More than 400 students browsed the career options of 90 employers on Oct. 24 at Eastern Connecticut State University’s fall career and internship fair. The fair was a chance for students to explore employment and internship opportunities, as well as to pitch résumés and network with business representatives.

Companies in attendance spanned many industries, from Mohegan Sun casino and resort to Travelers Insurance. The fair was organized into categories, such as education, finance, medical and the armed services. Students were given packets with résumé and interview tips, as well as an opportunity to take professional headshots for their LinkedIn profiles.

Students were encouraged to dress well for good first impressions with potential employers, and to bring plenty of résumés. Those who had attended the career-fair boot camp the previous week were advised to research the companies that interested them and to ask employer representatives plenty of questions.

“We really try to prepare students,” said Lana O’Conner, administrative assistant for the Center of Internships and Career Development, the fair’s organizing department. “Everyone gets a packet with a list of employers and floorplan of the fair, as well as contact information for the companies. We also emphasize how to practice your ‘pitch’ when meeting potential employers; making a strong introduction is key.”

Jhanvi Shah ’20, a junior business administration major, has attended several career fairs in the past, but as graduation approaches next academic year, she now finds them to be more valuable. “Don’t remind me,” she laughed. “I’m getting close to graduating, and I don’t want to think about it. But these events are really helpful for making connections. I talked with a lot of people in my field. Maybe I’ll find an internship that can help me get a job after I graduate.”