By: Shahad Abdulsahib; Contributor: Caitlyn Fastenau 

I had the privilege of attending the very first BioMed Fest in 2023, and since then, I’ve been actively involved in planning the 2024 and 2025 events to ensure the best possible experience for student engagement and success. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or returning for another year, here are my top five tips to better prepare you for an incredible and successful BioMed Career Fest 2025.

2024 BioMed Career Fest Organizers

TIP #1: Explore Career Tracks on the Whova App

This year, we added the amazing Whova app resource to help students explore career tracks and speakers before the event. To maximize your experience at BioMed Career Fest, navigate through the app and understand career tracks that interest you.

Whether you’re interested in biotech, pharma, consulting, medical affairs, or academia, my recommendation is to create a functional game plan to help prioritize sessions and networking.

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TIP #2: Update and Print Your Resume Based on Your Career Interests

Your resume should reflect the career path you want to pursue. I recommend having a printed copy ready and a digital version on hand—you never know when you’ll make a key connection! Some of my fellow students have recommended the app Blinq: to organize resumes and other materials.

If you’re considering industry, emphasize relevant technical skills, internships, and leadership roles. If you’re aiming for academia, highlight your publications, research projects, and conference presentations.

One amazing resource to help with this is the UT Health San Antonio GSBS Office Of Student Success, where you can access invaluable guidance in resume-building, career planning, and networking strategies. The office’s insights have helped me refine my professional presence, and I highly encourage students to seek out their expertise! If you are unable to work with the Office of Student Success, we recommend reaching out to the career office at your university for support.

TIP #3: Take Advantage of the Networking Hub and Update Your LinkedIn Profile

A new and improved feature for BioMed Fest 2025 is the Networking Simulation Hub where you can practice your networking skills with fellow students! Practice initiating conversation, introducing yourself, joining a group discussion, and more in this judgement-free environment. This space is designed to help attendees connect with professionals in a structured way. I recommend leaning into your polished LinkedIn profile to help “break the ice” for networking. One easy way is to look up speakers/attendees on LinkedIn to have an idea of their background to ask meaningful questions. The Networking Hub is a method to meet mentors, explore job opportunities, and practice networking in a low-pressure environment. Use this resource to your advantage! Don’t forget to use the LinkedIn QR code feature to easily share your profile to make connections.

✅ Ensure your LinkedIn profile updated
✅ Use a clear, concise headline that reflects your career goals
✅ Leverage the LinkedIn QR code feature for easy networking

Also, have you checked out the official social media toolkit? Let folks know you are planning to attend by posting to your social media sites! Don’t forget to tag us #BioMedcareerfest

TIP #4: Find a Networking Mentor or Bring a Friend for Support

Networking can be overwhelming, so bring a colleague or find a networking mentor. A mentor can be one of the experienced individuals helping organize the event to guide you through the day. Many industry professionals enjoy mentoring students and are open to sharing their experiences in career transitions, job searching, and professional development. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek advice—they’re here to help! P.S. check the guidebook to identify organizers!

2024 Elevator Pitch Competitors

TIP #5: Perfect Your Elevator Pitch & Compete for Prizes

If you’re looking to stand out, prepare a strong elevator pitch to use during your networking sessions and at the Elevator Pitch Competition.

The Elevator Pitch Competition is a short, 60-second introduction that clearly states 1) who you are, 2) what you do, and 3) what you’re looking for. There will be opportunities to receive feedback from professionals, and you might get a chance to compete for prizes for delivering a compelling pitch! Complete the Elevator Pitch Interest Form before the deadline on March 14th! 

Final Thoughts and Advice

My experiences at the Inaugural Biomed Fest in 2023 and now on the organizing committee for 2024 and 2025, I can confidently say this event is a game-changer for students.

It’s not just about attending sessions—it’s about building connections, growing professionally, and finding clarity in your career path. Use the 5 tips I recommended to make your BioMed Career Fest successful and stress-free. Networking and communicating your career interests is an evolving skill, utilize this event to practice or perfect your communication strategy!

I hope these tips help you make the most of your BioMed Fest experience— can’t wait to see you there!