Students and alumni in education and related fields have an opportunity to connect with school districts at the Education Career Fair on Tuesday, February 28, from 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m. in the Bone Student Center. Administrators, superintendents, and other employers from the field of education will be identifying candidates for their open positions.
The Education Career Fair is an excellent opportunity for students to meet with those who are hiring candidates for the fall. However, the event is not just for those who are graduating. “It is important that students from all class standings attend the Education Fair, including non-seniors,” said Career Advisor Renee Carrigan. “This allows students who may not necessarily be looking for a job right now to be able to meet employers, find out what skills they are looking for, and get a perspective of how the career fair works. It’s their chance to get a sneak peek into their job search without the pressure of needing to get a job right away.”
Fair preparation
Students attending the Education Career Fair are invited to InstaCareer, a career preparation session on Monday, February 13, from 4–7 p.m. in the Bone Student Center. Participants rotate through various stations to learn firsthand from recruiters how to properly introduce themselves to employers, make a good first impression, dress appropriately, research companies and positions, and follow up with employers after career events.
In addition to InstaCareer, the Career Center is also hosting Hiring Tips for Education Majors the night before the Education Career Fair from 7–8 p.m. in 206 DeGarmo Hall. A panel of school administrators will share what sets teacher candidates apart when reviewing resumes and cover letters, general expectations of them at career fairs, how to complete online applications, and how districts manage job offers. Students will also have the opportunity to network with the speakers, as time permits.
The Career Center provides a number of resources to help students to prepare for connecting with employers at the Education Career Fair:
- Career Resource Guide—Located on the Career Center website, this booklet is filled with helpful tips and advice such as how to construct an effective resume/CV and cover letter, commonly asked interview questions, and more.
- Drop-in hours and Late-night Resume/LinkedIn Reviews—Receive quick feedback or helpful tips from trained Career Center representatives.
- Career fair online video—Discover what a fair is like and useful tips when attending.
- Illinois State University App—Visit the App store, search for the official Illinois State University App, then download the Career Center Guide to view a list of employers attending and the fairs, scan their open positions, and see where they are located at the fair.
- Resume paper and printing, and business cards—These supplies are also available free to current Illinois State students to help them put their best foot forward at the fair.
- Social media—The Career Center is on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and uses social media to provide fair updates and helpful preparation tips.
For more information or to request special accommodations to attend this event, visit the Education Career Fair online.
