THE FALL CAREER EXPO – SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

I recently had the opportunity to chat with Eileen Wisnewski, executive director of the Chirico Career Center, about the upcoming Fall Career EXPO. This event will take place in the Peterson Recreation Center on Wednesday, September 23 from 2:30 pm-5:00 pm. According to Eileen, “All students can benefit from the Fall Career EXPO. Whether they are exploring majors, seeking internships, considering graduate school, or preparing for full-time employment, there is truly something for everyone.”

 I think you will agree that there is lots of good information here for you to share with your students.

Jackie

What is important to know about the Fall Career EXPO?

This is our biggest event of the year, and we will take over the Peterson Recreation Center to provide an energized and informative afternoon for every student regardless of class year, major, or career interest.

Employers: We will have representatives coming who want to talk with students about jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities. Students can see the registered organizations in their FriarHub account.

Graduate Schools: For students interested in advancing their education after Providence College, representatives will be here to discuss their programs and admission process.

Professional Headshot Photos: We will have a Popcam headshots system available for students to get a professional headshot taken during the event.

What to Wear: Students planning to meet with employers, graduate schools, or have professional headshots taken are encouraged to wear business casual or professional attire. There are no dress recommendations for students who just plan to attend the Major/Minor Fair.

Please share information about the Major/Minor Fair component of this event.

Faculty and students from all majors and minors will be attending the Major/Minor Fair portion of the EXPO (2:30 pm-4:30 pm.) This collaborative event, involving the career center, academic advising, faculty, and students, is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about the whole range of academic offerings at PC, while also making important campus connections.

According to Peter Paulumbo, assistant dean, and director of academic advising, “While the Major/Minor Fair is excellent for first- and second-year students who are early in their academic journey, all students can benefit from attending. It is a great opportunity to engage different departments and faculty and find ways to create an individualized academic experience with courses and academic options that enrich a student’s PC education. I have had many students become excited about potential double majors, minors, core requirement options, and free electives after conversations with people in areas that were not previously on their radar. “

 What are some ways students can prepare for the EXPO?

  • Daily drop-in office hours or scheduled appointment: We have drop-in office hours in Slavin 108 from 1:00 pm-4:00 pm. Students can have conversations about choosing a major and/or navigating the EXPO.  Students can also schedule an appointment with a Career Coach in their FriarHub account.
  • Employer Panel (September 21 at 4:00 pm):Join us for our Employer Panel where recruiters share what really matters when you meet them. Learn the do’s and don’ts straight from the professionals who review resumes, conduct interviews, and make hiring decisions every day. Students can register through their FriarHub account.
  • Resume Review Day (September 22 from 11:00 am-4:00 pm): Whether your resume is already giving five-star vibes or you’re just getting started, this event is for you. Career coaches and employers will be on hand to chat about your career ideas, help you decide which employers or grad schools to visit, suggest questions to ask at the EXPO, and support you with anything else you need to feel confident and prepared for the big day!

What suggestions do you have for parents to pass on to their students about how they can make the most of the EXPO?

  1. Encourage your student to attend, regardless of class year, career interests, or future career plans.
  2. Encourage your student to review participating organizations in FriarHub and create a plan before attending.
  3. Encourage your student to attend office hours, meet with a Career Coach, and participate in the EXPO preparation events.
  4. Remind your student that Career Center staff and student volunteers will be available throughout the event to answer questions and offer guidance.
  5. Encourage your student to follow up with employers, graduate schools, or other representatives they meet during the event.