SNR hosted its sixth annual Career Information Fair on Wednesday, January 30. Twenty-five groups from both the public and private sector chatted with students about jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities available to students with a background in natural resources.
“I think it’s a good opportunity for us to talk to people from the different groups,” said Grace Noecker, a junior in the fisheries and wildlife program. “This sort of thing helps us make connections and talk to people about what’s available.”
Representatives from federal, state, and local organizations attended the fair.
“There were a lot more private businesses here this year,” said Tony Lownds, an environmental studies and fisheries and wildlife double major. A senior, Lownds attended last year’s career fair, after which he followed up with the National Forest Service and was able to land a summer job. “It was nice to meet them at the career fair,” Lownds said.
“Employers said that the students were prepared, professional, and represented a variety of backgrounds,” said Sara Winn, undergraduate advising coordinator at the SNR and organizer of the day’s fair. “It was wonderful to have freshmen through graduate students and alumni attend the career information day.”
Students looking for jobs as well as students interested in keeping up to date with the natural resources field commented on the benefits of attending such an event. “I have a job,” said fisheries and wildlife senior Kailee Brown. “But it’s nice to know your options. You try to get jobs in what you’re interested in, so it’s always nice to know the next step.”
“Internships are a great way to prepare for the field,” said presenter Jonathan Mohr, environmental scientist from EA Engineering, Science, and Technology, Inc. Alum of the environmental studies program, Mohr pointed to his own internship experiences as a contributing factor to his placement at EA. “It’s always great to come back to UNL to share what we’ve learned.”
Several students discussed other tips they received at the event. “Get to know your professors,” Brown said. “They know the field and people in the field. They’re great resources for us.”
Nick Kleinschmit, a senior in fisheries and wildlife, agreed. “And keep an open mind about leaving Nebraska. Sometimes that’s necessary.”
After attending the fair, Tony Nguy-Robertson, PhD candidate in natural resources, also pointed to the value of an open mind. “I was able to talk with several industry and governmental groups about potential jobs and post-doc opportunities,” said Nguy-Robertson. “My advice to graduate students is to be open in your career search. You may not realize exactly what you want to be doing in 10 years. Examining multiple job paths will lead you to find a career you love.”
Winn wanted the career fair to be a place for students to get connected. “Many students told me that the event was helpful because they were able to learn about different potential employers and network with professionals in their field,” said Winn. “One student was so happy because she walked away with a summer internship.”
Winn's final thought: “I am excited for next year.”