This semester, I had the opportunity to work on and attend the 2026 Nichols College Career and Internship Fair (CIF). Trying to take my first step after graduation is one of the most frightening things I have to face so far, and I know I am not alone in this fear. That fear is the reason that CIF is one of the most beneficial experiences on campus.
The CIF prepares students for real-world employer interactions. Students are dressed professionally, resumes in hand, and business cards in tow. At Nichols, events like this aren’t overwhelming; we are prepared for this. Employers that attend are chosen with intention and have a personal connection to the college or its students. Because of this, I was able to have real conversations with employers who wanted to truly get to know me as opposed to quick, surface level interactions that don’t paint the full picture of myself or the organization.
As a student interested in communications, customer service and marketing, I focused my sights on companies like Windsor Property Management, or MB Corporation. By learning more about these companies, their missions, their day-to-day activities and more, I was able to begin my search in specific industries. For example, I learned that I do not want to do marketing for an insurance or accounting firm, however property management sales and marketing in a real estate firm sounds very appealing to me. One of my greatest takeaways was that recruiters care just as much about personality, communication skills and willingness to learn as they do about major or GPA. The Fair reinforced how important it is to be able to clearly articulate your experiences, whether that’s leadership roles, team involvement, or campus jobs, and connect them to real-world value.
Updating my resume, practicing my introduction and learning about companies beforehand made a huge difference in my confidence and highlighted how much preparation matters. Instead of feeling ill-prepared and nervous, I felt ready to answer questions and highlight my strengths. Because of my prep, conversations felt more like a networking opportunity than an interview.
I loved seeing how supportive the Nichols Community really is. Even President Bill Pieczynski was in attendance to support his students in their endeavors. Faculty and staff were there to encourage students and introduce them to recruiters they had connections with. The Career and Professional Development Center’s own Liz Horgan even introduced me to the recruiters at Windsor Property Management, which led to some eye-opening changes in my desired career path.
Overall, the Career & Internship Fair wasn’t just about handing out resumes. It was about building connections, practicing professionalism, and taking tangible steps toward my future. If there’s one piece of advice, I’d give to any student considering attending next year, it’s simple: go. Even if you’re unsure about your path, the experience alone is worth it. Events like this make me excited about what’s ahead, and grateful to be part of a community that prioritizes helping students turn ambition into opportunity.
