The concourse of the Dunn-Oliver Acadome buzzed with opportunity on Oct.16th as more than 65 vendors lined the walkways for Alabama State University’s annual career fair. Tables overflowed with informational materials, business cards and branded gifts, while students arrived professionally dressed with resumes in hand, eager to connect with employers offering internships, graduate programs and full-time jobs.

“This is one of my best career fairs yet,” said Sabrina Simmons, Ed.D., assistant vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Student Development, and Engagement. “Every year, we are about continuous improvement. The students are engaging, they are ready and the feedback from employers has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Simmons explained that while Alabama State University has always hosted career fairs, the event has expanded under her leadership since she joined the university in 2021. The fair began virtually during the pandemic and has since transformed into one of the university’s largest and most engaging in-person recruiting events.

“Once we moved back in person, I wanted employers on the concourse so students could see every table,” Simmons, Ed.D., said. “Today it is completely filled, and I love seeing how much it continues to grow each year.”

From law enforcement and environmental science to finance and computer technology, the event showcased diverse professional fields. Shontay Miller, a representative from Grand Valley State University, said the fair allowed her to strengthen partnerships with historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

“I am here to promote our HBCU-HSI Consortium Program,” Miller said. “We have a partnership with Alabama State University to recruit students for our master’s programs in applied computer science and cybersecurity. We help them secure graduate assistantships and scholarships so they can complete their degrees with little to no debt.”

Other recruiters praised the turnout and professionalism of the students. Jennifer McCord, representing the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, said her department actively recruits Alabama State graduates. “We have hired several employees from Alabama State University,” McCord said. “In the last six months, we just hired someone in our branch who graduated from here. We do great work.”

Representatives from the business sector also highlighted opportunities for flexible employment and skill development. Sonja Giles, who represented H&R Block, said her company offers free tax preparation courses for students to help them gain professional experience. “It is hard when you graduate and do not have experience,” Giles said. “We provide that with flexible hours and adjustable pay.”

For Larry Williams of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, the career fair provided a chance to connect with motivated students interested in public service. “Every time I come here, I end up getting a call saying we have someone from Alabama State in the academy,” Williams said. “Pay, benefits and opportunity, that is what we offer.”

Students described the fair as both inspiring and practical. John Coulter, a senior majoring in computer information systems, said it was one of the most engaging events of the semester. “There are a lot of opportunities to network and make connections,” he said. “If you are not here, you are missing out on learning how to better yourself and your future.”

Sophomore Jasmine Meares, a business management major, said she valued the wide range of companies represented. “It is very informational,” Meares said. “You get to learn about different agencies, salaries and internships.”

Tamiya Reese, a sophomore computer information systems major, agreed. “It is helpful and informational,” Reese said. “Better luck next time to anyone who missed it.”

Even first-year students came ready to explore professional pathways. “They have something for everybody,” said Imani Carter, a freshman majoring in health information management. “Never miss a career fair. Never.”

Recruiters from across the country shared that sentiment. Mark Mac, senior manager with the Government Finance Officers Association, said his organization is working to increase diversity within the finance sector. “African Americans are vastly under-represented in municipal finance,” Mac said. “Our goal is to build long-term partnerships with HBCUs that have programs in government and finance. You cannot go wrong with that.”

By the end of the event, the concourse was filled with handshakes, exchanged resumes and renewed confidence among students. Simmons, Ed.D., said her goal was not only to connect students with employers but also to reinforce a mindset of professionalism and perseverance.

“Simmons said with a smile, “be determined, be committed, investigate, show out, show up.”