6. Finally, so you might miss out on a class or two - your professors know how important it is and they will likely be lenient (unless you have a test).
So, YES, attend career fairs in both the fall and spring as the players/opportunities might change.
It's great that you're looking into this as a sophomore - some people wait until right before they graduate but many jobs may already be taken by then.
Go for it!
Thanks.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
357
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth, this is an excellent question and you have received sound advice from Iryna. I would add / reiterate:
- Be strategic about the events you attend. A general career fair or networking event generally is going to be less helpful (unless you just want to learn about different organizations) than one targeted to your profession.
- Have realistic expectations. Generally, your interactions are going to be shorter in a large event so you will get less information and opportunity to establish rapport.
- Networking groups (versus one-off events) give you more of an opportunity to get to know each other, providing more usable information and support. If there isn't one in your field on campus, maybe you could create one?
Good luck!
- Be strategic about the events you attend. A general career fair or networking event generally is going to be less helpful (unless you just want to learn about different organizations) than one targeted to your profession.
- Have realistic expectations. Generally, your interactions are going to be shorter in a large event so you will get less information and opportunity to establish rapport.
- Networking groups (versus one-off events) give you more of an opportunity to get to know each other, providing more usable information and support. If there isn't one in your field on campus, maybe you could create one?
Good luck!
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
190
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth!
Аattending career fairs and networking events can be beneficial, especially for a psychology student like you.
Benefits of Attending Career Fairs and Networking Events
Exposure to Opportunities:
Career fairs often feature a variety of employers from different sectors, including mental health, education, research, and human resources. This exposure can help you learn about job openings, internships, and volunteer opportunities tailored to psychology.
Networking:
Networking events allow you to connect with professionals in the field. Building relationships can lead to mentorship opportunities, job references, and insider knowledge about the industry.
Learning About Career Paths:
You can gain insights into different career paths available with a psychology degree. Speaking with professionals can help clarify which areas of psychology interest you and provide you with information on required qualifications.
Resume Building:
Many events offer workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and personal branding. Attending these sessions can enhance your job application materials and interview preparedness.
Skill Development:
Engaging in discussions and practicing your communication skills in a professional setting can improve your confidence and effectiveness in networking and interviews.
Getting Industry Insights:
You can learn about current trends, challenges, and advancements in psychology or related fields, helping you stay informed and relevant in your studies and future career.
Tips for Attending Career Fairs and Networking Events
Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Have a brief introduction ready that summarizes who you are, what you study, and your career interests.
Bring Your Resume: Have copies of your resume to hand out to potential employers or contacts.
Dress Professionally: A professional appearance can make a positive impression on recruiters and peers.
Ask Questions: Be curious and prepare questions to ask professionals about their career paths, experiences, and advice.
Follow Up: After the event, connect with people you met through LinkedIn or email. Express appreciation for their time and insights.
Attending career fairs and networking events can be highly advantageous for a second-year psychology student. They provide invaluable opportunities to learn, connect, and explore potential career paths. If you have the chance, consider participating in these events to enhance your understanding of the psychology field and make professional connections.
Аattending career fairs and networking events can be beneficial, especially for a psychology student like you.
Benefits of Attending Career Fairs and Networking Events
Exposure to Opportunities:
Career fairs often feature a variety of employers from different sectors, including mental health, education, research, and human resources. This exposure can help you learn about job openings, internships, and volunteer opportunities tailored to psychology.
Networking:
Networking events allow you to connect with professionals in the field. Building relationships can lead to mentorship opportunities, job references, and insider knowledge about the industry.
Learning About Career Paths:
You can gain insights into different career paths available with a psychology degree. Speaking with professionals can help clarify which areas of psychology interest you and provide you with information on required qualifications.
Resume Building:
Many events offer workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and personal branding. Attending these sessions can enhance your job application materials and interview preparedness.
Skill Development:
Engaging in discussions and practicing your communication skills in a professional setting can improve your confidence and effectiveness in networking and interviews.
Getting Industry Insights:
You can learn about current trends, challenges, and advancements in psychology or related fields, helping you stay informed and relevant in your studies and future career.
Tips for Attending Career Fairs and Networking Events
Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Have a brief introduction ready that summarizes who you are, what you study, and your career interests.
Bring Your Resume: Have copies of your resume to hand out to potential employers or contacts.
Dress Professionally: A professional appearance can make a positive impression on recruiters and peers.
Ask Questions: Be curious and prepare questions to ask professionals about their career paths, experiences, and advice.
Follow Up: After the event, connect with people you met through LinkedIn or email. Express appreciation for their time and insights.
