College students are often asked what they want to do after they graduate. The Career and Internship Fair at Eastern Connecticut State University on Oct. 25 helped some students answer that question. At the very least, these companies were eager to make connections with students soon to enter the professional world.

A variety of career fields were represented at the fair. Students were able to strike up conversations with representatives of companies in fields including STEM, entertainment, education, government, healthcare, business and more.

Students like junior mathematics major Aaron Matus enjoyed the wide range of networking opportunities offered at the event. “The opportunities presented allowed students here to explore options for their careers and it was overall a very pleasurable event,” said Matus.

Matus, who aspires to go into actuarial science, intended to “make connections” with companies relevant to his career interests. Eighteen of the 62 companies represented were in the fields of business, insurance, finance, economics and accounting.

The wide range of career fields was reflected in the interests of students who attended. Senior psychology major Allyson Daleb attended the event in search of a professional opportunity “in the mental health field.”

The Office of Career Success provided several opportunities for students to enhance the event. Junior Lena Jones, also a psychology major, likewise hoped to find professional opportunities for herself. More so, she was there to help others find these connections.

“My role as a member of the Office of Career Success was to make sure everyone was informed at the fair and prepared to come in,” said Jones.

Myva Lagout, a senior communication major and social media/residence hall intern for the Office of Career Success, had a different but equally helpful role: taking free LinkedIn headshots for students.

Given that professional headshot packages often cost several hundred dollars, Lagout’s services were of high value. Beyond her role as photographer, Lagout was able to “network and meet some employers.”

Networking opportunities were everywhere. Charlie Chatterton, associate professor of business administration, believes that the importance of networking cannot be overstated.

Making professional connections will assist soon-to-be graduates in their transitions into the workforce, said Chatterton. “Having a chance to interact” and being able to “just go see what it’s like” at several organizations is a simple but important opportunity, said Chatterton.

Chatterton also spoke highly of Eastern’s Office of Career Success. “Any student should go there,” he said. Among the office’s important services are free LinkedIn headshots, a "career closet" will professional attire for students to rent, and resume writing/interview preperation workshos.

Chatterton’s advice regarding these services mirrors his advice about the Career and Internship Fair: “Take advantage of it if you need to.”