The Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance hosted an Internship Fair on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance Event Center in order to allow students from local colleges to network with local organizations.
Around 70 students attended the fair to network and search for internships and potential jobs for the future. Students came from Liberty University, Randolph College, University of Lynchburg and Virginia Tech.
“The main goal of this event is to connect college students with internship opportunities, and on the other hand, connect employers with interns,” Tori Gilmartin, director of talent and workforce development, said.
The night started with a welcome and introduction followed by social time to begin networking. There were volunteers at the event to help students work on their pitches and get comfortable after the introduction. Also, there was a photographer at the event taking headshots for students to include on their LinkedIn profiles.
Photo by Kelley Atkinson
From 5:15-6:45 p.m., students networked and connected with employers. Representatives from marketing, health care, IT, professional services, finances and non-profit industries attended.
“Employers can register through our system, and it is a free registration. … Once they register, the Region 2 team will follow up with a welcome packet and next steps,” Gilmartin said.
In all, 35 employers participated in the event including 434 Marketing, The Academy Center of the Arts, First National Bank and Foster Fuels.
“I had a wonderful night getting to know employers and their companies. I learned I have a lot of opportunities within my major. I am looking forward to what the future holds,” Luke Chapman, a senior, said.
Students interacted throughout the event with employers and pitched their resumes to hiring managers. They got to make a lasting impression and express their enthusiasm for potential job opportunities.
“I enjoyed the event, and it gave me a chance to get my name out there. I got to know employers personally and understand their company’s mission,” senior Abby Johnson said.
“My favorite part about putting this event together is that students know there is a platform to help them network and get jobs. Lynchburg is a great area, and this event helps students learn of opportunities,” Gilmartin said.
For more information on the Lynchburg Business Alliance, visit www.lynchburgregion.org.
Scotford is a news reporter for the Liberty Champion