> TPE Virtual Placement is a dedicated recruiting and hiring event where Employers showcase their campus, job opportunities, and staff as well as interview and hire Candidates who are seeking employment in student affairs.

> Recruiting Fair: Thursday, February 12, 2026, from Noon - 5:00pm ET 

> Interview Week: February 23-28,  2026  from 8:00am - 6:00pm ET daily

> February 1 - Platform Opens: Candidates can browse job listings and submit applications. Employers review Candidates and connect messages, inviting them to visit virtual booths to learn more about opportunities on their campuses. Live and on-demand webinars will also be available for additional insight.

> Feb 12 - Recruiting Fair Day: The platform transitions into Candidate Screening mode. Employers invite candidates to screening conversations and engage with walk-up candidates via embedded chat and video chat. It’s an interactive day focused on recruiting, networking, and interview preparation.

> Feb 16-20 - Scheduling Week: Candidates continue to explore employer materials and apply to open positions. Employers review new applications and send formal interview invitations. Messaging, chatting, and networking continue throughout the week.

> Feb 23-27 - Interview Week: All interviews take place virtually on the platform. Employers are encouraged to complete first and second rounds of interviews during this time.

> Post-Interview Communication: Employers commit to notifying candidates by the end of Interview Week regarding next steps in the hiring process.

> TPE Careers is an evergreen, 24/7 resource for continuous job searching and career development, providing opportunities year-round. 

> In contrast, our Virtual Recruiting Fair and Placement event is a focused short-term experience where both Candidates and Employers are actively engaged in a concentrated week-long recruiting and interview process. Participants commit to this dedicated timeline to connect, interview, and fill vacancies as efficiently and effectively as possible.

> Graduate and Undergraduate Students: Seeking full-time, entry-level positions after graduation.

> Early Career Professionals: Looking for lateral moves or advancement into mid-level roles (1–5 years of professional experience).

> Mid-Level Professionals: Seeking lateral opportunities or growth into upper mid-level roles (6–10 years of experience).

> Senior-Level Professionals: Pursuing leadership roles at the Director level or unit leadership positions (11+ years of professional experience).

> Practitioners in other fields of employment with strong transferable skills who are seeking to make student affairs home for the next phase of your career journey.

> Recruiters and hiring employers will be live on February 12, 2026 from Noon - 5:00pm ET. To make the most of this opportunity and speak directly with them, you should try to log on for as much of the live event as possible. 

> The platform will remain open the following week, in order for you to brown job posting and apply for positions. 

> Interview Week is designed to allow job seekers and employers to have a more streamlined and efficient interview process (timeline). While we are virtual, you should hold significant flexible time on your calendar to be away from class and/or work responsibilities between 8:00am and 6:00pm ET in order to accept interview invitations.

> No. You only need internet access.

> Update Your Resume and Cover Letter: Ensure your application materials are clear, well-organized, and tailored to the specific roles you’re interested in. Ask a trusted mentor or career advisor to review them for feedback.

> Refresh Your Online Presence: Update your LinkedIn profile and any other professional sites or portfolios that showcase your skills and experiences.

> Reflect and Plan: Focus your job search on roles and organizations that align with your personal values and career goals. A values-based search helps you find fulfilling opportunities that match both your skills and your principles.

> Research Employers: Learn about the Campuses attending the event and the positions they’re hiring for. Create a prioritized list of top employers that fit your interests and aspirations.

> Craft Your Story: Prepare a concise “elevator pitch” that highlights your strengths, experiences, and what makes you a strong candidate. Practice answering common questions that employer representatives might ask.

> We will hold an Orientation on Tuesday, January 20th at 3pm EDT. We will guide you through navigating the platform and participating in the full schedule of events. You can register for that webinar here.

> First, attend the Welcome session. We’ll walk you through how to navigate the platform for the day. 

> Visit Employers in their booths and review their campus & department information, meet with their representatives, and ask questions. 

> Search the job board and make note of positions of interest. 

> Attend the Discussions and Webinar sessions.

> AFTER the Recruiting Fair, send follow up messages to hiring managers reiterating your interest, apply for positions that interest you, and prepare for interviews!

> Can you tell me more about the team and campus culture and what it's like to work here?

> What are the main responsibilities and expectations for the [specific job position] within your organization?

> Can you share more about the type of projects or initiatives that employees in this role typically work on?

> What is the typical career path for someone in this role within your organization?

> What opportunities are there for advancement on your campus?

> How does your organization support professional development and growth for employees?

> How does your organization promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace?

> How does your organization support work-life balance for employees?

> What sets your organization apart from competitors in our field?

> What does the hiring process look like for this role?