Nearly 1,300 students attended the annual Spring Internship, Co-op and Career Fair at Kent State University’s Student Recreation and Wellness Center on Feb. 22.

Well over 146 business recruiters from Northeast Ohio and the surrounding areas also attended the fair to talk with students about possible career opportunities. 

“You can practice your elevator pitch and ask questions minutes before going on the career floors,” said Kristen Washington, the recruiting coordinator of Career Exploration and Development.

LaunchNET, LinkedIn photo stations, career advisors and the Career Closet were located at the fair in the racquetball resource rooms for students to use at no cost. 

LaunchNET is a service provided to students to guide aspiring entrepreneurs with mentors and resources to implement their ideas.

At the fair, you could use LaunchNET’s services to practice your elevator pitch.

The Career Closet pop-up shop was at the fair providing donated items for students who need a professional business outfit before attending.

“We advise you to dress based on your industry so the Career Closet is a great resource,” said Washington. “You may have this really great outfit, but need a tie or a blazer, you are able to get that at the fair.” 

For easy navigation, The Fairs App accessed through the Apple Store, Google Play, and the Career Services website allowed students to see a map of businesses located on the basketball courts.

The app also allows you to create a folder of your favorite businesses to visit to prepare before arriving at the fair.

“It allows you to have a game plan and be prepared walking in the door,” said Washington.

Fox 8, American Eagle, Enterprise, and Progressive were some of the businesses attending.

“We look for students that know about our company and are prepared,” said Roni Kimberland, the manager of human resources at Kenan Advantage Group, “This is our third year here and were always looking to employ local talent.”

For students considering attending a career fair, Washington stressed that confidence is key.

“To prepare for the fairs students should be conversational and as natural as possible, you want to be engaging,” Washington said. 

Washington said most students do not know how many options there are at career fairs until they attend. 

Other businesses like The Centers For Families And Children were in its inagural year at the fair. 

“Don’t limit yourself,” said Rachel Lockney, the enrollment specialists at The Centers For Families And Children. “I graduated from Kent State and started an internship here and now I am working for the company.”

Washington said it is important to show the qualities needed for the job. 

“No one knows yourself as well as you do so it’s important to know you are a quality candidate, sharing the traits that make you most special is going to be what’s important,” Washington said.

Students can access Flash at Work if they were unable to attend the fair for internship and job opportunities.

Imani Fields is the jobs reporter. Contact her at [email protected].