The Career Development Office hosts the Career and Internship Fair every fall semester. This semester, a significant presence of K-12 education, local, state and federal government entities, along with various non-profit organizations, tabled at the fair. These industries have a crucial role in supporting the NEIU community and driving positive change.
NEIU students and alumni had a chance to network with various industry professionals ranging from healthcare to accounting. The Career Development Office provided a packet of job and internship opportunities offered at each company.
Dr. Katy McGuinnis, Director of Career Development at NEIU, discussed the importance of helping students develop job-search skills and the role of career fairs in providing practical experience.
“It’s not something that comes naturally to a whole lot of people. It causes a lot of anxiety. And our job is to give students a lot of experience doing it. So when it comes time for that, you know, this is a job [student’s] really, really, really want. They’ll have some experience. They’ll feel a little bit calmer, and have more opportunit[ies] to be successful,” Dr. McGuinnis said.
Throughout the semester, the Career Development Office offers resources for NEIU students and alumni, including assistance with “resume and cover letter writing” and “mock interviews, career search strategies and networking [opportunities].” This semester the office is offering LGBTQ career resources driven by Career Development Office intern Jared Scoville. These resources are available through an in-person meeting with a Career Development staff member in Room B 119 or a virtual appointment on Handshake.
Ryland Roberts, the Student Media Board’s Production Manager, is an example of a NEIU student who attended the career fair and applied for a job at a nonprofit organization. Roberts now works with Chicago HOPES for Kids, one of the nonprofit organizations that table at the career fair as an AmeriCorps Member. As a student majoring in special education, Roberts now teaches students experiencing homelessness before they even start their clinicals.
“This is something I want to continue to do after I graduate,” Roberts stated.
During the interview, Dr. McGinnis shared stories of students finding internships and jobs through career fairs, including an organization that opened three additional internship spots after meeting NEIU students.
“People love NEIU students. They love coming here. They love meeting [the] love the grit and determination that our students have,” Dr. McGinnis said.
The Career Development Office can help students build strong resumes and improve their work etiquette. In addition, via a Handshake appointment, the office has a free closet known as the Power Closet, which provides professional attire, located in LWH E-036.