Attending career fairs and networking events can be highly advantageous for a second-year psychology student. They provide invaluable opportunities to learn, connect, and explore potential career paths. If you have the chance, consider participating in these events to enhance your understanding of the psychology field and make professional connections.
Joshua Moore
Wireless Engineer
3
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Career fairs are a wonderful way to build connections within the industry. I would advise to ask as many questions as possible with the folks representing the careers/industry/business you're interested in. Take notes, always listen to what others say about what they do (good or bad). You'll learn to filter out the bad and build on the good. Also, any type of field you're in, it's good to study and learn as much as possible prior to any type of interview. Find out the background of the company or individual. Write all of your thoughts down about what you know and have learned after the job fairs and learn to build your own layout of how things work.
John Kunney Jr.
Technical Writer
3
Answers
Reidsville, Georgia
Updated
John’s Answer
Dear Elizabeth,
Attending a career fair can be a worthwhile endeavor, though I must confess, my personal experiences haven't been particularly beneficial. Let me elaborate. I've participated in numerous career fairs, interacting with recruiters and company representatives. Yet, whenever I attempted to hand them my resume, they would direct me to their online job portals or career websites to apply instead.
This scenario led me to question the necessity of these events. Why attend a career fair when I could simply apply for the same positions on job platforms like LinkedIn, CareerBuilder, or Indeed? These websites function as daily career fairs, accessible from the comfort of your home. It's akin to choosing to shop online during a Black Friday sale rather than braving the crowds in-store.
Interestingly, I've found more success securing jobs online, often with companies reaching out to me first, compared to my experiences at career fairs. However, as I initially mentioned, there's no harm in giving career fairs a try. Your experience might be more fruitful than mine.
Attending a career fair can be a worthwhile endeavor, though I must confess, my personal experiences haven't been particularly beneficial. Let me elaborate. I've participated in numerous career fairs, interacting with recruiters and company representatives. Yet, whenever I attempted to hand them my resume, they would direct me to their online job portals or career websites to apply instead.
This scenario led me to question the necessity of these events. Why attend a career fair when I could simply apply for the same positions on job platforms like LinkedIn, CareerBuilder, or Indeed? These websites function as daily career fairs, accessible from the comfort of your home. It's akin to choosing to shop online during a Black Friday sale rather than braving the crowds in-store.
Interestingly, I've found more success securing jobs online, often with companies reaching out to me first, compared to my experiences at career fairs. However, as I initially mentioned, there's no harm in giving career fairs a try. Your experience might be more fruitful than mine.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6717
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Elizabeth!
Attending Career Fairs and Networking Events: Insights for Psychology Students
1. Understanding the Value of Career Fairs and Networking Events
Career fairs and networking events are designed to connect students with potential employers, industry professionals, and other students who share similar career interests. For a psychology student like yourself, these events can provide valuable insights into various career paths available within the field of psychology and related areas.
2. Benefits of Attending Career Fairs
Exposure to Diverse Opportunities: Career fairs often feature a wide range of employers from different sectors, including mental health services, educational institutions, corporate settings, and non-profit organizations. This exposure allows you to learn about various roles such as clinical psychologist, school counselor, human resources specialist, or research assistant.
Direct Interaction with Employers: These events provide a unique opportunity to meet recruiters and hiring managers face-to-face. This personal interaction can help you make a memorable impression compared to submitting an application online.
Access to Resources: Many career fairs offer workshops or informational sessions on resume writing, interview techniques, and job search strategies. These resources can enhance your preparedness for entering the job market.
Networking Opportunities: Networking is crucial in any field. By attending these events, you can build relationships with professionals who might offer guidance or mentorship as you navigate your career path.
3. Benefits of Networking Events
Building Professional Relationships: Networking events allow you to connect with peers and professionals in your field. Establishing these relationships can lead to internships or job opportunities down the line.
Learning from Others’ Experiences: Engaging in conversations with experienced professionals can provide insights into their career paths, challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. This knowledge can be invaluable as you consider your own future.
Expanding Your Knowledge Base: Networking events often include guest speakers or panels that discuss current trends in psychology or related fields. Staying informed about industry developments is essential for making informed career decisions.
4. Considerations Before Attending
While there are numerous benefits to attending career fairs and networking events, it’s important to approach them strategically:
Research Participants: Before attending an event, research which companies or professionals will be present. This will help you target your efforts toward those that align with your interests in psychology.
Prepare Your Materials: Have copies of your resume ready and prepare an elevator pitch that succinctly describes who you are and what you’re looking for in terms of opportunities.
Follow Up After the Event: After meeting professionals at these events, follow up with a thank-you email or LinkedIn connection request. This helps reinforce the relationship you’ve started building.
