As Grand Valley State University students began their second week of classes, many searched for opportunities to network, build experience and secure extra income. The annual On-Campus Job Fair, held last Wednesday, gave students the chance to connect directly with potential employers.
From the University’s Tutoring Center to WGVU Public Media and the LGBT Resource Center, the fair exhibited 16 tables of on-campus employers and organizations. Each table was accompanied by two representatives to connect with students and help them navigate the job application process. The event also provided students with an opportunity to discover and engage with departments like University Communications, Laker Food Co. and the Admissions Office.
This year was University Communications Assistant Ronda Huster’s first time attending the fair as a representative for her department, and she felt strongly about the importance of the event’s existence.
“This has been a great opportunity to meet prospective employees face to face, in real life,” said Huster.
While representatives like Huster emphasized the event’s significance from a departmental standpoint, students harbored another perspective. Amani Hurt, a sophomore majoring in marketing with a minor in advertising and public relations, shared her experience about how her networking skills helped to secure a job on campus.
“During my freshman year, I made connections with faculty members who wanted to see me succeed,” Hurt said. “I reached out to them when I started looking for a job, and they helped me find one that fit well.”
Hurt’s perspective highlights the value of the job fair for first-year students in particular. Since new students haven’t been at the University long enough to build faculty relationships, the event provides an accessible way to form the networks that will support students throughout their college career.
Yet, landing a job is only the beginning. Once hired, students face the challenge of time management. Between work responsibilities, academics, campus involvement and a healthy social life, juggling schedules can be an obstacle. On-campus employers say they understand the pressures of college life and are happy to accommodate, which can alleviates some stress. This can allow students to prioritize their education without feeling as if they have to choose between earning an income and keeping up with assignments.
“Working on campus makes balancing (my time) easier because it gives me flexibility,” said Hurt. “I can study, take notes or work on assignments during downtime, which helps me stay productive.”
This balance is one of the reasons many students opt for on-campus employment, in addition to the added convenience of being closer to their workplace. Rather than spending valuable time commuting between work and school, busy students are able to move from class directly to work, optimizing the day’s short span of hours.
The On-Campus Job Fair emphasized more than just available positions, it showcased how on-campus employment can support growth, connection and balance. These positions are able to be more than just resume-fillers and paychecks; they also act as opportunities to build skills while prioritizing education.
