Vandal Networking Night, an event organized by the University of Idaho’s Career Services and the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA), aimed to help UI students eager to get a head start in the professional world.
Students were given the opportunity Tuesday night to interact with potential employers in an intimate setting by having real conversations in an environment less crowded than the Career Fair.
Vandal Networking Night hosted 24 employers that students of all majors were encouraged to meet.
John Mangiantini, assistant director for Internships and Employer Relations, said he often hears invited employers compliment UI students after the event.
“The job market is getting competitive. They’re having trouble finding people. It’s a good time to be in the job market if you’re a student,” Mangiantini said.
The event began with a panel of company representatives answering questions from students. Shelby Wirkus, a representative from NRS, has been with the company for three years and is still going to school. Wirkus said NRS, an outdoor supply store based in Moscow, is looking for potential employees to fill both full-time and part-time positions.
Shyanne Stuck, majoring in human resources management, came to Vandal Networking Night to learn more about potential employers.
“You get out of it what you put into it,” Stuck said. “Be prepared. Go into it knowing you have to start the conversation.”
Mangiantini said students across the UI campus should take advantage of the unique opportunities Vandal Networking Night provides.
“Take advantage of it while you can,” Mangiantini said. “This is the only time in your life when employers will come to you for a job.”
Mary Phipps can be contacted at [email protected]