FAMU held a networking mixer giving students an opportunity to mingle with recruiters in a more relaxed setting. The mixer was the last event to prep students before FAMU’s career expo.
After opening remarks from President Larry Robinson and Student body president Rochard Moricette, students began to engage with recruiters.
Recruiters from all over came to meet with rattlers including Duke Energy recruiter, Jordan Martin. Martin’s main goal at the mixer was to relate to students and to instill confidence in them.
“Tonight, is a warmup for the career fair. I want to let the students know that I have been in their shoes before, and they are more than capable when it comes to joining the workforce,” said Martin. “I want the students to know that they can do whatever they put their minds to.”
Group conversations were held at tables giving students a chance to open up more with recruiters. Career and Professional Development Center Assistant Director, Marie Smallwood, says that these group conversations are highly beneficial to students when they attend the career expo.
“We have noticed that some of the students who only go to the career expo are more nervous during their conversations with recruiters,” said Smallwood. “In these relaxed settings the students are more honest in what they are looking for and the students are able to articulate themselves better.”
Azari Alexander hoped to connect with company recruiters on a personal level.
“I am hoping to connect with a lot of career partners,” said Alexander. “I’m an MBA candidate, so I’m looking for an internship and to make personal connections.”
Mr. FAMU, Crenel Francis, says that the networking mixer is an extra chance for students to prepare themselves for a successful future.
“Tonight, is an opportunity to set yourself up for success at the career expo,” said Francis. “There will be more companies, more recruiters and more competitors at the expo, so getting to know the recruiters tonight will help students secure internships and job opportunities.”
The mixer was also beneficial to the students who attended because the students gained the edge over other students who will only attend the career expo.
“Attending the mixer is extremely beneficial for the students because it shows the employers that these students are so serious about advancing their career,” said Smallwood. “They are not only going to the expo; they are here tonight as well giving them the advantage.”
For more information, visit FAMU’s campus Career and Professional Development Center.