As the job market shifts and industries evolve, students are learning that career readiness is more than a checklist item; it’s a moving target.
Students across the world are realizing that securing a job after graduation requires more than just a degree, as college graduate unemployment rates rest at nearly five percent. In today’s market, employers are seeking candidates with practical experience and career competencies that can highlight a clear sense of direction. As a result, students are hoping to enhance their professional reputation before receiving their diplomas.
Students at Stony Brook University faced that reality during the Career Center’s job and internship season this semester. The fairs, designed to connect students with real-world opportunities and help develop confidence within their professional identities, represent more than just a resume drop. They offer students a space to ask questions and test communication skills with recruiters from real companies.
“It’s practice,” said Kimberly Joy Dixon, the director of employer engagement and recruitment strategies at the Career Center. “It’s an opportunity in a safer environment within a university setting for them to practice talking about themselves to hiring organizations, but ultimately, it gives students a place to come out of their comfort zone.”
The Stony Brook University Career Center hosted six major industry job and internship fairs this fall and attracted more than 2,900 students and 230 employers. Recruiters from non-profit organizations and healthcare, to engineering and business, filled the Student Activities Center Ballroom throughout September and early October for a chance to meet Stony Brook talent face-to-face. “It’s a bridge that gets you to a sea of opportunity, versus just one,” Dixon said.
The Healthcare, Research and Helping Professions fair drew the largest turnout of the season, with 923 student check-ins and 67 different companies visiting campus on October 3. Representatives from Stony Brook University Hospital and other research institutions came ready to discuss internships, volunteer opportunities and full-time roles with students from all majors.
Stephanie Forella, a senior studying pre-med psychology, highlighted the fair’s importance.
“I think career fairs give students exposure to companies and, at the very least, learn about those companies’ prospective openings,” she said, “at the most, form a connection that is pivotal to their career.”
Students crowded around tables to discuss the path to success, a conversation that many said made their career goals feel more realistic.
“I had several small interactions along the process that solidified my confidence that I was at the right place at the right time,” Forella said.
The Engineering and Information Technology fairs offered students in technical fields an opportunity to speak with employers across related industries. Recruiters from organizations such as Brookhaven National Laboratory and Zebra Technologies gave students insight into the qualities companies look for in recent college graduates. These fairs underscore Stony Brook University’s large STEM population and highlight the growing demand for students who can apply innovations to real-world challenges.
The Accounting and Business, Communications & Journalism fairs invited students to explore a range of both corporate and creative career paths. Employers emphasized the importance of interpersonal skills, professionalism and the ability to clearly communicate ideas. Recruiters also shared their insights on new opportunities and industry developments, encouraging students to consider a broader range of career options.
In preparation for each of the fairs, the Career Center hosted several review sessions to help students present themselves with confidence. The events provided tips on professional introductions, resumes and digital networking through sites such as LinkedIn and Handshake. Additionally, the Career Center hosted a Career Closet pop-up event, where students could find free professional clothing while supplies lasted.
Recruiters who participated in the recent career fairs, many of which were Stony Brook alumni, described the event as energetic, well-organized and engaging. They highlighted being impressed by the level of professionalism and the preparation done by the students, stating that they came ready to make meaningful connections.
Stephanie Curry, HR manager at FORTE Construction, discussed the importance of the fairs for recruitment.
“These events are a valuable part of our recruitment strategy,” she said, “They allow us to meet potential candidates face-to-face, assess soft skills and identify individuals who align with our company culture.”
Curry also noted that it helps companies increase “brand awareness” to those who may not have considered their company in the past and opens the door to future internships or full-time roles. Her remarks represent the views of many other recruiters who attended this season’s fairs.
Through its initiatives, the Stony Brook Career Center continues to shorten the bridge between student and professional life. By offering opportunities for connection, networking and self-development, the university continues to reinforce its commitment to student success beyond graduation. These events not only prepare students for professional life but also encourage them to explore careers they might not have expected.
— Hammy Clemons
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