In conclusion, attending career fairs and networking events can be highly beneficial for a sophomore psychology student like yourself. They not only provide insight into potential career paths but also equip you with essential skills for job searching while allowing you to build a professional network that could support your future endeavors.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides extensive resources on careers in psychology including information on various specializations within the field and advice on professional development through networking.
2. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
NACE offers insights into best practices for college students regarding internships, job searching strategies, and the importance of networking in securing employment after graduation.
3. Psychology Today
Psychology Today features articles discussing various careers in psychology along with expert opinions on how networking plays a critical role in professional advancement within this field.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Attending Career Fairs and Networking Events: Insights for Psychology Students
1. Understanding the Value of Career Fairs and Networking Events
Career fairs and networking events are designed to connect students with potential employers, industry professionals, and other students who share similar career interests. For a psychology student like yourself, these events can provide valuable insights into various career paths available within the field of psychology and related areas.
2. Benefits of Attending Career Fairs
Exposure to Diverse Opportunities: Career fairs often feature a wide range of employers from different sectors, including mental health services, educational institutions, corporate settings, and non-profit organizations. This exposure allows you to learn about various roles such as clinical psychologist, school counselor, human resources specialist, or research assistant.
Direct Interaction with Employers: These events provide a unique opportunity to meet recruiters and hiring managers face-to-face. This personal interaction can help you make a memorable impression compared to submitting an application online.
Access to Resources: Many career fairs offer workshops or informational sessions on resume writing, interview techniques, and job search strategies. These resources can enhance your preparedness for entering the job market.
Networking Opportunities: Networking is crucial in any field. By attending these events, you can build relationships with professionals who might offer guidance or mentorship as you navigate your career path.
3. Benefits of Networking Events
Building Professional Relationships: Networking events allow you to connect with peers and professionals in your field. Establishing these relationships can lead to internships or job opportunities down the line.
Learning from Others’ Experiences: Engaging in conversations with experienced professionals can provide insights into their career paths, challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. This knowledge can be invaluable as you consider your own future.
Expanding Your Knowledge Base: Networking events often include guest speakers or panels that discuss current trends in psychology or related fields. Staying informed about industry developments is essential for making informed career decisions.
4. Considerations Before Attending
While there are numerous benefits to attending career fairs and networking events, it’s important to approach them strategically:
Research Participants: Before attending an event, research which companies or professionals will be present. This will help you target your efforts toward those that align with your interests in psychology.
Prepare Your Materials: Have copies of your resume ready and prepare an elevator pitch that succinctly describes who you are and what you’re looking for in terms of opportunities.
Follow Up After the Event: After meeting professionals at these events, follow up with a thank-you email or LinkedIn connection request. This helps reinforce the relationship you’ve started building.
In conclusion, attending career fairs and networking events can be highly beneficial for a sophomore psychology student like yourself. They not only provide insight into potential career paths but also equip you with essential skills for job searching while allowing you to build a professional network that could support your future endeavors.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA provides extensive resources on careers in psychology including information on various specializations within the field and advice on professional development through networking.
2. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
NACE offers insights into best practices for college students regarding internships, job searching strategies, and the importance of networking in securing employment after graduation.
3. Psychology Today
Psychology Today features articles discussing various careers in psychology along with expert opinions on how networking plays a critical role in professional advancement within this field.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
307
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
Companies who do corporate social responsibility in some careers to organize career fairs and talent development programs. You can visit the website of such firms.
Some colleges do career advisory for their students through course counsellors. Why not try career counsellors or course advisors in your college?
Some educational programs are organized as webinars and other forms of outreach by educational institutions like collegeboard.com, City & Guilds and Pearson. Publishers of books like Taylor & Francis, Mc-Graw Hill, Cengage Learning, Wiley and more do course or career descriptions.
Professional organizations do career promotion events, such as career fairs and workshops to assist the public in appreciating and developing, assist in developing body of knowledge in certain careers. Why not try the review the study guide for your choice of career or the learning curriculum or the body of knowledge to gain keep re insight?
Some individual and organizations act as career ambassadors, mentors and sponsors in promotion certain professions as a cause. Some of them are foundations, volunteers, donors or partners that support students, early careers and educational institutions.
Peer networking such as student associations focused on various disciplines do encourage networking for career development.
You can learn learn more from career websites through their job descriptions and specifications. Betterman, LinkedIn, Monster, Indeed and others are good sources of such.
Some colleges do career advisory for their students through course counsellors. Why not try career counsellors or course advisors in your college?
Some educational programs are organized as webinars and other forms of outreach by educational institutions like collegeboard.com, City & Guilds and Pearson. Publishers of books like Taylor & Francis, Mc-Graw Hill, Cengage Learning, Wiley and more do course or career descriptions.
