With a series of informative sessions and networking opportunities, Career Connections hosted its annual career fair last week.
Career week motivates students to build a successful career in a global world building leadership skills to acquire professionalism. The week featured many events focusing on dressing professionally, nailing job interviews, perfecting resumes and many other things.
“We really want students to learn the skills that are required in a professional world so that they become prepared to build a career after they graduate,” said the coordinator of career development, Anna Gasperecz.
Career week’s purpose is to increase confidence in students, helping them find employment by guiding them through resume writing and networking through many seminars.
Sessions like “Let Me Buy You Coffee” focused on how to improve your resume.
“I got an idea to write a proper resume that basically talks about my experiences that are required for jobs I am looking for,” junior psychology major Amanda Cook said.
The students got a chance to talk to the social media and networking assistant from Century Link, Kelsea McCrary. She focused on nonverbal communication and introductions. McCrary talked about how a proper handshake and an elevator speech can project a figure about oneself in front of an employer. She shared that knowing what you will talk about when meeting with a employer is important. Judgement is made on how you greet and meet new people. She also stressed that social media is a very important tool for employment.
She gave tips on how to make Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn appropriate and not too personal, so that employers can get a good idea of who you are.
Edward Jones’ financial advisor, Wynn Lawrence, taught students about the importance of saving for emergency situations.
He recommended establishing a 401k and attaining a benefits package from a company after retirement.
Pre-occupational therapy major Sarah Elizabeth said, “I really feel confident after attending the seminar now that I know how social media and budgeting can affect me. The seminar was worth going to, and it’s relevant to the students seeking a full-time career.”
Students also got the chance to listen to Dr. Emison who served in numerous senior executive roles for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and served in the U.S. Navy for 30 years. He spoke on how a career in non-profit and public service can be more than just a government job, by giving you recognition in society.
The Spring Career Fair was held on Thursday, Feb. 22 in the SUB ballrooms where 57 different employers interacted with students in one-on-one sessions.
Employers informed students of ways they can gain employment or seek internships with their companies. The fair left students feeling confident about their job search and post-graduation.
“I talked to companies like IBM and Century Link, and I believe I will get hired after I graduate. For now, I will be applying for internship there,” junior accounting major Mariana Tarver said.
Students like junior psychology major Luke Arsement felt there should be participation of “national, international and global recruiters and not just those looking to hire domestically.”
The students also had the opportunity of having their professional headshot taken free of charge by the university photographer during the fair.