Washington State University will welcome 136 employers to meet with students at the spring Career Expo, with virtual sessions set for Monday, Feb. 7 and in-person meetings Tuesday, Feb. 8 in Beasley Coliseum.
The popular biennial event is hosted and organized by the Academic Success and Career Center (ASCC), part of the Division of Academic Engagement and Student Achievement in the provost’s office.
Job- and internship-seeking students can register to attend one or both spring events through the job platform Handshake.
“All students from every major across WSU can participate in and benefit from this spring’s Expo,” said Amanda Morgan, ASCC associate director. “We encourage them to attend whether they are looking for a job, considering an internship, or just beginning to think about their future after WSU.
“It’s significant to note that 98 of the employers attending—or 72%—report that they have internships available.”
Eight hours of recruiting time, follow-up interviews
Students can sign up for online appointments between 2–6 p.m. Monday with 83 companies via Airmeet, a virtual event platform. The Tuesday in-person fair in Beasley with 95 employers is from noon–4 p.m., with masks required for all attendees. Morgan said Expo will follow CDC, state, and WSU guidelines relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A dedicated shuttle will transport students between the CUB and Beasley, running every 10–15 minutes.
Following Expo, up to 40 employers plan to conduct on-campus interviews with WSU students.
Scope of companies attending
“There is something for everyone at Expo,” said Morgan, referring to the broad array of regional and national businesses participating. They range from the Sherwin-Williams Co. to Target, from Ethos Group to Thrivent, and from the Army Corps of Engineers-Hydropower Intern Program to Columbia Bank and E. and J. Gallo Winery-Western Region. There will also be representatives from graduate education programs at the event. Detailed information on each is available to registrants.
“A great way for students to maximize their Expo experience is to study employer descriptions on Handshake and also prepare to interact with representatives from a variety of companies,” said Morgan. She encourages students to learn about companies they recognize as well as those new to them. “Every employer offers employees and interns opportunities to learn, grow, perform, and thrive.”
Preparation opportunities for students
Ahead of Expo, ASCC offers a robust lineup of services to help students put their best, most professional foot forward at the career fair:
- A series of six half-hour workshops—all virtual starting at 4:10 p.m.—focus on topics such as “LinkedIn 101,” “Ace Your Interview: Skills to Get You Hired,” and “Resume Building 101.”
- Career coaching with professional staff to build confidence and comfort with the job-seeking process, including resume reviews from 2-4 p.m. weekdays and assistance creating a student’s “30-second Introduction” that can be practiced and used to succinctly describe their interests, skills, and education when talking to recruiters.
- The Cougar Closet in Lighty 160 that is full of free professional clothing options that students can wear to Expo and interviews.
- Online information sessions for registered students that are available on Handshake, produced by employers as well as ASCC and others on topics relevant to employment and careers.
- Advice and tips regarding online etiquette for interviews.
Morgan said great attendance is expected at the spring Expo. The fall 2021 event—co-hosted with the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture—welcomed 1,200 students in person and another 250 virtually.
“We, at ASCC, are ready to answer questions and help students prepare for Expo, where employers are eager to meet Cougars and give them jobs and internships. The opportunities are tremendous.”
