First-Year Students: Why You Belong at the Career Fair
As career fairs kick off this fall, it is tempting for first-year students to think, “I’m a first-year and no one is going to hire me so why bother?” The truth is very different.
Attending the career fair early is not about simply walking away with a job offer. It is about learning the rhythm of professional life. By strolling the aisles, listening in on conversations, and practicing how to introduce yourself, you begin to understand what employers are looking for and how you might one day fit the bill.
The Elevator Pitch: Your First Real Impression
Your résumé is important, but your first real impression comes from your elevator pitch, that quick introduction after the handshake that sets the tone for everything else. To borrow from Eminem:
“You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime.”
When I recruit, I do not expect students to have years of experience. What I look for is curiosity, preparation, and a spark of confidence. I’ve had a student come up and ask, “So, uh, what does your company do?” That conversation last about 14 seconds. On the flip side, another student introduced herself with energy, explained why she was interested in our work, and asked a thoughtful question about a project. She had no prior internships, but she stood out. Guess who I remembered when I was looking for candidates the following summer.
What Goes into a Strong Pitch
The biggest mistake is showing up unprepared. Instead of vague questions, try something intentional, such as:
“Hi, my name is John, and I am a first-year student in Electrical Engineering. I saw that your company is recruiting interns in this area, which connects with my interest in [insert focus area]. On campus, I have been involved with [insert club or organization], which has strengthened my skills in [insert skill]. I also enrolled in the Engineering Design Seminar, where I am gaining hands-on experience in [insert skill]. That is why I wanted to connect with you today.”
That kind of introduction shows you took the time to prepare. Recruiters notice.
Learning to Navigate Opportunities
Career fairs are not just one-shot auditions for a job. They are practice fields. Every handshake, every conversation, every moment you stumble but recover makes you stronger. By the time you are a sophomore or junior, you will not just be attending the fair, you will be walking in with a game plan, shaking hands with confidence, and leaving an impression that lasts.
Why Start Now?
The earlier you start, the more natural it becomes. Each career fair adds new tools: sharper questions, stronger pitches, and the confidence that comes from practice. That is how you transform from “just a first-year” into someone employers are excited to meet.
So go ahead, first-years. Step up to the booth, introduce yourself, and take your shot. You may land an internship on day one, you may not. But regardless, you will gain experience that pays off later. And as Eminem reminds us:
“You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime.”
Make the most of Career Fair. This is your moment to start shaping your future.