You have made it through a phone screen, fORRum and an interview with an Orr Fellowship Board Member. It is now time for one of the biggest and most exciting events in Orr Fellowship’s recruitment process: Reception on the Circle! You are likely feeling a lot of different emotions: proud of yourself for making it to this stage in the process (which you should be!), excited to head to downtown Indianapolis for this prestigious event and, quite obviously, very nervous. All of these are perfectly normal, and I can guarantee that almost every current Fellow experienced a combination of all three. In order to ease some of your nerves, I have created a list of four tips to help you out at Reception on the Circle.
Utilize Orr Fellowship’s “Fellows” page to read about them on our website prior to the event.
One of the best things about Reception on the Circle is getting to network with all 130 Orr Fellows. It is the first time in Orr’s recruitment process where all candidates, Fellows, and Board Members are in the same place. As awesome as this opportunity is, it is also very overwhelming. One way to lessen the stress of this event is to familiarize yourself with the current Fellows. On Orr Fellowship’s website, there is a page dedicated to all of our current Fellows and alumni. On this page, you are able to filter Fellows by their major and graduation year. Fellows have also provided a brief bio in their profile, specifying what they do for work and what they do for fun.
Before Reception on the Circle last year, I reached out to several Fellows who shared my major, or whose work and/or hobbies interested me. This helped me navigate the event because I had already started conversations with a handful of Fellows. I felt more confident going into this event by having a better idea of what host companies Fellows were at and what they do at work and in their spare time.
Plan what to wear and what to bring with you.
The dress code for this event is business casual. The definition of business casual varies depending on who you ask, but a good rule of thumb is to treat is as business professional dress, but without the blazer. If you are still struggling, it is always safe to err on the side of dressing too formal rather than too casual, or “Dress for Success.”
In addition, you are not being interviewed at this event, so leave your resume and business cards at home.
Arrive early! If you are not familiar with the Indianapolis Public Library, be sure to leave yourself enough time to find the venue and locate the parking garage. In general, if you have any logistical questions before the event don’t hesitate to reach out to a Fellow. We are happy to help you out with any clarification you need!
Take advantage of the access to current Fellows, Board Members, and presenters at the event.
Still have questions about Orr Fellowship? I am sure you do! Reception on the Circle is a recruitment event tailored for candidates to ask questions. Fellows and Board Members are there to help you get to know Orr Fellowship, in addition to us getting to know you. Through conversations and a formal presentation, attending Reception on the Circle will help you to get a more clear idea of what Orr Fellowship is and all of the amazing opportunities that Orr has to offer. Don’t be afraid to ask any and all of your questions – that is what we are here for!
Relax, and enjoy your time at the Indianapolis Public Library.
Relax! Despite the craziness of Reception on the Circle, Fellows can all agree that overall it is a super fun event. Everyone will be in business casual attire and light refreshments will be served. A few nerves are normal, but don’t let them get the best of you. Make the most of the event by connecting with Fellows and Board Members, but be sure to have fun while doing that!
