Students of all majors and standings crowded the Student Center ballroom in hopes of impressing future employers during the Fall Career and Exploration Fair Thursday. 

The fair was organized by the Career Exploration and Development Center, and it featured over 70 employers from a variety of industries and sectors. A range of job opportunities were offered, such as full-time and part-time work, internships, co-ops and volunteer experience. 

Keturah Kneuss, assistant director of the center and event organizer, called the fair a “massive success.” 

“We’ve had great traffic so far,” Kneuss said. “And just the excitement, people are walking in with nervous energy and leave smiling. We take that as a win.” 

According to Kneuss, nearly 600 students and alumni pre-registered to attend the event, with walk-ins available as well. One of those students was Mary Kittelberger, a junior biology major, who networked with Davey Tree and the Cleveland Sewer District among other employers.  

“Next year, I graduate in August, so I’m looking for the next future step,” Kittelberger said. “It’s nice to see so many opportunities available.” 

The fair also included stations where attendees could prepare, organize and maximize their networking opportunities. Some examples include a career closet offering free professional clothing, free headshots and tables providing advice for conversations with employers. 

“Our number one goal is student education, so what we aim to do is help students [and alumni] prepare for whatever that next step is for them,” Kneuss said. “These events help give students a chance to be exposed to what opportunities are out there, and also to help them practice networking and telling their story and career journey.” 

One of the employment opportunities at the fair was City Year, a non-profit AmeriCorps program that specializes in short-term employment for those interested in working at a school or education-based setting. 

Todd Marsh, an AmeriCorps recruiter, encouraged this work for those undecided on a particular career in education. 

“This short-term experience gives young adults an opportunity where they can test those ideas and interests they have for themselves,” Marsh said. “It can help solidify the direction they may want to take their career.” 

Several employers sponsored the fair, such as Certus Healthcare, City Year, Davey Tree, Progressive Insurance, Walden and Wraparound Experts. Davey Tree was the Golden Sponsor of the event, and the company cited its Kent headquarters location as a reason to come out and strengthen community ties.

Another Career and Exploration Fair will be held next semester Feb. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Justin Edwards, executive director of the Career Exploration and Development Center, encourages all to take advantage of these networking opportunities. 

“We really believe in helping to democratize access to employers and opportunity, and that’s a big part of what this fair is here to do,” Edwards said. “People deserve to wake up and be excited about the work they do, and we’re trying to make sure folks know about all of those different pathways.” 

John Engoglia is a beat reporter. Contact him at [email protected].