More than 70 employers and nearly 300 students filled the gymnasium at Worcester State University on April 15th for the institution’s largest career fair to date, creating a high-energy environment focused on opportunity, connection, and career readiness.
Hosted by the university’s Career Development Center, the event brought together organizations from a wide range of industries, giving students the chance to explore career paths, build professional networks, and engage directly with recruiters. In addition to employer booths, students could take advantage of free professional headshots and a Coaching Corner offering last-minute guidance on how to make the most of their time at the fair.
“The Career Development Center team delivered an outstanding event, and I couldn’t be more proud of the effort that went into making this our largest career fair to date,” said Dannie Lacks, director of the Career Development Center. “We are grateful to our employer partners for their continued support and commitment to our students. Nearly 300 students showed up prepared and ready to engage, which made the energy in the room incredible. Our Coaching Corner stayed busy with students getting last-minute tips on how to successfully navigate the fair, and many took advantage of the free professional headshots to strengthen their personal brand.”
Employers echoed that enthusiasm, noting the strong level of student engagement throughout the event.
“It’s exciting to see students’ enthusiasm and how driven they are to tell their stories and find a workplace that feels like the right fit,” said Nick Moore of Rockland Trust, one of the employers tabling at the event.
For alumni recruiters, the fair also offered a chance to give back and connect with current students navigating the same path they once did.
“As a Worcester State graduate, it’s exciting to be back on campus and connect with students who are in the same position I was just a few years ago,” said Mike Bost of Open Sky Community Services. “I enjoy when students come up to ask questions—it gives me the chance to share not only what it’s like to work at Open Sky, but also offer guidance on the job search and help them take their next steps into the workforce.”
Students described the event as both informative and empowering, especially for those still exploring their career interests.
“I’m excited to see what’s out there, just because I still don’t really know what I want to do,” said Sarah Treska ’27, a biology major. “It’s kind of cool to see what’s out there, and the options I have with my degree. I got to speak with companies like Massachusetts Life Sciences Center and Charles River Laboratories.”
Treska, who transferred to Worcester State this year, credited the Career Development Center with helping her secure an upcoming internship. “I already have an internship because I went to the Career Services Center and they helped me with my resume, cover letter, and interview prep,” she said. “With the internship coming up, I feel a lot more confident knowing I’ll have that real-life experience.”
For others, the value of the fair was in the accessibility it provided.
“Simply having all these employers on campus is a big first step in our career building,” said Patrick Harvey ’27, a business administration major with a pre-law minor. “Otherwise, each one of these conversations is an application process on Handshake or LinkedIn. Being able to just bounce around, talk in person, and give your contact information out—even if you’re not sure what you want to do—is great.”
Harvey also highlighted the benefits of early access through the center’s programming. “The Career Development Center did a resume workshop with me. I got my VIP status for the fair today and I was able to come in early and have more one-on-one time with these employers. There’s not much more you could ask for.”
Lacks noted that both employers and students walked away impressed with the energy and level of engagement at the fair. “Employers shared how prepared and motivated Worcester State students were, while students expressed excitement about the range of opportunities and meaningful conversations they were able to have,” said Lacks. “The overall response from both groups has been incredibly positive, and it’s clear the event made a strong impact.”
With record-breaking participation, Worcester State’s career fair continues to serve as a vital stepping stone for students as they build confidence, expand their networks, and take the next steps toward their future careers. “Events like this are so important because they give students the chance to make real connections and start envisioning what comes next,” Lacks added. “It’s about helping them take those first meaningful steps from college into their professional lives.”