A Host of Opportunities: Southern University’s 2024 Career Fair

Southern University’s annual career fair, facilitated by the Office of Career Services, took place on February 21, 2024, at the F.G. Activity Center—affectionately known as the Mini Dome. This eagerly anticipated event serves not only as a platform for Southern University students to advance in their career pursuits but also as an opportunity for companies and organizations to connect with talented potential employees and interns from the university.
This year’s career fair had an outstanding participation of 123 companies. The Southern Digest had an opportunity to speak with Inroads, a notable organization dedicated to creating pathways for diverse high school and college students nationwide. Inroads focus on facilitating internships with various companies, with an emphasis on promoting minority representation in executive positions. Their initiatives include programs like HBCU+, designed to connect corporations with talented and diverse students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
According to Inroads, HBCU+ offers tailored career readiness services, enhances the capabilities of career centers, and increases student access to internship and employment opportunities with Fortune 1000 companies and federal agencies. When the Digest asked about the qualities Inroads seeks in students, Mr. Mark Mcclendon, University Relations Manager, emphasized the importance of authenticity, leadership, and teamwork skills. He specifically noted the company’s interest in engaging with black students and highlighted the significance of professionalism and manners observed among students at HBCUs. “We look for personalities and someone who will be themselves and has good leadership and teamwork skills. This company really wants to interact with black students. When I come to an HBCU, I notice students with manners and who know how to dress professionally. That is something we take notice of”.
Feedback from students attending the career fair reflects its impact on their career aspirations and perspectives. Chase Raymond, a sophomore Child Development major, expressed excitement about discovering new companies aligned with her interests in enriching children’s lives. For her, the career fair provides a valuable opportunity to connect with organizations dedicated to child development beyond the local community. “(The) career fair is going really well for me. It is exciting to meet these companies that I never knew about. As a Child Development major, it’s important to me that I get connected with companies that help enrich children, not only here in Baton Rouge… but from all over.”
Similarly, Kennedi Merrit, a junior agricultural science major, found the event eye-opening regarding the diverse opportunities available in the field of agriculture. The career fair reassured her about the multitude of options awaiting her upon graduation: “This career fair definitely opened my eyes to how many companies are involved in agriculture. It gives me a sigh of relief knowing that when I graduate, I have options.”
Southern University’s annual career fair serves as a tool connecting students with prospective employers and internship opportunities. The event not only broadens students’ horizons by exposing them to various career paths, but also facilitates meaningful connections between students and organizations aligned with their passions and career goals. As evidenced by the enthusiasm and insights shared by attendees, the career fair plays a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of students’ professional journeys.