Longwood's Job and Internship Fair Brings Students and Companies Together

By Christopher Davis
ReporterLongwood hosted a large array of companies Sept. 23 for the Job and Internship Fair, bringing potential employers for soon-to-be graduates and internship opportunities for many others. Thirty-seven companies spread themselves throughout the Lee Grand Dining Room and opened their doors of opportunity for students.

The companies ranged from law enforcement to banks, health care to energy and retail to correctional education. There was a little bit of everything for everyone including underclassmen. Many non-seniors believe that a job fair is not for them, but with the large number of companies that the Career Center brings in from different backgrounds, there is always something to learn or an opportunity that could pop up.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the three companies I spoke with because they were all very friendly and great people to talk to," said senior Rachel Price. "Fortunately the three companies I spoke with all had Longwood alumni, which was a great sign.

Many of the employers in attendance were looking for any and every major; however, the majority of the companies were looking for business majors. This was a great benefit to the largest major at Longwood, but definitely not a deterrent for other majors.

"[Longwood's] a great institution, and Dominion understands just how important it is to find interns and new full-time employees," said Larry Bateman of Dominion Virginia Power. "We're going to have a lot of positions to fill over the next few years in every department."

"We're not really looking for any particular majors, just a person with a strong work ethic [and] a good background," said Dave Zitzelberger of Peebles. "Everyone can bring something to the table."

Experience is something that all companies are looking for, but the young talent coming from Longwood was the consensus for why employers came to Farmville for jobs. Openings are popping up in every company that has come to campus.

Peebles is opening up 35 stores this year and is planning to open 35 to 50 stores in 2009.

BDO Seidman came specifically looking to take advantage of Longwood's accounting program after hiring 2008 graduate Meredith Newcomb.

Dominion, like several other companies in Virginia, has over 40 percent of their workforce eligible for retirement in the next five years.

Walgreens sent back Longwood alumna Kelly Williams, who was hired after graduating to be the liaison between the company and her alma mater.

Northwestern Mutual sent one of their top office representatives and 2008 graduate Dale Baake to recruit the newest talent at Longwood.

The career fairs are open to all students. Yes, even freshmen can potentially find a job from the Job and Internship Fair. Students should attend all of those they can so even if they do not get a job now, it is still experience for the future.

"I plan to keep going to job fairs until I finally get a job for after I graduate," said Price.

Fortunately for her, Longwood's Career Center will continue to have job fairs in the near future. Just check out the Career Center Web site at www.longwood.edu/career.