On September 17, 239 students and 23 partners attended the career fair, held at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus. The even kicked off with a skill building session including a keynote speech by Emily Owens, Director of College/Career Counseling and Alumni Support at Venture Academy. Emily presented students with resources for and information on career fair best practices as well as tips for crafting individual elevator pitches. Following the presentation, students were given time to connect with attending partners before the fair and practice their elevator pitch and skills learned from the session with Emily before moving into the exhibit hall. Students were encouraged to connect with partners to learn about the company and what roles were open. “I love how passionate and dedicated the recruiters were about their job,” said one student. “I appreciated that they were interested to help you understand and get to know their company.”
Why is it important?
The process of networking, applying and interviewing for jobs can be a daunting task. The fair is about gaining new skills, empowering students, and creating a space where students can connect with partners. Learning sessions create a space for practice and then the application of these skills with relevant employers that cater to student’s majors. “I liked the connection and networking that I formed when I talked with the recruiters,” stated a student in attendance. “Knowing more about the companies helped me decide which company is more suited to my major.”
If you would like your organization to be involved in future career fairs, please contact Megan Mattson, director of institutional engagement, at MMattson@CollegePossible.org.
