From full-time positions to seasonal internship opportunities, Kent State University students and alumni explored their career options and networked with professionals to learn more about future possibilities.
Through the internship and job fair held Sept. 30 in the Kent Student Center, students seeking career and internship opportunities were able to build valuable connections, gaining clear benefits from attending.
“Coming to a career fair is great,” Justin Edwards, executive director of Career Exploration and Development, told Kent State Today. “It gives you a chance to know more about what is available to you down the road for internships and eventually for full-time jobs.”
Students agreed that this opportunity can be instrumental in getting their foot in the door for their respective fields.
Rory Vandenberg, a first-year early childhood education major, has already had success in attending these events. Vandenberg gave her resume to an employer and has a potential interview lined up with a company.
Stephanie Gilton, a senior visual communication design student, appreciates these events as she is seeking a spring internship.
“It is more helpful than LinkedIn and Handshake in my opinion,” Gilton said. “I prefer face-to-face.”
Recruiters also use these events for their benefit; many say they have connected with students at career events who have fulfilled positions in their company after setting up interviews.
Carla Nagle, recruiter generalist, and Joshuah Klepac, ’24, human resources specialist, attended the event on behalf of First Mutual Holding Company.
“We really want to share the opportunities that we have, especially because we are a smaller company,” Nagle said.
The employers in attendance had some career advice for all students.
Klepac, a 2024 graduate of the human resources management program, explained the importance of students getting face time with employers early on.
“They could recognize your name on a résumé or your face during an interview from a job fair,” Klepac said.
It is important to show up, but making a lasting impression is what matters most. You never know where an interaction can take you.
Tammy Turner, a regional recruiter from Davey Tree, shared the steps students can take to ensure they get the most out of career fairs.
“Take in as much as you can, learn about companies and don’t be afraid to ask questions,” Turner said.
Davey Tree has been successful in finding corporate-level interns from Kent State through past events.
“I think it’s important for students to explore other opportunities, not necessarily what they walked in for,” Jayde Veon, a regional recruiter from Davey Tree, said.
Coming to career fairs with an open mind and exploring every resource available is instrumental in gaining the best outcome.
“It’s always good to just put your name out there in general. Just get those resources if you can,” Jania Robinson, a senior physics major, said.
Visit Career Exploration and Development for additional career services and resources.