The summer employment fair returns for another year on Wednesday, February 10th. The fair will host a multitude of job opportunities for students, including summer jobs, part-time jobs, and internships in specific fields of study.
Due to COVID-19 the event will be entirely virtual. Students who wish to attend are required to register via handshake. Katie Korpi, Director for Career Services at NMU, shares what students can expect.
“Students get an opportunity to meet and network with employers in two main ways: individual sessions (10 minutes long, one on one with the employer), and group sessions (30 minute presentations with the employer…students should be prepared to interact and ask questions. Currently there are 63 employers registered to attend,” Korpi said.
The different structure allows for different opportunities while also adding in some limitations. New employers have had the opportunity to join the job fair now that it has gone virtual, although everyone certainly misses in-person interaction, Korpi said. For those unsure if the job fair is for them, Korpi offers advice.
“Don’t underestimate the importance of making contact with an employer or recruiter directly in catapulting you to the top of a pile of online applicants. Prepare and show your best qualities, be your best advocate and know your worth,” Korpi said.
The employers who attend the summer employment fair host a broad amount of opportunities for students seeking work in multiple fields. Many employers are outdoor related, including Mackinac State Historic Parks, and Leader Creek Fisheries, as well as many campsites looking to hire students as counselors and guides.
“The Summer Employment Fair is intended to promote summer and temporary employment opportunities as well as internships and other experiential learning,” Korpi said.
Marquette businesses are hiring for students who may want to stay in the area over the summer. The Marquette Maritime museum is looking for an intern on a volunteer basis, and NMU is also hiring ten students for orientation staff. Other jobs not associated with the summer employment fair can also be found online at https://nmu.joinhandshake.com/.
“Handshake has improved the user experience since our Fall Semester Fair, implementing feedback and troubleshooting issues where appropriate.” Korpi said. “The relationships they build with recruiters can be the “foot in the door” of a company or organization which gives them a considerable advantage over those who wait and apply without an inside contact.”
Contact [email protected] for more information, and to see what employers have registered for the event visit joinhandshake.com/career_fairs.