What is the impact of graduate fairs in Scotland on its target audience? Critical study exploring the purpose of graduate fairs and their contribution towards employability with a case study of Queen Margaret University

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the impacts graduate fairs have on their target audience in relation to motivations and employability. Students' perceptions about these events are generally under-researched; therefore, findings coming from this study enhance the understanding of the graduate fairs impacts. Design/Methodology The researcher used mixed-approached methods in order to survey 73 students through online surveys. The population was majorly from QMU; however, some respondents were from other universities in Edinburgh. In order to balance the quantitative part of the research, qualitative semi-structure interview was conducted with a career officer from QMU. Findings The researcher found out that organisers and the target audience generally share the same expectations but the service satisfaction is considered as unsatisfactory. On the other hand, students believe that these events are useful and have positive impact on their employability. The issues that were identified as unsatisfactory were related to the number and variety of employers. Lastly, the QMU case study showed that students prefer to be involved in the organisation of these events. Limitations The main limitation of this study was identified to be the possible generalisability of the findings. As the study was conducted mainly with QMU population, the possible implication of the findings to other universities in Edinburgh and in Scotland is limited.