In-person conferences, conventions and career fairs are back in full swing! Which is both exciting and, understandably, nerve wracking – considering many of us still feel like social newborns after the tumultuous two years we just had.
Good news: those who successfully navigated the convention scene have left you a map so that you can conquer these settings too #throwbackthursday. And like an archeologist digging up ancient texts, I dove deep into the CSE Archives to uncover these hidden gems..
Yvette Smith ’20, MA’21 and Moyinoluwa Abiola MSF’20 at the 2019 ALPFA Convention
Advice from Student Attendees of the ALPFA 2019 In-Person Convention
Following the last in-person ALPFA Convention (2019), we asked the students who attended what their advice was for future conference attendees. Although these are directly related to their ALPFA Convention experience, every single piece of advice is applicable to all upcoming conferences this year. Take a look:
The #1 Piece of Advice We Received From Conference Attendees? Research, Research and More Research
For any conference, convention or career fair – whether it’s a few hours or a whole week – it is important that you research the list of companies that will be in attendance, investigate AND APPLY to the open positions that are of interest to you, and compile a list of questions specifically for each company that you hope to speak to at the conference.
Directly from past conference attendees:
Research and apply to open positions BEFORE the event
“I applied to all the positions I wanted at the companies I was interested in beforehand so that my application was there and ready to go when I got to ALPFA, and so I could network by asking questions about the role (and so I was in the system when they pulled resumes).”
Generate a list of questions/talking points for each employer of interest
“I also prepared ahead of time learning about the companies I was interested in and practicing speaking about my drive, my career vision, my skills and why I’m right for these roles, as well as a list of questions to ask in networking (both a general list and a specific list for each employer that I was interested in).”
Try to find out which companies are hiring graduate students specifically:
“I would suggest students research the positions that are open for grad students and target these companies first and go to their workshops and events, and talk with other companies during the career fair. I connected with most of the people during the fair.”
If applicable, research which companies sponsor international students:
“Most international students did not know before the convention which companies sponsor internationals. There is a public list from the US government of the companies that sponsored in 2018”. Note from CSE – you can also review the H-1B Data Hub for more updated information.
Other Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Prepare and practice your Elevator Pitch
- Pack the appropriate clothing: “I don’t recommend that people pack jeans; everyone dresses sharp ALL the time.”
- Create and follow a checklist “of “must haves” (attire, attitude, biz cards, etc.)”
- Know your story, define your passions, be enthusiastic
- Practice your small talk
- Print and bring at least 10 copies of your resume and order business cards
CSE Resources and Recommended Articles to Help You Prepare
An Expert Convention Packing List — How to Travel Like a Pro
“Got a trade show or conference coming up? Whether it’s your first or five hundred and first, planning ahead and being prepared are key to getting the most of your experience…Make your list and check it twice — and don’t forget to leave space to bring any new treasures home. Your list of basics should include:”
How to Navigate Interviews as an International Candidate
You just got a call or an email from a recruiter: you’re invited to an interview. You’re excited but also nervous at the same time. How am I going to talk about my status as an international candidate?…
It is important to develop and practice a brief, compelling introduction of yourself – your “Elevator Pitch” – and adapt its details for different professional situations.
Tips and Tricks for Using Big Interview – Interview Practice
Interview Jitters? Never heard of them! Just kidding… Pre-interview nerves are totally normal, but never fear, Big Interview is here! If you have an interview coming up, set yourself up for success using Big Interview. Not sure where to start? …
Not sure what to wear? Whether it’s the morning of an interview, or you’re revamping your wardrobe for that new job offer, deciding what to wear can be tough. Don’t worry, the CSE has you covered! Check out these Business attire guides, brought to you by our Career Captain Team
Finally, connect with your career coach a week or two before the conference. They are your #1 resource for developing a career strategy and can give you one-on-one suggestions for your unique journey. Good luck!
