In preparation for the career fair, Ferris students were allowed to ask questions about their resumes on Sept. 19.
This event, hosted by the American Marketing Association, featured a guest speaker, and faculty who reviewed and edited resumes. Career advice was given, as well as ways you can network.
Vice President of Professional Development for Ferris AMA Madelyn Oly, a senior majoring in business administration with a minor in sales, organized the event.
Oly gave background on the event and the significance the date of the event holds as the career fairs are happening next week.
“This event is a resume workshop, and we created it this week to give students the opportunity to enhance their resumes before the career fair next week,” Oly said. “It’s incredibly important for all students to get involved, and it offers a great chance to engage with faculty and professors.”
Oly also stressed the importance of having a solid resume for all majors.
“Resumes are important for everyone, whether you’re a marketing major or studying business administration with a minor in Sales like me,” Oly said. “Everyone needs a resume; it’s how you market yourself. This workshop is essential for ensuring everyone can participate.”
The Ferris AMA partnered with the College of Business to put on the resume workshop.
“We partnered with the College of Business for this event in hopes of attracting a larger turnout, and we were happy to see a great number of attendees. It’s a good way for everyone to get involved,” Oly said.
Marketing senior and President of the Ferris AMA Ivabelle Wilhelm shared her thoughts on the importance of such events.
“Professional development events outside the classroom are crucial because they are more engaging and fun,” Wilhelm said. “Additionally, they provide a chance to interact with real professionals. While many of our teachers have industry experience, business is always evolving, so it’s beneficial to hear from those currently in the field and to build real-world connections.”
Wilhelm has found that going to the event multiple times can be helpful.
“This is my third time attending this workshop, and each time I refine my resume,” Wilhelm said. “The biggest takeaway for me this time was realizing my resume lacks quantifiable achievements. I need to rewrite that section to better demonstrate my capabilities to potential employers.”
District Marketing Manager for Federated Insurance and guest speaker Lance Eltringham spoke about why attending professional events such as the resume workshop is important for students.
“Having business professionals speak directly to students about market trends provides valuable insights into what employers are seeking,” Eltringham said. “This allows students to tailor their resumes and interview responses to align with current expectations.”
Connection is a big part of what Eltringham believes is helpful when searching for a job.
“Network as much as possible. Let people know you’re looking for a job—professors, career services, friends and family,” Eltringham said. “Talk to as many individuals as you can about your career goals; your network will assist you in finding opportunities.”
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining an up-to-date resume, stating that having an organized resume can help increase the chances of being hired.
The workshop also featured valuable advice on how to approach employers at the upcoming career fair, as well as how to market yourself. Eltringham emphasized the importance of attending the career fair.
“I highly advocate for attending career fairs,” Eltringham said. “They allow you to network with businesses that you might not initially consider. Bring multiple copies of your resume, engage with as many employers as possible, exchange business cards and send follow-up emails to thank them for their time. This will help you stand out from other candidates.”
There are more upcoming professional events if you cannot make it to the resume workshop.
“The American Marketing Association collaborates monthly with four other registered student organizations in the College of Business to host major events. For instance, next month we have Luke Wyckoff, one of the most successful entrepreneurs we’ve had as Ferris alumni, who has started several companies,” Wilhelm said. “He will discuss personal branding and how to effectively use LinkedIn to connect with alumni and expand our networks. I know a fellow student who used this advice to secure her job and real estate license.”
The career fair will be held Sept. 26 at the Recreation Center, for a full list of employers who will be attending, visit Ferris360.