Sacramento State held its very first student-athlete career fair on Monday night in the University Union Ballroom that drew the attention of more than 125 students. Representatives from 20 different companies and agencies were present to converse, provide information and answer questions. “You don’t know where life is going to lead you, so be open-minded to all of the companies here tonight,” said Athletic Director Dr. Terry Wanless to those who attended. “Life is a journey and tonight is the start of that journey.” The event started with a panel discussion about job interviews. The panel, which included representatives from the Career Center, gave students tips about what to do during the interviewing process. “Every interview you get is a great opportunity for you,” Wanless said.

Mark McGushin, coordinator of Life Skills and Student-Athlete Development, said he was pleased with the turnout of the career fair.

“The early feedback we’ve received has been very positive,” he said. “Representatives from the Career Center said that this has been better than some of the other career fairs they’ve had on campus.” Students who attended the career fair thought it was very beneficial. “This is the first time they’ve had anything like this and it has helped a lot,” said Lori Vaught, senior interior design major. “The regular career fairs are really big and it’s nice for these companies to come out and speak to us in a more intimate setting.”

Senior criminal justice major Hava McCarter also had a positive experience. “I sort of had an idea of what I was looking for before I came in here, but I thought that it was helpful overall,” McCarter said. Athletic officials were pleased with the success of the fair and hope to hold similar events in the future. “It’s been very exciting,” Wanless said. “It’s important for student-athletes to get a firsthand experience talking to potential employers about continuing their educational experience.”

Michael Calvillo can be reached at [email protected].