N.C Central career and internship fair host many opportunities for students

In the New Student Center on Thursday, students showed up in professional attire to attend the 2023 Career and Internship Fair, hosted by the Career Development Center.

Numerous students filled the event hall to visit employers from a variety of fields. These fields include business, accounting, cybersecurity, and IT. Companies like Cisco, Allstate, Great Wolf Lodge and the Black Collegiate Gaming Association discussed career paths with the students in attendance.

“GSK is a pharmaceutical company, and with NC Central offering a biomedical program, we have future leader programs where graduates can rotate in three areas of research and development,” said Tameka Royster with GSK. “We have seen a lot of potential students.”

Employers weren’t the only ones who benefited from the fair. Students had the chance to exercise their interview and pitching skills. They also expanded their network and discovered new avenues that they can use to be successful.

“I was looking for information on internships,”said Cobe Wilson. “Someone told me instead of staying an extra semester to get a summer internship, search for new grad opportunities if you’re close to graduating and want to get into the workforce.”

Jaydn Hinton said that she “really wanted more insight on the different opportunities we have, meeting with employers, using our resources and expanding our network.” By the time the event was over at 1 p.m, Brianna Phifer said she accomplished what she came to do. “I’ve had the ability to get the experience of networking, putting names to faces, and reconnecting with people,” she said.

The turnout for this year’s career fair exceeded expectations. “We do quite a few career fairs, the only reason our table received less visitors was because our sponsors forgot to ship our swag out,” said Shelly Belton from the Defense Intelligence Agency. “But even without our advertising, we’ve had quite a few students come out. We’re impressed they’re still coming.”

Credit was also given to the professors for encouraging their students to come as well. “We’re also grateful to the professors pressing students to come out and encouraging them to come.” said Aisha Cornett from the DIA.

There’s only hope that there are more opportunities like this for students, but for now, the career fair was a success.