Making the Most of Virtual Career and Job Fairs

Even though many students are away from campus this summer they can still take advantage of important services offered by the Internship and Career Center (ICC). For example, the ICC is hosting two strategically timed events to meet the needs of both employers and students. Both on and off campus employers are eager to connect with talented UC Davis students and alumni at our virtual fairs.

On-campus Student Employment Opportunities

New and continuing students can connect with on-campus departments at the Aggie Job Fair on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Student registration for this fair begins on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.

On-campus student jobs are wonderful experiences, especially for students looking for their first formal employment. Campus employers tend to understand the intricacies of being a student in a fast-paced quarter system while also being a part-time employee. And….you can’t beat the commute!

If your loved one is eligible for Work-Study via their financial aid package, all on-campus student jobs allow students to earn their Work-Study award. Visit Financial Aid’s Work-Study webpage for additional details.

Jobs, Internships and More!

Since many employers who hire UC Davis students kick off their recruitment season before our academic year begins, employers and students can connect in late summer at our Fall Virtual Career Fair on Wednesday, September 13th, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Student and alumni registration for this fair begins on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.

Starting to search for internships or career positions for summer 2024 this early will position your loved ones for success. Though we recommend engaging at any time, many firms make their hiring decisions for management training, rotation programs and internships by December. It is understood that those selected will not begin until the following summer.

A few key pieces of information regarding the virtual fairs:

• Virtual fairs take place on Handshake, an online platform for students to connect with employers.

• While Handshake is available as both a web application and a smartphone app, we recommend using the web application, preferably on Chrome or Firefox, for an optimal experience with the virtual fairs

• At the virtual fair, employers may offer 10 minute 1:1 sessions, 30 minute group sessions, or both! Remember, regardless of the format, these are all interviews, so be prepared to have a conversation about your qualifications and goals, even if they are still being formulated.

• Students (or alumni) need to review employers and sign up for sessions before the sessions begin, ideally ASAP. Students can sign up for as many sessions as they like, as long as the times do not overlap.

• A strong, reliable wifi connection, and distraction-free location with an appropriate background are essential.

• Participants are strongly encouraged to have their cameras on, and to be prepared to interact with employers over chat and video. ● For additional tips, review the ICC’s Virtual Fair Instructions webpage.

Our in-person, academic year career fairs will resume in October 2023. We hope to see you on-line and in-person!