The Oakland University Winter Career Fair brought together students and employers for a day focused on professional growth and future opportunities. Attendees were offered free headshots and the chance to explore internships and full-time positions, particularly appealing to students approaching graduation.
The event created an environment where students could engage directly with recruiters, practice networking, ask about company culture, and learn what skills employers value. Beyond simply submitting resumes, students gained practical experience in presenting themselves professionally and navigating the dynamics of real-world career environments.
A wide range of employers attended, representing industries including healthcare, financial services, engineering, government, construction, and more. This diversity allowed students from various majors to explore multiple career paths, compare industries, and understand where their skills could be most in demand. Many students reported that this exposure helped them clarify their professional goals and identify opportunities they had not previously considered.
Michigan State University Federal Credit Union was represented by Talent Acquisition Specialist Sam Gutzki, who emphasized that the organization prioritizes values and skills over specific academic majors. “We have branch networks that we can hire people into, and that’s a big chunk of our jobs,” Gutzki said. “Employees often start in branch roles and grow into back-office positions over time. We’re really more about your skill set and your values than your degree.”
Gutzki also noted that many entry-level roles require only a high school diploma, with adaptability and a willingness to learn taking priority over prior experience. “We look for key skills first and then teach the rest,” she said, highlighting the credit union’s values-based approach to hiring. While some internships may require additional experience, many are open to students early in their academic careers.
Sophomore sisters Anusha and Opal Tiwari attended the fair in search of early career opportunities. “I’m looking for an internship. I’m a sophomore, so I’m hoping to find one for the first semester next year,” said Anusha, a mechatronics and robotics engineering major.
Opal Tiwari focused on making a strong first impression with recruiters. “I printed resumes to give to all the companies I’m interested in,” she said, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interactions. Both sisters described the fair as a valuable opportunity to build confidence, practice professional communication, and learn how to present themselves effectively in a career setting.
Preparation for the event was supported by the Career and Life Design Center. Laura Kroger, a career and life design coach, works closely with students in engineering and computer science programs to help them succeed at career fairs. “I go into the School of Engineering and Computer Science and visit classes like BGR 2400 and CSI 2999 to prepare students for the career fair,” Kroger said. “Early preparation helps students navigate these events with clarity and confidence.”
By connecting students with employers who value skills, adaptability, and professional growth, the Oakland University Winter Career Fair gave participants the chance to engage directly with recruiters, ask questions, and make lasting impressions beyond submitting resumes. The fair empowered students to explore career paths, build confidence, and develop the skills and experience needed to succeed in competitive industries after graduation.
