Career Jam connects students to alumni and employers

There was a palpable energy in the room.

Parents, alumni and employers networking one-on-one with current students. Students — in their business attire with freshly printed resumes — excited by job and internship opportunities. Everyone gathered to help nearly 200 Skidmore students add a little color to their picture of life after college.

This is Career Jam, the Career Development Center’s largest on-campus networking event. Held during Celebration Weekend each year, it’s a highly anticipated occasion for career connections and conversations. Often, it’s a moment recent Skidmore alumni point to as the launch pad for their careers.

“It’s great to see such a large community of students, parents, alumni, employers and staff coming together to inspire career-minded Skidmore students,” said Tenzin Tashi ‘20, a dual psychology and management and business major.

Everywhere you were you could hear introductions, laughter and advice. 

The students in the room weren’t just seniors and juniors; first-year students and sophomores were also anxious to get a jump start on career exploration.

“It’s really cool to see so many opportunities in one place and immerse myself in the knowledge of these mentors,” said Kaitlyn Maurais ’22, a first-year student exploring majors.

The room was filled with all majors and backgrounds — from healthcare and business, to education, political science and the arts.

The employers in the room also hailed from a variety of places, including J.P Morgan, Pixar Animation Studios, Nordstrom Inc., the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, the U.S. Forest Service, the Peace Corps and dozens of others.

View the complete Career Jam directory

The students I spoke with considered the day a resounding success. 

“I learned about other medical specialties that I didn’t know of but am now interested in,” said Laura Swenson ’19, a biochemistry major.

“Today was very useful. I see it being a professional development platform from which we can flourish,” said Talha Bin Fahim ’21, a management and business major. 

As I think back on the event, I can’t help but capture it in a single word: captivating. And it’s all thanks to our Career Development Center working tirelessly to build connections and bring incredible opportunities directly to us, Skidmore students.