By Ryan DeJarnatt

The University of Alaska Southeast’s Juneau campus hosted 56 employers from across the state on Wednesday, giving an estimated 125 students a chance to network and establish connections with a wide variety of employment opportunities.

When asked why they chose to attend this year’s Career Fair, most students said that they were seeking summer employment positions in Juneau. There was a repeated interest in environmental and conservation-based internships and positions, leaving several students disappointed at the lack of representation from companies in those fields at the Fair. Two students jovially stated that they came to the fair to acquire the free items and treats provided by the companies present, but had little interest in landing positions with them.

UAS students who plan to return home during the summer, were disappointed to learn that many employers were only seeking temporary summer positions.

Several employers called the event a huge success in recruiting as well as networking with different people from around the community. More than two-dozen students stopped by the Bartlett Regional Hospital table to ask about internships and jobs in healthcare as well as healthcare partnerships with other colleges across the U.S. 

First Bank was one of many finance institutions that attended the event, catering toward students in but not limited to: business administration, accounting, sociology, and human resources. Juneau Branch V.P. and Commercial Loan Officer Tyler Davis said that he was happy with the number of students who inquired about summer and part-time jobs or internships, or were just exploring job options within banking.

UAS students seeking internships would also be glad to hear about Hecla Greens Creek, who have positions for engagement, community relations, environmental science, and diesel. They said it was well worth coming to Career Fair, as they secure at least one summer internship every year.

Career Fair is put on annually by UAS Career Services. C.S. Manager, Stori Oates expressed that the event is well worth doing every year as they get new and returning employers alike, ranging from law firms, tourism, Juneau school district, nonprofits, and even several UAS campus jobs. “Even if students are not looking for a job, it’s always good to know what’s happening in Juneau,” Oates said. While this was the first Career Fair she has organized at UAS, she expressed gratitude at the team work involved in planning and orchestrating the event.