There’s a solution at hand if you’re about to hit the job market – N.C. Central University’s 2008 Spring Career Fair. The fair, sponsored by the Office of Career Services, will be held Thursday, March 27 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Leroy T. Walker Complex. The fair, now in its 15th year, is open to all majors. Students do not have to register for the fair. More than 80 businesses will be searching for employees. Students can meet with company and government representatives, gather information, and, perhaps most importantly, make a first impression that lands them that dream job. “I’ve been going to the Career Fair since my sophomore year and have found it to very beneficial,” said psychology senior Lakeshia Banks. “I will be going this year as well.” BankS described the fair as a great opportunity for students “to get a foot in the door” and as a way for them to understand what’s out there in “the real world.” “It’s high exposure in a short period of time,” said Courtney Forte Alston, student services coordinator with the Office of Career Services, “where students can explore different industries … and narrow their career search.” Alston said students should ask recruiters for advice about entry-level positions, about getting formal interviews and about the type of employee the company is seeking. Career Services offers these additional tips: — Have copies of your resume ready. Students can get help developing their resume at nccu.optimalresume.com or by meeting with someone at career services. Both services are free. — Some companies don’t accept resumes, so have business cards ready. Inexpensive cards can be made at NCCU’s copy center. The card should include: major, GPA, year of graduation, and all contacinformation. — Print a copy of your transcript from Banner and have it handy. — Have a “script” ready to introduce yourself and your interests to the representative. — Be prepared to discuss your interests, goals, skills and GPA. The dress code specifies professional-looking business suits. Men must wear ties. No jeans, khakis, sandals, sneakers or hats will be permitted. And, for goodness sake, cover that tattoo and don’t shake hands like a wet noodle!