Professional organizations do career promotion events, such as career fairs and workshops to assist the public in appreciating and developing, assist in developing body of knowledge in certain careers. Why not try the review the study guide for your choice of career or the learning curriculum or the body of knowledge to gain keep re insight?
Some individual and organizations act as career ambassadors, mentors and sponsors in promotion certain professions as a cause. Some of them are foundations, volunteers, donors or partners that support students, early careers and educational institutions.
Peer networking such as student associations focused on various disciplines do encourage networking for career development.
You can learn learn more from career websites through their job descriptions and specifications. Betterman, LinkedIn, Monster, Indeed and others are good sources of such.
Tiffanie Rand (Lampasona), CDR, CIR
Recruiter
91
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Tiffanie’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth -
Attending a career fair offers great opportunities to network with potential employers, explore different industries, and learn about job openings all in one place. Networking is especially important in fields like psychology because it allows you to connect with professionals who can offer valuable insights into the industry, share advice, and even help you discover job opportunities that might not be advertised. Building these relationships can increase your chances of finding a job or gaining a deeper understanding of the field’s trends and challenges. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and stay informed about your career path!
Attending a career fair offers great opportunities to network with potential employers, explore different industries, and learn about job openings all in one place. Networking is especially important in fields like psychology because it allows you to connect with professionals who can offer valuable insights into the industry, share advice, and even help you discover job opportunities that might not be advertised. Building these relationships can increase your chances of finding a job or gaining a deeper understanding of the field’s trends and challenges. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and stay informed about your career path!
Diana Glauser
Sourcing Manager
2
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Diana’s Answer
Hello Elizabeth,
You've already received some excellent guidance, but I'd like to contribute my own insights as well. While my degree was in business and not your specific field, I believe there are universal aspects that apply. In essence, career fairs are indeed incredibly valuable, and here's why:
1) They provide a platform for interaction with recruiters and potential employers. This gives you a chance to refine your self-introduction and understand better what companies seek in prospective employees. It's also an excellent way to receive feedback on your resume and identify areas for improvement. As a recruiter for my company, I've always been more than willing to offer such feedback when approached by candidates.
2) They offer a fantastic networking platform. Companies often organize additional events alongside the career fair, such as information sessions. For instance, a company might host an informational "lunch and learn" on the same day as the career fair, providing you with more one-on-one time with companies you're interested in.
3) They grant access to extra preparation resources. Many universities conduct workshops on resume writing, interview preparation, appropriate attire, and more to ensure their students are well-prepared for the career fair. These workshops offer valuable tips and chances to enhance your skills.
4) They're not only beneficial for post-graduate careers but also for identifying internship opportunities. From my experience, having an internship related to your desired career or degree significantly boosts your chances when interviewing for full-time positions.
5) They can lead to full-time job opportunities. I landed my first job after college through my university's career fair, and many of my peers received their offers the same way.
6) They offer freebies (as Cliff pointed out). As a college student, it's always nice to get free pens, notebooks, snacks, and more.
As a sophomore, I highly recommend attending your university's career fairs. Wishing you the best of luck!
You've already received some excellent guidance, but I'd like to contribute my own insights as well. While my degree was in business and not your specific field, I believe there are universal aspects that apply. In essence, career fairs are indeed incredibly valuable, and here's why:
1) They provide a platform for interaction with recruiters and potential employers. This gives you a chance to refine your self-introduction and understand better what companies seek in prospective employees. It's also an excellent way to receive feedback on your resume and identify areas for improvement. As a recruiter for my company, I've always been more than willing to offer such feedback when approached by candidates.
2) They offer a fantastic networking platform. Companies often organize additional events alongside the career fair, such as information sessions. For instance, a company might host an informational "lunch and learn" on the same day as the career fair, providing you with more one-on-one time with companies you're interested in.
3) They grant access to extra preparation resources. Many universities conduct workshops on resume writing, interview preparation, appropriate attire, and more to ensure their students are well-prepared for the career fair. These workshops offer valuable tips and chances to enhance your skills.
4) They're not only beneficial for post-graduate careers but also for identifying internship opportunities. From my experience, having an internship related to your desired career or degree significantly boosts your chances when interviewing for full-time positions.
5) They can lead to full-time job opportunities. I landed my first job after college through my university's career fair, and many of my peers received their offers the same way.
6) They offer freebies (as Cliff pointed out). As a college student, it's always nice to get free pens, notebooks, snacks, and more.
As a sophomore, I highly recommend attending your university's career fairs. Wishing you the best of luck!