COLA Expo | Photo by Monica Brutto | The Wright State Guardian
Wright State University’s liberal arts Internship Expo featured local employers and internship opportunities for students seeking career development and post-graduation jobs.
Background information
On March 28 from 2 to 5 p.m., Wright State University College of Liberal Arts held its fourth annual Internship Expo, which included over 30 companies and organizations.
Wayne Stark, the COLA director of workforce development and leader of the expo, has been hosting the expo for all four years now.
“[I] enjoy it every year,” Stark commented.
Benefits of internships
Stark said that the event is a way to support providers while also being student-focused. Stark explained what students can get out of the event.
“[Students can expect] the opportunity to meet potential employers and new opportunities. Everyone is offering something,” Stark said.
According to Stark, it is beneficial for students to get internships while in college to bolster students’ experience, giving a future advantage of such experience.
“Employers like that when hiring for full-time jobs,” Stark said.
Robin Heise, records management of Greene County Public Records, had a booth out at the event and encouraged students to get internships.
“[Internships] are a good opportunity for [students] to get hands-on experience in the field. It’s also a great way to network,” Heise said.
Heise also started out with Greene County as an intern, then the county hired Heise, who has worked there full-time ever since. Heise also provided a benefit of working for Greene County specifically.
“You get the hands-on opportunity with local government,” Heise said.
Allie Edmonds, public outreach coordinator for Greene County, explained that internships can lead students to unknown paths and possibilities in different career fields.
Katherine Martin, an undergraduate psychology student, came to look at specific booths related to personal fields and interests.
“[I came to] make more connections,” Martin said.
Carysn Thomas, an undergraduate sports science major, echoed similar sentiments and explained that it is beneficial to get an internship before graduating.
Moving forward
Stark encouraged students to try different career options, network and connect with new people. Stark commented on the nature of the expo.
“[The expo] exemplifies team spirit, which is what WSU is all about. We come together and make a team environment,” Stark said.
For more information about internship opportunities, visit the WSU career and academic advising website about internships and co-ops.
