CLASS Career Fair to Connect Students with Top Houston Employers

Approximately 100 companies, government agencies and nonprofits will be on campus September 19 to meet with undergraduate and graduate students


The UH College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS) believes students should not have to choose between pursing a rigorous education in the classroom and gaining hands-on career experience. As CLASS students become leaders in their fields and communities, they attract attention from employers throughout the Houston metropolitan area. On Wednesday, September 19 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., the annual CLASS Career Fair will allow CLASS students to connect with companies and organizations that are impacting the global economy in Houston and beyond. Held on the second floor of UH Student Center, the CLASS Career Fair will bring together approximately 100 companies, government agencies and nonprofits in search of the skills, talents and perspectives our students offer. University Career Services has also partnered with the Student Government Association to host a simultaneous CLASS Graduate Career Fair for graduate students.'

“Many members of the CLASS community are in the process of figuring out their professional callings, or pursuing jobs for the first time,” said Dr. Antonio D. Tillis, dean of CLASS. “We strive to provide students with ample resources to forge successful career paths that align with their abilities and passions. The CLASS Career Fair gives students direct access to key hiring managers in the Houston area.”

At the fair, students can expect to engage in conversations with employers and CLASS graduate programs, learning more about specific jobs, internships and academic opportunities. Organizations may request interviews after the fair or follow up with more information about current and future openings. Whether students are exploring career options or searching for full-time positions, the CLASS Career Fair is an invaluable resource for establishing employment contacts, discovering new and exciting career fields, and practicing communication skills. 

Past attendees of the CLASS Career Fair attest that it is a springboard for professional and personal success.

"I had many positive interactions with multiple companies at career fairs hosted by University Career Services,” said Michael Holland ‘18, a graduate of the Department of Economics. “The first UCS Career Fair I attended led to my very first internship, with PLS Logistics Services. I attended another fair in the fall of 2017, and although I was already employed, I developed some relationships that led to my current position at Argus Media as a business journalism intern. The CLASS Career Fair deserves 100 percent credit for getting me out of bartending and construction work and into the professional world.”

“Spring 2017 was around the corner, and it hit me that in one year I would be walking across the stage to receive my degree,” said Christina Graham ’18, a graduate of the Jack. J. Valenti School of Communication. “I found an internship with the National Diversity Council and thought I would try it out. After my three-month internship was over, I was asked to become an intern in event coordinating, which lasted around nine months. When I walked across the stage in May, I not only had a degree under my belt, but I had a full-time offer as well. Career Services and CLASS are family to the CLASS majors, and one thing about the CLASS family is that we take care of each other. Anyone who is thinking about attending the career fair should absolutely go. Opportunities are right on the other side — all you have to do is open the door!” 

Students are encouraged to browse the list of organizations attending the fair. Students should also research these organizations by visiting their websites and social media platforms, understanding their mission statements, and reviewing their current job openings. Students are advised to create a list of five to ten organizations that they are interested in connecting with at the career fair.

Students attending the CLASS Career Fair should bring 10-15 copies of their updated resume, pens or pencils for notetaking, business cards, and mints (no gum). If possible, students are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of the career fair. 

Professional dress is strictly enforced. Students should view the dress code policy before attending. If students do not own business-professional attire, they are encouraged to schedule a "Career Closet" appointment in Cougar Pathway. The Career Closet has a variety of professional clothing options available for rent at a rate of $10 per three business days.

What: CLASS Career Fair and CLASS Graduate Career Fair
When: Wednesday, September 19 | 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
WhereUH Student Center, Houston Room and Ballroom
Who: Open to CLASS undergraduates and graduate students