There is never a time too soon to begin preparing for post-graduation plans and arrangements. West Chester University knows that, and offers a huge amount of opportunities for students to meet with professionals in just about all areas of study. From career fairs and professional setting “mocktails” to corporate company ambassadors swinging by our student union on a weekly basis, the chances given to network and collaborate with future peers and employers are endless. The 2015 fall semester is no exception, so I have compiled a list of some events that have passed by, and some that are approaching in the coming weeks.
Every year, the Twardowski Career Center puts events together in hopes of bringing career opportunities literally to the doorsteps of West Chester University undergraduate and graduate studies students. On Oct. 14 they had another event just like this one, but catered to students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineer and Mathematics) fields. All students, however, are encouraged to attend these events with an open mind and tailored resume, despite major or graduating year.
Aside from the two huge annual career fairs, the Twardowski Career Development Center is always working to ensure students make a powerful transition from student to post-graduation life. For those that may not know, their office is located on the second floor of Lawrence.
Students are encouraged to make appointments and speak with career specialists to review an array of aspects and concerns, such as resume revising and practicing interview etiquette. There are also times when employers from companies and firms will come to campus looking for candidates, and the TCDC is where they conduct interviews. On Oct. 13, Maxix HealthCare and SEI conducted on-campus interviews.
On Oct. 19, Capital One will be here doing the same. On their website is a schedule of upcoming interview dates, workshops and events in general, but students can make personal appointments five days a week.
Student organizations can also be a resource here on campus for post-graduation exposure and opportunities. NABA (National Association of Black Accountants) hosted JP Morgan in the Office of Multicultural Affairs just a few days ago. They will also have representatives from Rainer & Co., one of the leading regional CPA firms, come to Sykes 254 on November 5th at 6 p.m. Vanguard has accepted two invitations to come and join West Chester student ran organizations this fall.
Their first visit will be in Sykes Student Union room 254 on Oct. 22, hosted by NABA, and on Nov. 16 in Sykes meeting room 10A with LASO (Latino American Student Organization). Wednesday Oct. 14, the West Chester Chapter of PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America) will be hosting the Speed Networking Event in the Sykes Ballroom. Companies you can expect to attend include Garden Media Group, Piqued Public Relations, and Comcast among others.
This fall is packed with events to attend that may lead to the career you’ve been aspiring to begin. For others, attendance at one of these events may introduce a career path that they may have never imagined for themselves. The abundance of resources here on campus are available to make the transition into the job force easier and the options plentiful. Don’t miss out on the opportunity.
Shawn Trawick is a fourth-year student majoring in communications and political science. He can be reached at ST819517@wcupa.edu.