By: Bailey Talaska
The internship fair is an annual event hosted by CMU’s PRSSA chapter and the department of journalism. Companies from all over Michigan attend, providing students with networking and internship opportunities. Here are five things you should prepare to make it a successful experience.
1. Update resume
Before the internship fair you should update your resume, portfolio and business cards, so they are ready to go when the day comes. It doesn’t hurt to update your LinkedIn as well. You’ll want to have numerous copies of your resume and a stack of business cards to hand out to professionals. This will help to leave a tangible impression, advance the initial connection you made and maybe even land you an internship in the future.
2. Prepare an elevator pitch
An elevator pitch is a short summary of your background and experience to introduce yourself to professionals. You want to include things like your major, your past experiences and what you want to accomplish in the future. Practice what you will say in the mirror or with a friend so when the time comes you will be prepared and less nervous. Your pitch should last no longer than an elevator ride.
3. Look good, feel good
Having an appropriate outfit prepared will make you feel more confident and will leave a great impression on the companies who attend. Professional clothes can be expensive, so if you are in need of some schedule an appointment with First Impressions. Located in the University Center, they provide students with one free professional outfit each semester.
4. Research companies
Before attending the internship fair, dedicate some time to research the companies that will be attending. This will allow you to know what each company is about as well as which companies you may be interested in. Follow @cmuprssa on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for internship fair updates and for which Michigan companies will be there.
5. Have your thank you notes ready
To make a lasting impression on the companies you speak with it is important to follow up afterward. You can make it more personal by sending a handwritten thank you note. It not only makes a good impression on the company, but also helps you stand out and helps them remember you. Before the internship fair, buy stamps and some cards so you can send them out right after the event.
The 2019 internship fair is on Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the UC Rotunda. There will be more than 20 companies from around Michigan in the public relations, advertising, communications and marketing industries. Use these five tips to help you prepare and follow @PR_Central and @CMUPRSSA for more details.