Pitt job fair gives chance to network, make connections

Students searching for jobs handed out resumes and learned about opportunities at the Career… Students searching for jobs handed out resumes and learned about opportunities at the Career Fair yesterday in the William Pitt Union. Dressed to impress, more than 800 students attended the fair and spoke with representatives from 65 companies, many of whom were willing to offer advice to the hopeful students.

“Talk to everybody and anybody who will talk to you, don’t set any limits,” Greg Haas, a representative for Wolseley North America, said.

One of the biggest parts of the job application process is the resume. Representatives at the fair said strong resumes include organizations, extracurricular activities and leadership roles.

“Life is about more than school, it’s about who you have met along the way and how you have helped people,” Roman Matusz, a representative for the Mass Mutual Financial Group, said.

With companies receiving so many resumes, students have to make sure their resumes are as impressive and clear as possible.

“Students have to realize that they have 20 seconds to make an impression with their resume,” Mary Beth Kuszajewski, a technical recruiter for Oxford Solutions, said.

Overall, the representatives at the Career Fair were more focused on the interview process and how well students presented themselves.

“Most resumes are looking the same, so at the fair you get to talk to the representatives. Companies look for people who are confident and articulate,” Laura Arrigo, a senior consultant for the Duggan Rhodes Group, said.

Duggan also noted the importance of researching the company beforehand and asking questions.

During interviews, interpersonal skills are paramount. Every representative stressed the importance of the first impression: articulation, eye contact, manners, honesty, professional clothing and good questions.

“During your interview, the best advice I can give you is to be prepared,” Kuszajewski said. “Do research beforehand and be ready to ask three to five questions. Also, ask the interviewer why they like working for the company. Everyone likes talking about themselves.”

Kuszajewski also mentioned the importance of appearance. Professional clothing should be worn, tattoos covered up, long hair pulled back, sideburns shaved and overall neatness and cleanliness presented on all fronts.

“If you want a professional job, it is up to you to look professional,” she said.

Students attending the fair were enthusiastic and encouraged by the opportunities offered by the companies.

“It’s a great experience to be able to speak with a representative. It makes you feel more comfortable, and you can get a feel for the company through the representative,” Stephanie Buzard, a junior marketing major, said.

“I’m here to see my options,” Nicole Brichacek, a sophomore chemical engineering major, said. “I want to make sure that my major is what I want to do. I want to see what kinds of jobs are available and what I would be doing with my major.”

She added that she feels optimistic after seeing her options.

“A lot of companies who are hiring are willing to take people without a lot of experience. They understand that we’re college students.”

Nancy Cifrulak, Career Services special events coordinator, urged students to attend, even if they weren’t ready to look for a job yet.

“The companies are here to hire, and the jobs are here. They just need the students to show up,” she said. “You can just come and walk through here and look to see what is going on. It’s not just for seniors, it’s for everybody, and all are welcome.”

The Career Fair continues today in the William Pitt Union from 10 a.m. to 3:30, p.m., and 93 companies will be represented.