Frequently Asked Questions
About Employer Information Sessions

Q: What is an Employer Information Session?

A: An Employer Information Session is a one-hour presentation and reception sponsored by a company, usually held in the evening at Grainger Hall or the Fluno Center. Companies present information regarding their hiring process, their company benefits, and available positions. Usually there is a formal presentation, followed by a question and answer period. Many employers offer door prizes, refreshments, and product giveaways. Usually a few employer representatives attend, but recent UW-Madison alums may also be in attendance to offer their insight on working for the company.

Q: How can I find out more about an Information Session?

A: All Information Sessions sponsored by the BCC are listed in BuckyNet (the online software available to you when you register with the BCC). Information on dates, times, topics, and which majors and degrees the session is intended for is posted on BuckyNet. Check BuckyNet often as Information Sessions can be updated daily by employers.

Q: Who should attend Information Sessions?

A: Most of the Information Sessions are open to any UW-Madison student. Some employers do limit their sessions to certain degrees, majors, or only candidates who have signed up for interviews. Usually information sessions are directed at graduating seniors or juniors. However, sophomores and freshmen are welcome to attend certain Information Sessions to learn more about companies! It’s a great way to get a jump start on your job search, or to learn more about careers fields.

Q: Are Information Sessions mandatory?

A: While some employers will mandate that you attend their Information Session in order to interview with them, the BCC does not encourage employers to host mandatory Information Sessions due to evening classes, etc. However, if you are interviewing with a company, it is strongly recommended that you attend their information session as valuable information will be given out at Information Sessions that will help you with the actual interviews.

Q: Do I need to RSVP for Information Sessions?

A: Although it is not required, it is strongly encouraged that you RSVP through BuckyNet so that employers know how many materials, seating, and refreshments to provide. Under BuckyNet, click on “Events” and find the information session you are looking for. Click on the little RSVP box in the lower left-hand corner of the box to RSVP.

Q: Are refreshments served?

A: Yes, generally refreshments are served, so it is important to RSVP for an information session.

Q: What do I wear to an Information Session?

A: Most Employer Information Sessions are “business casual” but some may be professional dress. Check BuckyNet for more information. If the information session is a dinner rather than a reception, then professional dress is probably appropriate. If you have questions about a particular Information Session, ask a BCC advisor or staff member for advice.

Q: Can I attend an Information Session even if I do not have an interview scheduled with that employer?

A: For the most part you can attend an Information Session even if you are not on the company’s interview schedule. However, some employers will conduct a more formal Information Session for only the candidates on their interview schedules. Be sure to check BuckyNet to see the Information Session details for any that may be “Invite Only”.

Q: Do employers fill vacant interview time slots at Information Sessions?

A: Yes, some employers will fill any last minute cancellations with candidates that show interest at their Information Session. This is especially true if the Information Session is held the night before the on-campus interviews. You can ask an employer representative if you can interview with them the next day. Some employers will allow you to interview if you meet their criteria; some will not. It is completely up to the representative.

Q: The room number for the Information Session says “TIGH.” What is “TIGH”?

A: “TIGH” stands for “Today in Grainger Hall” which is the event listing in Grainger Hall posted by the elevators and various bulletin boards around Grainger Hall. Because the room number is subject to change, please check TIGH to see where the information session is located.