Career Fair SZN: Survive, Thrive & Secure the Bag
It’s that time of year again. The gym is filled with resumés and anxiety. Lanyards are flying, business cards are ready (and maybe dropping out the case), and somewhere a recruiter is on their seventh “So tell me about yourself and what you’re interested in.”
Welcome to Career Fair SZN…the Business Hunger Games. Your goal? Survive the small talk, thrive under pressure and most importantly, SECURE THE BAG!
Prep Like a Pro
Research, research, research. Research the companies that you actually want to talk to, not just the ones with the biggest names or longest lines. Know what they do, what they stand for, and how you might fit in. With that said, don’t over-script your day. Leave room to explore. Sometimes the best opportunities come from the tables you didn’t plan to stop at.
And while we’re here, let’s discuss wardrobe. Dress codes have evolved and will always vary based on industry, location, etc. Recruiters know that you’re students and have different schedules that involve sprinting between class and the career fair. We’re not expecting you to pull up in a tailored suit (unless you are attending the illustrious Hampton University— my alma mater lol). Just don’t show up like you're headed to the gym or a frat party. For the fellas: maybe skip the deep cut tank tops. Ladies, save the halter and crop top for later. The goal is to be intentional, not perfect.
When I was in school (shoutout to my HBCU fam), business professional meant full stop dark colored suits with a collared white or powder blue button up. Did I mention pantyhose and skirts for the ladies (ugh…ANNOYING!)?! But times have changed. Recruiters know accessibility looks different now. You just need to look like you tried.
Elevator Pitch
Can I be honest with y’all for a second? As a recruiter, I cringe at scripted, memorized elevator pitches. It sounds unnatural. No matter how many mock session or “practice rounds” rounds your schools runs, it never fully sticks. That’s because it shouldn’t be memorized. It should feel like a conversation, not a performance.
Here’s the trick— hit at least three key notes and leave room for authenticity.
Who are you? “I’m a third-year business student at Hampton University.”
What are you interested in? “I’m interested in internships that blend creativity with strategy.”
What do you care about? Make it personal. “I’ve always loved reading sci-fi books growing up, so I’ve been exploring marketing and love how storytelling drives connection.”
Keep it cute. Keep it casual. If a recruiter mentions they’re a Lebron fan, lean in. Say something real (even if it’s a dig a Lebron and you’re a Steph Curry fan). Human connection lands harder than robotic talking points. You’re not selling a product, you’re giving a preview of who you are.
It’s a Two-Way Street
Recruiting isn’t just for the company. You’re interviewing them too.
If a recruiter seems distracted, dismissive, uninterested, or even uninformed…take note. That moment tells you a lot about how they represent their company’s culture and how they may handle your career if you go to work for them. A great employer will put their best people forward, especially when they’re trying to attract you.
Don’t chase internships that pay in exposure. Exposure doesn’t pay for your textbooks or tuition. Sure unpaid roles can lead to great experience, but if you’re counting coins to make it through the semester, prioritize opportunities that compensate your time and respect your hustle.
A good internship gives you both: experience and equity. The kind that adds value to your career and your wallet.
I’m Just Sayin’
Career fairs aren’t about perfection. They’re about preparation, exposure, presence and purpose. Research smart, be strategic, show up with confidence, and remember the power dynamic isn’t one- sided. You bring something to the table as well: perspective, ambition and fresh ideas. And if this week’s fair doesn’t land you that dream internship? Cool. The follow-up game is where the magic happens.
At The Dezonie Collective (TDC), we bridge the gap between schools, students, and employers. We ensure you show up ready, informed and confident about your next step. Whether it’s understanding how recruiters think or learning how to build relationships that last beyond the fair, we make sure you’re not just another resume in the pile.
