Students suited up in their best business attire for UNK’s annual fall Career and Internship Fair on Oct. 17. Over 130 employers from across the state gathered in the Health and Sports Center to network with students.
Amongst them was Karen Rojas, a human resources generalist at Lexington Regional Health Center and UNK alumna, whose career was kickstarted at a similar event.
“I was employed thanks to these career fairs,” Rojas said. “I started as an intern and it was the career fair where I met Mandy Sand, who I stayed in touch with and ultimately offered me an internship opportunity.”
Rojas has swapped places and is now one of the employers behind the booth, helping students learn about opportunities in their field.
As a regular attender of UNK’s career fair, Mandy Sand, director of talent and workforce engagement at Lexington Regional Health Center and UNK alumna, has noticed a consistent quality among students.
“What I have learned throughout the years is that a lot of students from UNK are more likely to stay local, and so we want people who are invested in the area and want to stay,” Sand said.
Students from diverse academic backgrounds found employers that matched their career interests. These interactions allowed students to learn more about companies, understand the qualifications employers were seeking and receive advice on touching up their resumes.
Josue Lucas, a sophomore elementary education major, attended the fair to connect with employers and explore potential career paths.
“I am hoping to get something out of this career fair, whether that be an internship or connecting with someone outside of my major like someone that has their own business,” Lucas said.
Attendees were also taught how to prepare for interviews and research companies. Apart from taking away a potential job offer, students were able to practice their networking skills and receive guidance on how to reach their professional goals.
Students can visit the Academic Advising and Career Development office on the second floor of the Calvin T. Ryan Library.
