By Julie Deacon, digital communications intern

The Fall 2024 Computer Science Career Fair, held recently in the Squires Colonial Ballroom, welcomed over 1,200 students and more than 80 company representatives. The bi-annual event allowed computer science students to connect with potential employers about full-time jobs and paid internships. 

This year, 23 companies participated, with nearly 90 recruiters engaging directly with students. Some of them, including MITRE, RGi, Peraton, CoStar, American Systems, and CACI, partner closely with the Department of Computer Science throughout the year and offer resume reviews, technical workshops, panel discussions, and other professional development opportunities, said Joan Watson, director of administrative operations for the department.

“We hope students will use their experiences at the fair to motivate themselves to engage in projects and research that build and showcase their skills. It’s also a learning experience that can improve their resumes and elevator pitches for future opportunities,” Watson said.

Employers benefit from career fairs, too, as they get access to a talented pipeline of computer science students and can meet many job candidates face-to-face in one location. 

To facilitate these mutually beneficial interactions, the department has developed its CS/Source company membership program. Companies join the program, providing financial resources for student scholarships, and in return get closer ties to the department and its students.

Computer science career fairs have been held for nearly 30 years at Virginia Tech, evolving to include a range of professional development programming each semester. Up to 29% of students who connect with companies during the fair are offered paid internships, while up to 20% receive full-time job offers, Watson said.

The university offers resume workshops, information sessions, mock career fairs to help students practice, employer panels for industry insights, and more. On average, 70% of students attending the CS|Source career fairs reported feeling prepared for success, according to survey results provided by Watson.

Claire Skirkey, strategic relationships manager for the department, works with CS|Source companies and emphasized the importance of attending these events. 

“Even if students don’t find immediate opportunities, the career fair is crucial for refining their resumes and elevator pitches, and enhancing their readiness for future job prospects,” Shirkey said.

The computer science department hosts fall and spring career fairs each academic year. Watson said information on the spring career fair and professional development opportunities for students in the Metro D.C. area will be released soon.