Hundreds of students participate in Job and Internship Expo

The Berry Career Institute’s first in-person Job and Internship Expo since 2020 was a big success for Cornell College students and visiting business partners. 

On Feb. 22 the Smith Dining Room filled with chatter as students talked with employers and college representatives about internships, careers, and future opportunities. 

“While there are certainly up-sides to virtual events, the value of face-to-face conversations is felt in situations like this where natural connections can be made as easy as walking up to an employer and introducing yourself,” said Danielle Linkenmeyer, associate director of operations and career coaching of the Berry Career Institute. “Students are craving in-person interactions, and I feel our numbers reflect that.” 

By the end of the event, 240 students participated, and several students won prizes like AirPods, an iPad, and a Keurig. 

“All students were welcomed and encouraged to come–no matter what stage they are in throughout their job or internship search process,” Linkenmeyer said. “Even if our students didn’t identify with any of the attending employers it was an opportunity for them to attend, network, and gain that experience of having those in-person conversations.” 

The Berry Career Institute decided which employers to invite based on its commitment to appeal to a broad range of students’ professional and academic interests.

“For example, we wanted financial services companies, healthcare organizations, social service agencies, postgraduate service organizations, a few arts and media companies, a school district, a museum, etc,” said Jason Napoli, director of employer relations and career coaching for the Berry Career Institute. “The goal is to have a little of something for everybody and give students the opportunity to follow their interests and also explore new ones.”

While the icy weather on Feb. 22 prevented some employers from attending, the Cedar Rapids Community School District, Shelter House, CRST, and Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group were among the businesses and organizations represented at the event.

In addition to holding this large Job and Internship Expo every spring, the Berry Career Institute also invites employers to connect with students at other times throughout the year. For the folks who are part of these efforts, there’s nothing like watching students taking advantage of opportunities and exploring their passions.

“Seeing students interact with each employer was really gratifying,” Linkenmeyer said. “Knowing we were able to deliver an opportunity that allows them to grow their networking skills and find opportunities that allow them to grow professionally was amazing.”

If you have questions about internship opportunities, need help with your resume, or want some assistance with finding a job, the Berry Career Institute can help. Feel free to reach out to the team and schedule an appointment.