Junior Ryan Johnson has a firm handshake and a bright orange tie.
Both of which the accounting major said he hoped would make him attractive to future employers and internship providers at Wednesday's Career Fair in Worthen Arena.
"I want to get their attention and make them remember me," Johnson said. "There are so many people; it's competitive."
As of half an hour before the fair ended, 734 students were recorded to have attended. Career Center Assistant Director Brandon Bute called the number "beautiful" and said it exceeded the previous few years' marks of 500-600 attendees.
Johnson came to the fair from class, his backpack still slung over his shoulders. He said he hadn't had time to prepare a resume, but had paired a cerulean blue dress shirt with his orange tie, hoping to make an impression.
"I came trying to get a feel for if I want to continue pursuing accounting or switch to marketing," Johnson said. "I've been debating both, so today I went around to both areas, seeing if I can line up something for either one."
He's still not sure which field he'll commit to and won't know until December if he landed an internship in either, but Johnson said he'll be pursuing an M.B.A. before seeking a career in auditing or as a marketing manager.
He also said the career fair was a good opportunity to explore the world in which one day he'll work.
"It's very beneficial," Johnson said. "It allows those who want to make something happen to come out and pursue that."
Freshman Shelby Leichty is actively pursuing a future career in the field of her major, actuarial science. She said she felt attending the fair as a freshman was important because it allowed her to begin networking with employers early.
"I hope to have an internship after my sophomore year," Leichty said. "And I want to be a senior who's confident and aware of my credentials."
Leichty prepared for the fair by attending a workshop hosted by Gamma Iota Sigma, Ball State's premier Finance and Insurance student organization. There, she said she and other attendees were addressed by a professional who offered advice on what prospective employees might be looking for in applicants.
Friends and students in Gamma Iota helped Leichty perfect her resume. She said she spent time before the fair learning her resume inside and out and going over her personal talking points.
Her preparation extended to developing a professional appearance as well. "I actually went to Wal-Mart a week ago and bought black dress paints," Leichty said. "I'd forgotten to bring any to college."
Leichty knows she wants to be an actuary, but isn't sure exactly in what field she'll work. But she said through the fair she was able to learn more about the sub-fields and discover she's interested in human capital.
She was also able to land an interview.
After attending a pre-fair seminar given by the consulting and investment firm Mercer, Leichty met with the company at the fair and scheduled an interview for a paid summer internship.
"The chances of a freshman getting that internship are pretty slim," Leichty said. "But – and it's not even a but – if they offered it to me, I'd take it. Anything can happen."
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