Career Fair recruiter: 'Lakers make our organization better'

October 25, 2022 (Volume 46, Number 5)
Article by Michele Coffill

people walk among rows of booths at the career fair, held at the DeVos Place Convention Center

student in suit and tie smiles at a person with his back to the camera; a man in the background is holding a cell phone to his right ear and speaking

More than 1,400 students and alumni participated in the October 11 Fall Career Fair at the DeVos Place Convention Center.

Photo Credit: Erik Holladay-McCann

More than 1,400 students and alumni participated in the Fall Career Fair October 11 at the DeVos Place Convention Center.

Megan Riksen, assistant director of the Career Center, said it felt great to be back in person after two years of virtual events. "There was a lot of positive energy in the room from both employers and students," she said. "Everyone seemed to be enjoying being able to network again face-to-face."

Steven Smith, senior talent acquisition specialist for University of Michigan Health-West, was recruiting for clinical and non-clinical positions at the hospital system.

"There are a variety of opportunities available within our organization, and events like this help us direct students to positions that align with their career goals and meet our hiring needs," Smith said. "It's beneficial for students to talk with a company representative when starting a job search because it allows them to discuss challenges they may face."

Molly Brown is a corporate recruiter for Auto-Owners Insurance. The company offers paid internships and full-time opportunities in a variety of areas including accounting, marketing, IT security and software development. Brown said there's a reason she regularly attends GVSU Career Fairs.

"GVSU’s caliber of student always exceeds our expectations," Brown said. "Students are equipped with the skills our organization is looking for. Lakers make our organization better!"