With the EXCELLENCE careers fair, the University of Graz organises the annual highlight of its year-round careers advice service for students and graduates, as well as providing a platform for professional networking right on campus. Psychology graduate Michael Hemmelmayr was one of those who made use of this regular service around two years ago: “Not only did I gain relevant and up-to-date knowledge to help me get started in my career, but I also felt extremely well supported.” Today, he works at Oberbank AG in Linz and is also self-employed.
CV significantly improved
Luzia Amon, a graduate of the “Global Studies” programme and currently employed at the Federal Ministry of Labour, attended the EXCELLENCE job fair last year: “I had my official application photo taken there, which was very straightforward and simple, and significantly improved my CV. What’s more, a short while later I was able to book a face-to-face counselling session at very short notice to prepare for a job interview.”
Don’t let yourself get discouraged
Lisa Korntheuer also made use of the services offered by the Career Centre. “It was particularly helpful to go through my CV and application documents together, followed by feedback, as well as preparing for potential questions in job interviews,” sums up the psychology graduate, who is currently training to become a clinical psychologist at a rehabilitation clinic. “Even more valuable and reassuring was the advice not to give up and to remain patient, as a job search lasting several months after graduation can be perfectly normal. It’s important not to put pressure on yourself and not to let rejections discourage you.”
55 exhibitors
Visitors to the fair can expect a total of 55 exhibitors from a wide range of sectors – from Andritz AG and the European Union Space Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) to Volkshilfe Steiermark. Students will have the opportunity to speak directly with recruiters and find out first-hand what matters when starting out in their careers.
In addition, through hourly presentations and HR talks, participants will gain specific insights into the fields of activity of the companies and organisations. The Career Centre provides personalised support with on-site CV checks. A suitable application photo will be taken on the spot. Visitors can also look forward to free snacks in the exhibition café, a goodie bag and a prize draw: prizes include a bicycle in the University of Graz design and shopping vouchers.
Vice-Chancellor Peter Riedler emphasises the great importance of a university degree for the labour market: “With their knowledge, our graduates actively help shape a sustainable future and contribute the latest insights to society.”
Admission is free. Registration is required for certain programme items.
