Direct applications vs. University Careers Fair

So I check my old university careers fair, because a (prop firm) company I was looking for is pitching a stand there.

Price to get in, £400. And there's only one relevant company there for me.

Does that kind of introduction make such a huge difference? Am I likely to get autodinged if I just apply directly?

All tickets are gone for the fair, sadly, but it seems a crazy investment, but if it makes a huge difference, it might be worth it.

Anyone experienced either side of the coin?

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I was pitching a stand myself, until I read the £400 part.

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