Record-Setting Career EXPO Spotlights Demand for Robinson Students

Every September, Robinson’s Career Advancement Center (CAC) hosts the Accounting, Audit, Advisory & Tax (AAAT) Showcase and Career EXPO, enabling students to network with employers looking for dynamic and prepared talent. This year drew record numbers; nearly 150 businesses engaged face-to-face with approximately 1,200 potential recruits vying for full-time jobs and internships. While the AAAT is geared toward accounting students pursuing niche careers, the Career EXPO is open to students interested in a wide swath of business fields.

“We were glad to participate and interact with students with a variety of backgrounds and focus areas,” said Tony Burdett, global university relations leader of financial software giant NCR Voyix. “The CAC does a great job preparing students for impactful engagement with companies. They are able to speak to their experience both inside and outside the classroom. We like to collaborate with Robinson students in a variety of settings and contribute to their growth.”

In the weeks leading up to the career fair, students have professional headshots taken, hone their resumes, review the professional dress code, and perfect their elevator pitches. CAC staff provide on-the-fly coaching to students at the event as well.

“The biggest benefit for me was networking with and selling myself to several top firms,” said Max Graves, a junior risk management and insurance major who also serves as a student assistant for the CAC. “Because of my preparation through the CAC, I secured an internship with one of the companies that attended the career fair.”

By November, career fair attendees start receiving offers for summer internships and full-time roles. While the CAC recognizes student achievements throughout the year, the biggest celebration occurs at the end of the year. Called Signing Day, the gala provides an avenue for students to mingle with classmates and sponsoring employers.

In addition to providing full-scale job training and professional experiences to students year-round, the CAC contributes to curriculum planning for three freshman-level courses. The CAC supports students through their entire academic journey.

“Employers tell us our students are dynamic and resilient, with more real-world experience and grit than talent from other schools,” said Denise Holmes, the undergraduate CAC’s senior director. “Through partnerships with the CAC, employers have unique opportunities to build relationships with our students.”