April 16, 2025
The University of Pittsburgh hosted more than 150 companies over the span of three days at its annual Spring Career and Internship Fair in February.
The fair, which took place Feb. 18-20, provided students direct access to company representatives – often Pitt alums or Pittsburgh locals – allowing them to expand their professional network, seek career guidance, and build personal connections with potential employers.
“I always leave the career fair feeling accomplished, like I’ve taken a step in the right direction toward my post-grad goals,” said Scott Schwartz, a School of Computing and Information (SCI) senior.
Some of the companies at the event included Pitt’s corporate partners, such as PNC, Deloitte, and Aldi. There were also booths for nonprofit organizations and government agencies, so each student was given the opportunity to follow their own unique path and interests.
Each year, the event allows students to get to know the people, culture, and technical aspects of each organization to determine if the company would be a good fit. Furthermore, having a familiar face within the company provides a valuable connection when applying for jobs. Company representatives can offer guidance, answer questions, or even put in a good word to the hiring manager.
The computing-focused day on Feb. 19 highlighted roles in cybersecurity, data analytics, and software engineering, as well as interdisciplinary opportunities such as tech communications and sales.
During the fair, peer advisors from SCI were situated at the center of the ballroom at tables with snacks, beverages, and useful information about the event.
Johanna Luke, a SCI senior and peer advisor, said, “As a freshman, I received a lot of guidance about majors and potential career paths that helped me feel more confident in what I wanted to do here at Pitt. I became a peer advisor because I wanted to be that help for other students.”
The students at the peer advising tables helped to create a welcoming environment where people could take a break from networking, recharge, or ask for advice.
“This was my first career fair. Having a group of students there to help and answer questions made the whole event a lot less intimidating,” said Allyson Morgan, a first-year SCI student.
With each connection made, the Career and Internship Fair empowers students to take the next step toward their professional futures. It is a chance to get your foot in the door of the corporate world postgrad, while also giving valuable practice in networking and self-confidence. Through events like this one, Pitt gives students the opportunity to transform themselves from a student to a professional.
Thank you to Pitt’s Division of Student Affairs for organizing this event, and to all the participating companies for offering opportunities to students!
Read more about Pitt’s professional development resources.