From First-Gen to First Hire: Navigating Career Fairs with Confidence
Career fair season is here!! For many first-generation college students, it can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. You might be the first in your family to attend college and now, you’re also navigating a professional space that can be intimidating. But here’s the truth: you belong in these rooms. You have worked hard to get here, and with the right preparation, you can walk into a career fair feeling confident, focused, and ready to build your future.
Whether you are attending your first career fair or looking to level up your approach, here’s a guide to help you prepare intentionally and stand out as a first-gen student.
1. Shift Your Mindset: From Imposter to Asset
Start by reminding yourself that being first-generation is a strength. You’ve developed resilience, problem-solving, and persistence simply by making it to college. These are exactly the kinds of qualities employers are looking for. Reframe any imposter feelings as fuel for preparation. Your story is powerful. Learn how to tell it!
2. Research Employers Ahead of Time
Career fairs often have a list of participating companies and organizations available in advance. Don’t walk in blind.
· Make a shortlist of 5–7 companies that align with your interests.
· Read their mission statements, along with learning about their current openings and internship programs
· Prepare 1–2 questions to ask recruiters that go beyond, “What does your company do?”
3. Craft and Practice Your Elevator Pitch
This is your 30-second introduction: who you are, what you are studying, and what you are seeking.
Example: “Hi, my name is Charmaine Troy. I am a junior majoring in Industrial Engineering at North Carolina State University, and I am passionate about supply chain innovation and operations research. I am currently seeking a summer internship where I can apply data analysis to solve real-world logistics challenges.”
Practice your pitch out loud, and adapt it slightly depending on the company you are speaking to.
4. Update and Print Your Résumé
Bring multiple copies of a polished, one-page résumé. If you have limited professional experience, emphasize:
Leadership roles in student organizations
Volunteer work
Class projects or capstone work
Relevant coursework or technical skills
Your story as a first-gen student (if applicable)
Bonus tip: Include a QR code to your LinkedIn (make sure you have a professional headshot with a white background) or portfolio if you have one.
5. Dress Professionally and Comfortably
First impressions matter, but you don’t need a $500 suit to make one. Wear clean, business casual or business professional attire that fits well and feels like you.
For example:
Blazer or collared shirt
Slacks, skirt, or professional dress
Closed-toe shoes
Minimal accessories
6. Bring a Career Fair Toolkit
Here’s what to carry:
Folder or portfolio for résumés
Pen and notepad
Breath mints (not gum!)
Water bottle
Charged phone for LinkedIn connects or follow-ups
Also, don’t forget your smile and positive energy. Recruiters remember authenticity. And a smile goes a long way!
7. Ask Strong, Thoughtful Questions
Go beyond “what jobs are you hiring for?” Try:
“What makes a candidate stand out in your application process?”
“How does your company support early-career professionals?”
These show you are engaged, informed, and thinking about fit, not just any job.
8. Follow Up Within 48 Hour
After the fair:
Send a thank-you email or LinkedIn message to each recruiter you connected with.
Mention something you talked about and re-attach your résumé.
Express your continued interest and ask about next steps if appropriate.
This simple step puts your name back on their radar. Too many students skip it this step.
9. Leverage Campus Resources
You don’t have to do this alone. Use:
Career Services (attend résumé reviews, mock interviews, and workshops). Get your professional headshots taken there, if they provide them.
Connect with your first-gen peer mentors (or any peer mentor) for advice.
Professors and mentors who can give you advice and practice opportunities
Your network is often your secret weapon. Start using it now.
10. Reflect and Grow
After the fair, take time to reflect:
What went well?
Where did you feel uncertain?
What questions caught you off guard?
Who should you follow up with again in a few months?
Every career fair is a chance to grow. Keep showing up and keep improving.
Career fairs are more than just events. They are gateways to opportunities, conversations, and networks that can shape your future. As a first-gen student, you are not just breaking barriers; you're building bridges for others who will follow. So suit up, take a deep breath, and step into that fair like you own the room! Because guess what?
You do.
#FirstGenTalks Action Step of the Month: Attend your school’s upcoming career fair and connect with at least three employers. Then, message them on LinkedIn within 48 hours.
Let us know how it goes! Tag us on Instagram @firstgentalksatl and use #CareerReadyFirstGen!
