With the number of Buffalo State alumni attending Buffalo State’s upcoming job fair, you could almost consider it a reunion. Job Fair 2014 takes place on Thursday, March 13, in the Campbell Student Union's Social Hall.
"Twenty-five percent of the employers who are participating graduated from Buffalo State," said Stephanie Zuckerman-Aviles, director of the Career Development Center. Recruiters who are also alumni will be designated by a star. Buffalo State students and alumni are encouraged to attend.
The four gold sponsors of this year’s fair are Curtis Screw Company LLC; Northtown Automotive Companies; National Fuel; and Travelers.
"We consistently hire students from Buffalo State, and they've worked out great," said Paul Hojnacki, president of Curtis Screw. "We have a long-term alliance with Buffalo State, especially with graduates from the engineering technology programs. Every summer, we give a Hoskins scholarship to a Buffalo State student who interns here."
Preceding the 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. fair, Lynn Rogers, student employment coordinator and organizer of the event, has arranged a networking lunch to introduce employers to faculty. "We want employers to tell faculty members what they need," said Rogers, "and we want faculty members to be able to point out the strengths and experiences of our students." Many departments will be represented, including business, fashion and textile technology, mathematics, and psychology.
Northtown Automotive, which was one of the sponsors of last year’s job fair, recently sponsored Manners Matter, an event to coach students in professional etiquette and networking skills. National Fuel and Travelers both participate in the on-campus interview program in addition to attending the job fair.
"This job fair is career-oriented," said Rogers. "It focuses on internships and full-time jobs."
GEICO human resources employees (including a Buffalo State graduate) are facilitating workshops to show students how to make the most of attending job fairs. Tips include:
A "Get in Shape for Job Fair 2014" workshop will take place on Tuesday, March 11, at 12:15 p.m. in Bacon Hall 211.
More than 45 employers are participating in this year’s 3-hour job fair. “We extended the time to allow for more interaction," said Rogers, "and we hope some of our evening students will be able to attend."
Silver sponsors are Mainstreethost, Merchants Insurance Group, and Ingram Micro; bronze sponsors are LoVullo, Media Sales Plus, Transitional Services, and Spencer Hotels. "We're grateful to every organization that participates," she said, "and we know that a Buffalo State graduate will make a great employee at their company."
