UIUC Engineering Career Fair

Event Details

The UIUC Engineering Career Fair is an annual event that brings together hundreds of employers and thousands of students from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s College of Engineering. The fair is a great opportunity for students to network with potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and get their resumes in front of recruiters.

The 2023 Engineering Career Fair will be held on Wednesday, September 13, from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at the Illini Union.

How to Prepare

Here are a few tips on how to prepare for the Engineering Career Fair:

Do your research. Before the fair, take some time to research the companies that will be attending. This will help you identify the companies that you’re most interested in and the positions that you’re qualified for.
Prepare your resume and cover letter. Make sure your resume and cover letter are up-to-date and tailored to the jobs you’re applying for. You can get help with your resume and cover letter from the Career Center.
Practice your elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a brief, 30-second introduction that you can use to tell employers about yourself and your qualifications. Practice your elevator pitch so that you can deliver it confidently and clearly.
Dress professionally. You want to make a good impression on potential employers, so dress professionally for the fair.

What to Expect

On the day of the fair, come prepared to meet with a lot of people. You’ll have the opportunity to network with employers from a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, biotechnology, chemical, civil, computer science, electrical, environmental, industrial, materials science, mechanical, nuclear, and systems engineering.

You’ll also have the chance to learn about different job opportunities, including internships, co-ops, and full-time positions. Many employers will be conducting on-site interviews, so be prepared to answer questions about your skills and experience.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips for success at the Engineering Career Fair:

Arrive early. The fair gets crowded quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid long lines.
Target the companies you’re interested in. Don’t try to talk to every employer at the fair. Instead, focus on the companies that you’re most interested in and the positions that you’re qualified for.
Be prepared to answer questions. Employers will likely ask you about your skills, experience, and career goals. Be prepared to answer these questions clearly and concisely.
Ask questions. Don’t just answer questions—ask questions of your own. This shows that you’re interested in the company and the position. It also gives you an opportunity to learn more about the company and the culture.
Follow up after the fair. After the fair, follow up with the employers that you met with. Thank them for their time and let them know that you’re interested in the position. You can also send them a copy of your resume and cover letter.

Conclusion

The Engineering Career Fair is a great opportunity to network with potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and get your resume in front of recruiters. By following these tips, you can make the most of your experience at the fair.