The Fresno State Career Center is hosting a series of workshops and internship fairs March 4-6, offering students a unique opportunity to connect with potential employers, build their interpersonal communication skills and potentially secure internships that could shape their future careers.
The Career Center hosts more than 100+ different organizations, all prepared to speak with students about internships, career opportunities after graduation and the skill sets they require for employment upon graduation. For many, these connections are an essential step in gaining the experience and connections needed to land internships and full-time positions.
The internship fairs will be held over three days, each dedicated to specific fields. March 5 will focus on sciences, technology, engineering, agriculture and manufacturing and March 6 will highlight business, media, creative arts, and health, human and public services.
The fairs are expected to draw recruiters from reputable, inclusive companies across the various sectors. A full list of employers attending each fair can be found on the Fresno State Career Center’s website, where students can also find additional details specific to each event.
All three workshops continue at the Resnick Student Union from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 5 and 6. Although each day is tailored to different industries, all events are open to all students and alumni, regardless of major.
For students who may feel hesitant about career fairs, the event offers a less intimidating way to connect with potential employers.
“This sounds like an event I would normally skip since I’m not a graduating senior and I’m not sure what I want to do yet, but a career fair sounds like a less scary way to meet someone who could be my boss compared to a normal interview,” said Aaron Ward, a business major.
By engaging with professionals in their field of study, students and alumni can gain valuable advice and discover new career paths.
“Career Fairs are the place to be if you are looking for opportunities so don’t be discouraged by the large number of employers and students that will be attending,” said Kao Sheng Thao, Career Coach. “Everyone is there for a reason. Keep in mind that employers are looking for candidates that fit their qualities and criteria, but so are you! The Career Center staff will be there to support our students and we are excited to see our students utilizing opportunities.”
Thao is one of several career coaches available to meet with students and to provide one-on-one career advising services. Career coaches are trained graduate students obtaining their degree in counseling.
For alumni like Hunter Gibson, the internship fair is an exciting opportunity she wishes she had taken advantage of.
“I didn’t attend a career fair while I was a student at Fresno State,” Gibson said. “I’m not sure if I ever heard when or where they were being held. But as a teacher, I would wholeheartedly encourage my students to go and explore. I’m back in school completing my Master’s in counseling, and an education career fair is something I would attend now, even if it was just to connect with my peers. I may take advantage and stop by.”
The Career Center encourages students attending to have multiple copies of a concise resume on hand. Your resume should reflect all relevant volunteer, internship or work experience and be tailored to your major and field of interest. Students are welcome to drop by the Career Center office on campus for a full resume review.
Since students will be interacting with employers and other organizations, business attire is recommended even if you are simply networking. Business attire includes dress shirts, slacks, dress shoes, blazers, etc.
If you are in need of professional clothing, the Professional Clothing Closet is often open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., free to students and located within the Career Center office.
Whether students are looking for their first internship or seeking advice on how to stand out in a crowded job market, these workshops and fairs have the potential to be a pivotal part of their professional growth. By utilizing these resources, students may find guidance and the connections necessary for a successful transition to post-graduation life.
For more information, students and alumni can contact the Career Development Center at careers@csufresno.edu.
