HSJC Career Fair sets students up for success by starting conversations

Resumes in hand and confidence on display, students packed the Trojan Center ready to make an impression last Wednesday. The Hall School of Journalism and Communication Career Fair is not just about finding a job, it’s about starting conversations that could lead students to lifelong careers. 

The event brought students together across all classification levels, offering them a chance to connect directly with industry professionals. Faculty members encouraged attendance to build confidence and gain real-world experience in professional settings. 

“We send students all the way from freshman to the senior level to these things,” said Dr. Hanna Cooper, lecturer in the Hall School of Journalism and Communication. “Really, the goal here is to put your best foot forward and get you in front of some of these people that could later be your employers, so come with name cards, be confident, because you’ve been doing the work for so long at this point.  

“ It’s just an opportunity for you to showcase the skills you already have.” 

From broadcast newsrooms to public service organizations, employers including WSFA 12 News, WDHN, the Alabama Department of Transportation, WAFF 48 and the Fuller Center for Housing attended in search of emerging talent. Representatives spent the day meeting students, answering questions and identifying potential candidates for internships and future positions. 

For many students, the fair provided valuable face-to-face interaction that cannot be replicated online. These brief conversations often serve as the first step toward building professional relationships. 

“Networking can help them land a job,” said Vrund Shah, an administrative assistant for Troy University Career Services. “Almost 80% of the jobs that are currently filled are through networking and insider references.” 

Organizers emphasized that preparation and professionalism can make a lasting impression. Students were encouraged to research companies beforehand and follow up with recruiters after the event. 

“I think this is a great opportunity to network, both for the companies that are here as well as the students,” said Sally Pitts, news director at WSFA 12. “For WSFA, this is a chance for us to meet the students Troy University currently has.  

“We have so many Troy graduates at WSFA, and we know that the Hall School of Journalism and Communication is an excellent program.” 

In a competitive job market, moments like these can make all the difference – where one conversation today could become a career tomorrow.