Students will have the opportunity to speak with more than 120 potential employers at the Ball State Career Center's Fall Career Fair today from noon until 4 p.m. in Worthen Arena.
The fair provides an opportunityto network with possible employers, some of which will be doing on-the-spot interviews for permanent positions and internships.
"We are hoping to connect with potential candidates for several of our open positions," said Sarah Reasoner, a recruitment representative from financial company Sallie Mae, who will be present at the fair.
The companies will represent a broad spectrum of careers and will be looking for students in majors from sales and accounting to information technology and advertising, while others will have opportunities for any student interested.
"There are lots of opportunities to be had, and it's important for students to check them out," said James Mitchell, associate director for employer relations and recruitment programs and the organizer of the fair. "In today's world of work, it's important to think broadly."
Although many businesses may be hoping to hire more experienced students, Mitchell said underclassmen still have something to gain by attending the fair.
"A freshman might be able to go and experience opportunities they haven't before," Mitchell said. "You're all the better prepared for when you do want to go [as an upperclassman]."
Mitchell also said students should plan to dress professionally to make good first impressions.
Jessica Fouse, assistant human resource manager at Astral Industries, stressed the importance of a solid first impression.
"I think what is impressive is when students know about themselves, what strengths they have, what they're good at," Fouse said.
Fouse and Reasoner also said students often stand out if they have done research on their companies beforehand.
A networking reception open to all students will be held in the arena lounge immediately following the fair until roughly 5:30 p.m.
Mitchell said the Career Center will hold programs from September until October preparing students for more specific job fair opportunities throughout the semester. Other events will be held in November in celebration of National Career Development Month as well as a graduate school expo on Sept. 21.
Overall Mitchell hopes students will attend the Fall Career Fair because it's a free, easy way to start building contacts with companies that might offer them great opportunities to jump-start their professional careers.
"It's in your backyard, so why wouldn't you try it?" Mitchell said.
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