Washington State University will host its annual spring semester Career Expo next week in Beasley Coliseum. On Tuesday, Feb. 10, more than 120 employers from a variety of industries will set up shop in the coliseum, looking to find their next Coug hire.
From 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., students searching for internships, post-graduation jobs and networking opportunities will have the chance to meet with industry leaders, learn about their companies and possibly interview for a position. The event, hosted by the WSU Academic Success and Career Center, aims to connect students with potential employers and help them build a network that can lead to career success.
Employers will speak with students, learn about their backgrounds, review resumes and may offer interviews for summer or post-graduation positions.
Some employers expected to attend include Fisher Investments, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, multiple county sheriff’s departments and big-name construction firms.
Carson College career adviser Daniel Kennedy encourages students to use campus resources in preparation for the expo.
“The best way to prepare for Career Networking Night or the Career Expo is to stop by the Carson Center or the Academic Success and Career Center and ask to meet with a career consultant,” Kennedy said. “We can help you feel confident and prepared going into the event.”
Carson College advisers can assist students with resume and cover letter reviews, job search strategies, interview techniques and networking preparation.
Kennedy also said appearance and presentation can be as important as qualifications during face-to-face recruitment interactions.
“Do your best to dress to impress, bring a polished resume and spend some time researching the companies you’re interested in beforehand,” Kennedy said.
A Washington-based aerospace company that attends the career expo each semester provided The Evergreen with insight into its ideal student hire.
“When recruiting interns and recent graduates at WSU, we look for candidates who embody key qualities that signal their potential for success. Strong communication skills are essential, as they enable candidates to collaborate effectively and convey ideas clearly. Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities are also crucial, allowing candidates to tackle challenges with creativity and insight,” the company said.
The company stressed that professionalism and adaptability help candidates stand out above the crowd.
“Candidates who understand business etiquette demonstrate professionalism and maturity, making them more likely to thrive in a corporate setting. By focusing on these qualities, we find candidates who are not only academically qualified but also ready to make a positive impact in the workplace,” the company said.
More information and a list of attending employers can be found online on the event’s WSU Handshake.com post.
