Spring 2020 was a pivotal time for everyone on campus as everyone scrambled around to adjust to our new normal. Throughout it all, at least one constant remained: The University Career Development Center being a steadfast resource for students preparing for jobs and graduate programs.
Lexi Goodwin, a senior studying communication sciences and disorders, is a Career Ambassador at the Career Development Center (CDC). Career Ambassadors make career-related presentations to classes, RSOs and departments. They also serve as representatives of the CDC at university programs and functions across campus.
“The spring was an adjustment for everyone, but we were still able to offer great virtual career services,” Goodwin said. “This year, we have been offering virtual career presentations and professional development through Zoom as well as continuing our career fairs and events virtually.”
In mid-September the CDC hosted the All Careers Fair, and saw a record number of employers register for the fair because it was completely virtual. While companies can attend virtual career fairs without traveling, students receive the same benefit as if it were in person. About the same number of students attended the All Careers Fair compared to last year.
“The virtual platform does have some silver linings,” said Carolyn Chitwood, director of career education. “It has helped us to see that there are other possibilities.”
The feedback for the virtual career fair was very positive. Companies set up a virtual “booth” where students could chat with representatives. While the majority were just over chat, some had video options as well.
“Those who seemed to get the most out of the fair were those who researched graduate schools and employers beforehand,” said Erica Estes, director of employer relations for Fulbright College.
The CDC has lots of tutorials on how to get the most out of a digital career fair, including how the chat feature works and even how to navigate employers. The tutorials and webinars found at career.uark.edu can help students who may or may not have been to a career fair before.
The Business Career Fair and the STEM Career Fair, both held in late September allowed students the opportunity to make personal connections with local and national employers, exploring internships and full-time employment options.
Chitwood recommends creating a profile ahead of time on uark.easyvirtualfair.com. Starting a career fair off by speaking with an employer you aren’t as interested in can help build confidence as you learn to navigate the platform. She also suggests being proactive in your search.
“Don’t be afraid to have a conversation,” Chitwood said. “Employers are there to answer questions and provide information.”
Students can utilize all career counseling and Career Studio services to prepare for these upcoming job fairs, such as resume reviews, mock interviews, and many more online and through phone or video chat appointments here.