A Healthcare Career Fair was held on Monday, Sept. 11 in the Whitman Commons. It encompassed 17 healthcare systems from across Michigan and Wisconsin, all offering opportunities for a wide range of healthcare professions. 

This career fair was focused towards senior nursing students, however, students from a multitude of healthcare disciplines attended. 

“The goal is to expose those interested in healthcare to healthcare systems in Michigan and Wisconsin and to connect them,” said Michelle Andriacchi, assistant professor of nursing. “So we can have our students who graduate move successfully into a career they want to be in at a healthcare system that matches them.” 

Students were provided the opportunity to meet with employers and network for potential job opportunities. In addition, some healthcare systems were offering summer externship options for students. 

“There are lots of career options to get started, even if they want to just feel it out,” Andriacchi said. “It is another great opportunity to have more exposure.” 

As far as job trends go currently, Andriacchi explained that the healthcare industry, but especially nursing, will always be in demand. All professions in the healthcare industry right now desperately need employees. Having healthcare career fairs like this one benefits both employers and students.

“Being able to match them with their perfect employer so they have longevity in that career, and they are happy in their job, which will also decrease any kind of burnout,” Andriacchi said. 

In careers with that high of a demand, decreasing the chances of burnout for employees is imperative to keeping job positions filled. It is no secret that the healthcare field and its employees have faced many challenges in the last several years, from COVID-19 to worker shortages. Being able to find a workplace and job that diminishes these challenges is incredibly beneficial for employees. 

“I am excited to see how far our senior students have come and that they are graduating and entering the workforce, and we have created an opportunity to set them up for success,” Andriacchi said. 

Senior nursing students, who are nearing graduation and preparing to enter the workforce, were able to jump start their professional careers at this career fair even before graduating.

“I am excited to see our nursing students come to this career fair, as this is their next step. This is the next step in their journey,” Andriacchi said. “I think we will have more nurses in our workforce saving lives.” 

The next healthcare career fair will take place in January. Andriacchi encourages any students with interest or questions to contact the Nursing Department.