Are you planning to attend the HELPS Fair? We hosted a workshop to help you prepare for the event, including how to research participating employers, update your resume, practice your professional introduction or elevator pitch, and confidently connect with recruiters in the Healthcare, Education, Legal, and Public Service/Non-Profit sectors. Below you will find a summary of the workshop, and you can view the recording for more information.
Listen the Prepare for HELPS Fair workshop recording on Zoom
Have questions about the HELPS Fair or want 1-on-1 support with your preparation? Schedule a Career Planning appointment through Gator CareerLink.
Meet the Presenters and Panelists
The workshop was led by Career Pathways Manager Jillian Prescott and Senior Manager Brendan Daigle, who provided strategies and resources to help students feel confident and prepared for the fair
Students also heard from professionals representing key HELPS sectors:
Northwestern Mutual
Catherine Fuccillo, Campus Recruiter
A University of Florida alumna with a bachelor’s degree in Education Sciences and minors in Business Administration and Innovation, Catherine oversees recruitment for offices across Long Island, NYC, and Connecticut. She recruits interns for the Financial Representative Internship Program and shared insights on how preparation, professionalism, and thoughtful follow-up can help students stand out.
United States Army Medical Department
Lieutenant Kelly Dietrick, Medical Recruiter
Commissioned through Army ROTC at Nova Southeastern University, LT Dietrick currently leads the Gainesville Medical Recruiting Station as Officer in Charge. With experience serving in multiple healthcare and leadership roles, she discussed scholarship pathways, leadership development, and the wide range of medical careers available through Army service.
Peace Corps
Charlie Hochfelder, Campus Recruiter
Based at the UF International Center, Charlie advises students interested in international service opportunities. A former Peace Corps Volunteer in Uganda, he encouraged students to connect their academic background, leadership experiences, and global interests to meaningful service pathways.
Workshop Highlights
Career Fair Preparation Strategies
Jillian and Brendan emphasized the importance of preparation before attending the HELPS Fair. Students were encouraged to:
- Research employers through Gator CareerLink
- Identify priority organizations
- Tailor and update their resumes
- Prepare thoughtful questions
- Practice a confident, conversational professional introduction
Preparation not only strengthens conversations with recruiters but also helps reduce nerves on the day of the fair.
Researching Employers with Gator CareerLink
Students were guided through strategies for navigating Gator CareerLink to:
- Review registered employers
- Filter by industry or opportunity type
- Learn about open positions
- Make notes about organizations of interest
Understanding an organization’s mission, programs, and recruitment focus can help students demonstrate genuine interest and ask informed questions.
Resume, Professional Introduction, and Following Up
Panelists emphasized the importance of bringing a polished, tailored resume that clearly highlights relevant skills and experiences. Key reminders included:
- Keep resumes concise and error-free
- Align experiences with career interests
- Highlight transferable skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability
Students were also encouraged to dress professionally and prepare a strong elevator pitch that includes their major, career interests, and relevant experiences.
After the fair, follow up within 24–48 hours, monitor email and voicemail for next steps, and apply to opportunities discussed during conversations.
Next Steps
- Research employers and decide whom you want to meet
- Update and upload your resume to Gator CareerLink
- Prepare professional attire
- Practice your professional introduction
- Develop questions for the organizations you plan to visit
- Follow up after the fair
The HELPS Fair is an opportunity to explore career paths, build professional confidence, and connect with organizations making an impact across healthcare, education, legal services, and public service.
We look forward to seeing you there.
