UNK brings hundreds of employers to campus for Career and Internship Fair

KEARNEY, Neb. (KSNB) – As the end of the school year approaches, UNK students have a chance to explore what’s next. Between 120 and 140 employers introduced themselves to 500 to 600 students, presenting career and internship opportunities.

UNK has hosted this event for over 30 years, and for at least the last decade, it has been held at the Health and Sports Center. One school official said what students learn in class prepares them for this moment.

“I think there’s a lot of stuff that translates from the classroom to over here—communication skills, critical thinking, and how to navigate this environment,” said John Gibbs, Director of Academic Advising and Career Development. “But one thing that they can’t really take away from the classroom to here I think is just having the sheer number of connections in one place at one time.”

Gibbs said students will learn how to network with a variety of employers, emphasizing that the workforce is all about connections.

“I always say it’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” said Tiffany McDonald, Operations Supervisor at GIX Logistics. “Networking with multiple companies, no matter what your degree is, will be super valuable when you’re out applying for jobs.”

McDonald added that employers look for enthusiasm—people who want to learn, grow, and be themselves. One UNK senior shared how career fairs have helped her prepare for life after graduation.

“It really helps us to find careers,” said Courtney Cox. “I never thought that I would work at BluePrint, it’s an engine manufacturing shop. So, it’s so awesome that I was able to learn about an accounting possibility there, accounting and finance and get that opportunity that I’ll graduate and will move into a full-time position there.”

Businesses also value college graduates who have completed internships.

“I think it’s super valuable just because of the experience,” said McDonald. “A lot of jobs these days are looking more for the experience. Degrees are obviously very important, but having the experience and kid of knowing what the industry is like is super valuable.”

Some internships even lead to full-time positions within the company.

“I started in the store for Buckle as a sales and management intern,” said UNK Senior Hope Anderson. “I really liked it, but I knew I wanted something kind of more where I can develop myself for like longer..I wasn’t sure if I wanted to be a manger so I found Human Resources at the corporate office and I feel in love it.”

Gibbs noted that word-of-mouth is still a key way employers fill positions, adding that employers at the Career and Internship Fair may know of other job openings. He hopes the event teaches students that having a degree can open many doors.

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