Greenlee School to host Jump-Start Internship and Networking Fair Oct. 17

CATEGORIES: News, Students
The Jump-Start Internship and Networking, hosted in the fall and spring by the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication, connects employers who are looking for interns in communications fields with Iowa State students. Photo by Emily Blobaum

The Greenlee School will host the Jump-Start Internship and Networking Fair from noon-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2018, in the Memorial Union Great Hall.

In its seventh semester, this boutique-style fair offers Iowa State University students the opportunity to connect with dozens of employers offering internships and jobs in journalism, advertising, public relations and other related fields.

In addition to two preparatory workshops (see more information below), this semester’s Jump-Start Fair will feature two new opportunities for students.

Students who are new to the fair can participate in a Jump-Start introductory tour, which allows them to visit with several employers in a group setting rather than alone. Sign up to join a tour in 101 Hamilton Hall.

By attending the fair or either of the two workshops, students will also have the chance to sign up to win a door prize, including two sets of tickets to a concert of their choice provided by First Fleet Concerts, one of the employers that will be in attendance.

The Greenlee School requires a 400-hour professional capstone internship of all its majors, and it remains committed to providing resources to help students in this endeavor.

The fair is one of the best ways for students to learn about opportunities available locally and regionally, many of which meet the school’s internship requirement, said Juli Probasco-Sowers, the Greenlee School’s internship coordinator.

“The Jump-Start Fair is another tool in the internship toolbox, and it’s one that students should take advantage of by attending,” said Probasco-Sowers. “Whether you’re a freshman or sophomore who is just testing the internship waters, a junior or senior who’s ready to complete your required internship for credit or a go-getter who is looking for a second or third internship, you’ll find this fair is worth your time.”

Students: How to Prepare

Before the Fair

1. Attend the Jump-Start Workshops. Two sessions will be offered this semester, including:

    Internship Safari: Finding the Elusive Internship

    Oct. 2, 5-7 p.m. | 172 Hamilton Hall

    Get the top tips and tricks for snagging an internship. Brainstorm your internship search strategy, establish a game plan for the internship fair and learn how to make use of LinkedIn and other resources. Be sure to bring your laptop.

    Will I Have to Make Coffee? Workplace Expectations from Start to Finish

    Oct. 10, 5-7 p.m. | 172 Hamilton Hall

    Not sure what to expect from an internship? In this workshop, you will learn how to navigate a professional experience, from what you should wear, how you should communicate with your supervisor and how you can approach challenges in the workplace.

2. Update your resume and bring enough copies.

3. Do your research.

  • Visit CyHire for the most updated list of employers that will be in attendance.
  • View or print a spreadsheet listing the employers that will be in attendance. Updated October 15, 2018
  • Highlight the companies you would like to connect with, and conduct further research on each organization.
  • View a map of the fair to locate the employers you’d like to visit. Updated October 17, 2018

4. Dress for success.

  • Plan your outfit ahead of time.
  • Dress in business casual attire. (Dress slacks/pants, dress shirt or blouse, blazer or cardigan)
  • Arrive well-groomed, and avoid any distracting accessories and/or makeup.

5. Practice, practice, practice.

  • Practice your elevator speech before the fair. Your speech should include your name, major, year in school and what positions you are seeking.
  • Prepare to ask the employer follow-up questions, such as:
    • What do you look for in an intern?
    • How can I apply for this position?
    • Can the intern use the position for academic credit?

During the Fair

1. Make a game plan.

  • Allocate enough time to visit with each company or organization you are interested in.
  • Use your time wisely by viewing the map of Fall 2018 Jump-Start Internship and Networking Fair, which will be available on the Greenlee website a couple days before the fair.

2. Remain confident and enthusiastic.

  • Smile and be confident when you speak with employers.
  • Don’t be afraid to speak about your experience and how you are qualified for a position.

After the Fair

1. Follow up with the employers you visit at the fair.

  • Send a thank-you note and express your interest in working for them.

2. Begin the application process.

  • Start applying for the position online or send your application materials to the employee you connected with.

3. Make use of other fair preparation resources:

Employers: How to Register

By attending this free event, employers have the opportunity to get the word out about their company/organization, network with dozens of talented students and walk away with handfuls of resumes from promising candidates.

Employer registration is now open through Oct. 10, 2018. For more information, contact Juli Probasco-Sowers, Greenlee School internship coordinator, at julip@iastate.edu or 515-294-4342.