As Methodist University students prepare to become future leaders in business, health, art, humanities, sciences, and more, many of them took the opportunity to network with employers in the greater Fayetteville area.

On Wednesday, Feb. 21,  Methodist University hosted “Spring Connections Day” – bringing hundreds of students and more than 40 businesses together for an on-campus career fair and networking event at Nimocks Fitness Center. NC Works and the Mid-Carolina Regional Council partnered with MU in organizing the event.

“Methodist University’s Spring Connections Day gives students the opportunity to network with local and state employers who are seeking new talent for their organizations,” said Dr. Taylor Vann, MU’s director of academic and career advising in a press release. “Events like this are important because they give students a chance to explore a variety of career pathways, learn about internship and job opportunities, and practice selling themselves to hiring managers.”

Students had an opportunity to dress professionally, bring their resumes, and meet with employers about internship and full-time employment opportunities in the area.

Spring Connections Day featured a variety of students, including freshman who wanted to network and learn more about various careers, to upperclassmen who were focused on finding the right fit for them post-graduation.

“My end goal is to work in human resources management,” said Azelia Ellis, a junior from Fayetteville majoring in Management in a  press release. “Even though I don’t have a lot on my resume at the moment, this is a great opportunity for me to practice my interview skills and get to know people. I’m getting lots of tips.”

Among the dozens of employers in attendance at the event were Cape Fear Valley Health, City of Fayetteville, Fayetteville Police Department, Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, Fayetteville Woodpeckers, NCDOT, and Beasley Media Group.

“We have a great partnership with Methodist University and wanted to show our support,” said Devante Monds, the campus recruitment lead at Cape Fear Valley Health in a press release.. “We’re here to talk to students about career and internship opportunities, especially in the areas of nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and even business.”

This marks the second straight year that Methodist University has hosted the event and is one of the many career advising opportunities provided by the University’s One Stop. The on-campus center provides students assistance with academic support, student access and accommodation services, testing, academic advising, career advising and internships, class registration, and student employment.