Tips to Prepare for the Professional and Graduate School Fair (PGSF)

Professional and Graduate School Fair - November 6th, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Courtyard and 1st Floor, K-State Student Union

We know that networking with admissions representatives from health and law programs can feel intimidating, so the information and videos below are here to help set you up for success at this year’s Professional and Graduate School Fair!

Before the Fair

Research the Schools:

• Identify which schools will be attending and research their programs. Understand their requirements, strengths, and what makes them unique.
• How to View and Research Programs Attending PGSF in Handshake (video)
• 2024 List of Programs Sorted by Pre-Professional Designation

Prepare Your Elevator Pitch:

• Craft a brief introduction about yourself; include your name, year in school, major, career interest, why you are pursuing that career, significant work/volunteer/leadership experiences, and other information you feel is important for people to know about you.
• How to Start Conversations with Program Representatives at PGSF (video)

Bring Necessary Materials:

• Feel free to bring copies of your resume, but it is not expected.
• To get started on a resume, consider using a resume template. For resume assistance, visit the Career Center.

What to Wear:

• Casual attire is welcome! You do not need to dress in business attire for this event.
• Stop by the Career Closet for free attire and accessories. Available at the Career Center, Monday-Friday from 8:00am-5:00pm.

During the Fair

Be Confident and Approachable:

• Smile, make eye contact, and be professional, but be yourself too! Let your personality shine through (as appropriate).
• Bring a non-disruptive fidget item with you to help redirect some of your nervous energy. If the fidget item appears to be a distraction while talking with program representatives, place the toy behind your back or have it right by your side. You can even say, “I am excited to see you today, but also a little nervous. I have this fidget toy with me but let me know if it gets distracting.”

Ask Thoughtful Questions:

• Prepare specific questions about the programs, faculty, research opportunities, clinical experiences, and student life. This shows your genuine interest and preparation.
• 10 Questions to Ask Health and Law Programs at PGSF (video)

Listen Actively:

• Pay attention, nod in good gesture, and provide feedback.

Take Notes:

• Jot down key points from your conversations.
• Ask for business cards to gather important contact information.

Show Enthusiasm:

• Express your passion for the field and enthusiasm about their program. This can make you memorable.

After the Fair

Reflect on Your Experience:

• Review your notes and reflect on the conversations you had. Identify any gaps in your knowledge or areas where you need further information.

Plan Your Next Steps:

• Use the information you gathered to refine your application strategy and prepare for potential interviews.

Meet with your Career Advisor and/or Pre-Professional Advisor if you have any questions or want to practice your elevator pitch!

 

**Blog written in collaboration with Chloe Wurst, Assistant Director at the KSU Career Center.