Navigating Career Opportunities at the College of Natural Resources Spring Networking Night
February 20, 2024
In a bid to foster meaningful connections between students and potential employers, the College of Natural Resources hosted its much-anticipated spring networking night on February 6th at the Best Western Inn. The event, spanning from 5:30 to 7:30, offered a unique platform for students to engage with industry professionals and fellow peers in a relaxed setting.
Among the attendees was Zach Johnson, a student with specific goals in mind for the evening. When asked about his objectives, he expressed a desire to establish a presence among employers, make a positive impression, and ideally secure a job or potential interview opportunities.
During the night, Zach engaged with several organizations, including Idaho Department of Lands, Washington Department of Natural Resources, and Northwest Management.
However, it was the Idaho Department of Lands that left a lasting impression on him. The positions they offered, diverse locations available, and the meaningful conversations they shared throughout the evening caught Zach's attention.
Reflecting on the event, Zach shared advice for peers who missed the networking night, emphasizing its low-pressure environment. He highlighted the opportunity to personally connect with organization representatives, gaining valuable insights into potential full- time positions or seasonal work.
Zach commended the organizers for creating a more casual atmosphere, providing a stark contrast to the typically stressful career fair environments. Zach felt less pressure, allowing him to approach tables with confidence and engage in meaningful conversations with potential employers.
In retrospect, Zach believes the event was highly beneficial for him. The absence of the usual career fair stress, combined with the opportunity to interact with organizations in a more relaxed setting, contributed to his comfort and confidence throughout the night.
The College of Natural Resources' spring networking night proved to be a valuable experience for Zach and his peers, paving the way for future career opportunities in the natural resources field.
Article by Makayla Kelly
Published February 2024
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The University of Idaho, home of the Vandals, is Idaho’s land-grant, national research university. From its residential campus in Moscow, U of I serves the state of Idaho through educational centers in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls, nine research and Extension centers, plus Extension offices in 42 counties. Home to more than 12,000 students statewide, U of I is a leader in student-centered learning and excels at interdisciplinary research, service to businesses and communities, and in advancing diversity, citizenship and global outreach. U of I competes in the Big Sky and Western Athletic conferences. Learn more at uidaho.edu.