Careers Day offers students and employers a chance to connect

On September 23, the University of Alberta held its annual Careers Day. Companies and organizations had the opportunity to set up tables and reach out to students. Students were able to ask questions, hand out resumes, and network with professionals from various fields.

Careers Day acts as an important point of contact for students. Especially for those in fields that prioritize internships and working experience, opportunities such as Careers Day are helpful in accessing opportunities.

Concerns regarding the current job market

Roshni, a computer engineering student currently in a co-op program, mentioned how beneficial this kind of networking opportunity was.

“With the job market nowadays, we do get anxious when it comes closer to our co-op terms. Knowing about the smaller companies that could have positions for any tech roles is really nice.”

Today’s job market is difficult, with oversaturation in certain fields and the rise of technologies such as artificial intelligence. With the struggles students face in attaining employment, they take all opportunities they can to market themselves to potential employers. 

Joshua Visser with Carmacks Enterprises emphasized the level of engagement and high number of students at the job fair. He elaborated on the importance of Careers Day. “Exposure and networking is critical, so you have to make sure that you’re putting as much effort into your job searches as you are into your studies.”

Esu, an environmental engineering student, mentioned the same. “I was hoping to find some new connections, to gain the opportunity to be able to work with a company and learn more about my field … getting an idea of who to talk to and know will help in the long run, to land that offer.”

Students and employers alike benefit from job fairs

The career fair can also be inspiration for students that are questioning their future career, or are new to the university.

First years Anushwa and Sophie came to the career fair to explore what the future may hold for them. “Looking around, there are a lot of higher co-op opportunities, and further in my degree it might be useful,” Sophie added.

Even in first year, there can be benefits from seeing potential future opportunities at the job fair. “Getting experience with talking to employers is a big step,” they added.

The job fair is beneficial to companies as well, giving exposure to organizations that may not be easily accessible otherwise. Employers hope to engage as many students as possible, with some returning to Careers Day multiple years in a row.

Eric with the Robin Hood Association stated, “We’re not looking for PhDs, we’re looking for people that want to learn and challenge themselves … the U of A is a fantastic sponsor for creating intelligent, strong people.”