by Ameera N. Buchanan
Tennessee State University’s Career Development Center hosted its annual Spring Career Fair for all majors recently, providing students with opportunities to secure internships and employment.
The event, themed ‘Spring Into Your Career Success,’ encouraged students to approach recruiters with energy and confidence. Held at TSU’s Gentry Complex Center, the fair featured over 100 companies, offering students an array of opportunities to network, learn, and potentially secure internships or job placements. Several students even participated in on-the-spot interviews with prospective employers.
Ashtyn McLucas, a junior majoring in mass communications, said he valued the variety of educational programs and professional development opportunities presented at the fair.
“They [employers] had educational programs that help you in your field, as well as programs that place you in internships,” McLucas said. “It was encouraging to see recruiters genuinely interested in helping students prepare for their careers.”
While McLucas expressed his excitement for the recruiters and their efforts, Elijah Bryant, a TSU junior majoring in business information systems, said the networking opportunities provided by the event. Bryant, who has attended career fairs at TSU in the past, stated that this is an event he looks forward to every year for internship opportunities.
“I really appreciate the TSU Career Development Center and everything that they do for us as students,” Bryant said.
The Career Development Center hosted workshops and resume reviews leading up to the event to ensure students were well-prepared and confident.
Among the career fair recruiters was Jada Carter, a recent TSU graduate who now works for Bank of America. Returning to her alma mater in her role as an employer, Carter saw familiar faces and spoke about the bank’s commitment to connecting with TSU students. “Bank of America has a long-standing partnership with TSU, and we’re always looking to bring more talent on board,” she said, encouraging students to apply early.
Sydney Head, a Tuskegee University alumna, represented her employer, BWX Technologies, at the fair. The company provides nuclear components, fuel, and services to the U.S. government and commercial customers.
As a fellow HBCU graduate, Head expressed her passion for outreach and supporting HBCU students. “Coming back to an HBCU allows me to bridge the gap and create opportunities for students,” she said. “I am able to offer advice and tips that I would have appreciated when I was a student.”
Head emphasized the importance of preparation in helping students stand out. “Your resume and interview responses help differentiate you from other candidates,” she said, urging students to develop both with their unique strengths in mind.
The TSU Career Development Center continues to prioritize student success by hosting events that connect students with potential employers. With strong alumni support and participation from various companies, the annual Spring Career Fair remains a pivotal opportunity for students to take the next steps toward their professional goal.
