Job Fair: the Movie Script

August 1, 2025 | John Suarez | Blog, Résumé Writing

FADE IN:

1. INT. COLLEGE CAREER SERVICES OFFICE

Jordan, a college junior majoring in Communications, walks into the office of Ms. Bell, a Career Services Professional at the University of Avoidant Arts & Invisible Sciences.

JORDAN: Hi, Ms. Bell. Thanks for meeting with me. I saw the flyers for the job fair. I assume they were printed by extroverts. Not sure it’s really…my scene.

MS. BELL: Glad you stopped in, Jordan. That’s a pretty common feeling. Can I ask what’s holding you back? Besides the crushing fear of making eye contact with a stranger?

Jordan chooses the seat farthest from the desk, like it might
be rigged to launch them into a surprise interview.

JORDAN: I don’t know. I’m not looking for a job right now, at least not a full-time one. And honestly, talking to employers makes me sweat in places I didn’t know had sweat glands.

MS. BELL: Totally understandable. But let me reframe it a little. The job fair isn’t just about landing a job on the spot. It’s about making connections, practicing professional conversations, and learning what employers are really looking for in your field.

JORDAN: So it’s more about networking?

MS. BELL: Exactly. Think of it as a low-pressure way to start building your career confidence. And you never know—some companies also offer internships, part-time work, or even future full-time roles that begin with an informal conversation.

JORDAN: Hmm…it still feels like walking into a room where everyone speaks fluent confidence and I forgot my translator. Like, what if I walk up to someone and freeze?

MS. BELL: That’s where preparation makes a difference. One thing I recommend: bring printed copies of your résumé. Not just to hand them out, but so you have a roadmap. If you can “speak your résumé”—meaning
talk through your experience and strengths like you’re having a natural conversation—it helps guide the discussion and reduce the nerves.

JORDAN: Speak my résumé? So you’re saying my résumé is like a script? Like…tell them about my part-time job and class projects? I can memorize it and deliver it like an awkward TED Talk?

MS. BELL: Exactly. Just without the headset mic or standing ovation. Practice a short intro: your major, what you’re interested in, and one or two things you’ve done that relate to your goals. For example, “Hi, I’m Jordan. I’m
a junior studying Communications. I recently led a campaign project in class that got great feedback, and I’m really interested in public relations or content creation.” Simple, clear, and opens the door.

JORDAN: Okay, I think I can do that. But what if I don’t know what to ask them?

MS. BELL: That’s a great question. Avoid yes-or-no questions like, “Are you hiring?” Instead, try things like: “What qualities do you look for in interns?” or “What types of entry-level roles do communications majors succeed in at your company?” Try asking, “What do successful interns have in common?” Not, “How soon can I work from home in pajamas?” Strategic questions show that you’ve thought about your career and help you gather information to make informed decisions later.

JORDAN: Makes sense. So it’s not just about impressing them—it’s also about learning from them?

MS. BELL: Exactly. And the more you engage, the more natural it will feel. Plus, employers notice students who come prepared with a résumé and a thoughtful question or two. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to show up ready to learn and grow.

JORDAN: Okay, you’ve convinced me. I’ll go— and I’ll bring my résumé. Maybe even practice a little before then.

MS. BELL: That’s the spirit! Stop by again before the fair. We’ll prep your materials and polish your intro until it sparkles like a LinkedIn connection request from someone you barely remember.

JORDAN: Deal. Thanks again, Ms. Bell.

MS. BELL: Anytime, Jordan. Let’s make it a great first step.

As Jordan leaves the room, he pulls out his phone and types: “how to fake confidence but like in a chill way.”