Diversity Career Day 2012

Getting Started on the Path to Success:

Attend Diversity Career Day at UVA!

By: Kathleen Herring, Career Services

                Every fall, the University of Virginia hosts its Diversity Career Day to help Virginia college students network with potential job contacts and employers.  With over 150 corporations, non-profit organizations and government agencies represented, there is no better opportunity to meet and talk with employers in person, learn about different organizations and positions, and make meaningful networking connections for your future job search!

                Not sure what you want to do after graduation?  No problem.  Career fairs are a perfect way to explore career options, learn about the types of jobs and companies that are out there, and clarify your personal goals in terms of what skills and experiences could best help you reach your ideal career path.  The fair is also a perfect place to practice your networking, interviewing and self-marketing skills, which will help you in whatever career path you intend to pursue in the future.  It is never too early to start thinking about your career, and all students are invited to attend this event.              

Carmen Moyer, who attended last year’s fair as a senior and is now working on her Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology at East Carolina University, had the following to say about the experience:  “I really feel like today has been a great opportunity and would be a great opportunity for any student who’s looking for a future career or options within their major choice for future careers.  Even if you don’t have things that you’re specifically looking for, you can just gain information and find out what these companies are all about, which could help you down the road to furthering your career.”

You may prepare for this career fair in many ways.  Possibly the most important thing to consider when attending any networking function is making a good first impression – this includes dressing professionally and bringing copies of your resume.  There are many helpful resources on the event’s website, including a searchable list of attending employers, a useful flyer on how to navigate the fair, sample questions to ask recruiters, and tips on how to act and dress for the day to look your best.  One recommendation is to prepare a 30-second personal introduction that highlights your skills, knowledge and areas of interest.  This is the best way to appear prepared in front of any potential employers or networking contacts and to make a lasting first impression.  The website can be found here: http://www.career.virginia.edu/students/events/dcd.php.

Anthony Hammer, who attended last year’s fair as a Junior, said that “Coming here, I didn’t know what to expect… Looking at all the options that are available was good because that is what’s going to help you find a job.  Come here, see what’s available, and broaden your horizons – you never know what’s going to happen past college and this is a great way to open those doors for you.”

[Bridgewater College students at the 2011 Diversity Career Day]

                This year’s Diversity Career Day will take place on Wednesday, October 24^th from 10am to 3pm at the John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville.  If you would like to attend and want to take advantage of our free shuttle service, please contact the Office of Career Services (ocs@bridgewater.edu) to reserve a spot in the shuttle (which will be leaving from the KCC at 9:00am).  There will also be a Career Services “Chomp-N-Chat” the day before (Tuesday, October 23^rd from 12-2pm in Flory 14) where you can ask Sherry questions about the fair, bring a copy of your resume for review, and enjoy some free pizza!  We hope to see you there!