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UNK turned into a hub of opportunity as it hosted its annual Career and Internship Fair. With over 140 employers in attendance, students and recent graduates gathered to explore a myriad of career prospects, make connections and embark on their professional journeys.

The Career and Internship Fair included a diverse lineup of companies. Representatives from fields such as healthcare, technology, finance and more were present, offering the eager attendees a wide array of opportunities.

For students like Abigail Heins, a junior majoring in business administration with an emphasis in marketing, the day marked a milestone in her academic journey. 

“I’ve come here today with the goal of expanding my professional network and, more importantly, to explore potential internship opportunities,” Heins said. “It’s exciting to have these opportunities right in front of me, and that’s my main motivation for being here.”

As students navigated the rows of booths and banners, they engaged with recruiters, asked questions and eagerly handed over their resumes. The fair provided a platform for students to not only secure job opportunities but also to make valuable connections and gain insights into their chosen industries.

The Career and Internship Fair was an opportunity for students at every stage of their academic journey to see what is out there. Whether a senior on the cusp of graduation, a student seeking an internship experience or even a freshman just beginning to explore the myriad of career paths available, this event had something to offer.

Employers were eager to meet potential candidates. Kaylea Kolbo, human resources manager for Younes Hospitality, talked about the event’s significance for their company. 

“We like to network with UNK students,” Kolbo said. “We’d like to have part-time students from UNK on our staff. Their flexibility with our schedule is something that kind of works hand in hand.”

Emily Beaman, assistant director of career development for the Academic Advising and Career Development Office, emphasized the professional development aspect of the fair.

“Career fairs help students prepare for life after college, which requires the ability to network, communicate effectively and put forward a positive first impression,” Beaman said. 

Beaman explained that attending a career fair could be overwhelming initially, but with practice, it can become easier. Interactions with employers are similar to mini interviews, a beneficial skill for students to develop and carry into their careers.

The Career and Internship Fair bridges the gap between academic aspirations and real-world opportunities, offering students a glimpse into their future careers.

Beaman highlighted the fair’s remarkable success rate. 

“It’s not only common for students to secure interview offers during the event, but some have even been fortunate enough to receive full-time job offers, both within and outside their field of study, solely based on conversations with employers,” Beaman said.

Employers are eager to talk with and potentially hire UNK students. 

“From the spring career and internship fair, we actually hired a student, and he’s still currently working with us right now,” Kolbo said. 

Don’t wait until the pressure is on in your senior year; start building those crucial connections today, ensuring a multitude of options when the time comes to embark on your post-graduation journey.