If I were to sum up the week of Embry-Riddle’s Industry/Career Expo, I may break out into song, signing one of Andy Williams’ Christmas tunes: “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Why?! There are so many reasons why, but for the last two years, I have eagerly awaited the week.

Embry-Riddle’s Career Services Office puts on the Industry/Career Expo at both the Prescott and Daytona Beach campuses every Fall, and at both events, there are dozens and dozens of employers–from many different industries–looking for their next potential interns or full-time employees. Leading up to the Expo, which takes place in the middle of the week, there are lots of company information sessions which are great opportunities to meet and network with employers, many of whom are ERAU Alumni, and to learn about some of the companies.

This year’s Industry/Career Expo was going to be a unique one for me as this would be the first one that I would be working as a Student Assistant and Career Services Student Ambassador for; so much planning and coordination goes into putting on the Expo, and it was an honor to be a part of the team who puts on the Expo.

The big week all started after classes and work on Monday, October 5 at the Republic Airways information session. I was able to learn a lot about this regional airline, even though I was a business major and they typically recruit a lot more Aeronautical Science (pilots) than business majors from ERAU.

Tuesday was one of the busier days as, after class and work, I was tasked with helping with the United and Delta Air Lines information sessions. Like the Republic info session, it was great to learn more about these companies and potential internship opportunities. The Delta information session did have an interesting twist to it as one of the representatives provided a lot of good feedback on what not to do at the Expo like do not keep shaking the person’s had for a very long time nor ask the company what they have to offer you.

And finally Wednesday arrived, and it was show time. There were 97 companies with booths in the ICI Center (where the basketball and volleyball teams play). Wednesday was an awesome day filled with talking to company representatives about potential opportunities, catching up with old friends, and helping the Career Services staff with things as they came up. It was a very long day, but it was so cool to see all of the months of preparation finally come together and to hear about students’ success at the Expo.

Thursday was a much quieter day, and boy, that was welcomed, especially walking more than five miles at the Expo the day before. Although, I had the opportunity to return back to the ICI Center for an interview where a team helped transform it into an interview area as soon as the Expo ended Wednesday night. Friday was even more quiet which was nice as I was able to catch up on some studying and homework and go over a fantastic week.

The Industry/Career Expo is truly an awesome event that helps make ERAU unique, as you have representatives and recruiters from dozens of aerospace companies in one room, and there is a decent chance that one of them could employ you after school or host you as an intern. It’s a great way to network and learn about so many different options that we have after school, especially as life is just beginning.

Until next time,

Jack