�㽶�� hosts annual Career and Graduate School Fair

Event connects students with more than 30 employers and programs

�㽶�� recently hosted a Career and Graduate School Fair, a chance for current students to meet employers, learn about internships, and plan for their future.

“The purpose of this event is to connect students with employers for job and internship opportunities, as well as graduate school options,” said Kim Lane, associate dean for career and professional development. “It helps students learn about different industries, make direct contact with recruiters, and obtain career advice while improving their networking skills.”

The fair featured representatives from over 30 employers and graduate programs, offering a wide range of options for everyone. Also featured was a LinkedIn photo booth providing free headshots for those interested, sponsored by Enterprise Mobility.

According to Lane, several students were able to find professional attire for the event through Tartan Threads, the college’s free career closet run by the Career and Professional Development Office.

Among present representatives were several �㽶�� alumni, thrilled at the opportunity to give back to their alma mater and see some familiar faces. For many, the values ingrained in them during their time at �㽶�� were the driving force behind their desire to return and speak with current students.

“As a Blue Hose, knowing the values that �㽶�� has, and that we really care about ‘While We Live, We Serve,’ I know that �㽶�� students could excel greatly in this program,” said Rafael Guerra, ‘24, representing College of Charleston’s Master of Public Administration program. “I want to give back and ensure that students have the opportunities that I didn’t have when I was a student.”

Also present at the fair were representatives from the Atlanta Zacchaeus Fellows Program, a nine-month service-oriented leadership development program that walks alongside recent college graduates, offering community, career development opportunities, and access to a wide network of alumni.

“I think what makes it so special is that there’s something for everyone, which is really beautiful,” said Julia Ringley, ‘25, a current fellow of the Peachtree Presbyterian Church program.

For students, the fair was a chance to polish their interpersonal skills and practice networking, while also allowing them to make meaningful connections and explore their options, both as current students and post-graduation.

“I was hoping to get more well-connected with companies that I’m interested in, and potentially find a summer internship,” said sophomore Reagan Myers. “And I feel like the people I’ve talked to today have really encouraged me and shown me what all of my options are.”

According to Lane, approximately 80 students attended the fair. Of those students, a majority were juniors and seniors, but there were freshmen and sophomores present as well.

Lane’s hope for the future is that more students will recognize the value of career and graduate school fairs and utilize them to their fullest potential. Events like these are an incredible opportunity to discover interests, make connections with employers, and plan for the future.

“It can be kind of scary, but recruiters want to engage. They want to meet talent and explain how you can fit into their organization. If you don’t show up, they don’t know you, and you lose out,” said Lane. “Relationship building is an important way to differentiate yourself. If you could say, ‘Hey, I met you at the �㽶�� Fair,’ they’re going to remember you.”