For some students, a career fair is about finding a job. For others, it is a chance to discover jobs they did not know existed.

Missouri State University students explored both possibilities on Sept. 23 at the Darr College of Agriculture Career Fair. It took place at the Darr Agricultural Center.

Twenty-two employers represented a variety of industries.

Discovering what’s out there

Senior animal science major Madison Dent attended the event hoping to find a full-time position.

She developed an interest in food inspection while working at a butcher shop in high school. She later interned with American Food Groups in Wisconsin as part of the inspection staff.

Those experiences led her to explore possible jobs with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Since I already follow them on LinkedIn and know people who work there, I plan to apply for a job with them soon,” Dent said.

Turning interests into careers

Senior wildlife conservation major Fisher Stephans arrived with another career path in mind.

He hopes to work in environmental compliance and help organizations follow environmental laws and regulations.

He has already gained experience in several settings, including CoxHealth and Missouri State. He helped professors conduct bird research and set up cameras for mammal monitoring.

At the fair, Stephans spoke with representatives from George’s, Inc, MFA Incorporated and USDA. The conversations showed him that opportunities matching his interests are available.

He plans to continue one of those conversations by connecting with Jacob Hall on LinkedIn. Hall is a recruitment specialist with MFA.

“I learned so much more about the companies by talking to their representatives,” Stephans said.

Communication goes beyond the résumé

Employers were not only looking for experience; they were paying attention to how students communicated.

Hall has attended 24 career fairs while recruiting for MFA. He came to Missouri State seeking candidates for managerial roles.

“Their ability to communicate is more important than skills and experience,” he said.

According to him, Missouri State students stand out for their hands-on experience. Agriculture majors can gain experience at facilities like Journagan Ranch, Kindrick Family Farm and the Mountain Grove vineyards.

Melissa Gibson, volunteer/intern program manager at Wonders of Wildlife, noticed students’ preparation. They came ready to ask questions and had researched the organization.

“You get a better first impression of who people are when you meet face-to-face. Their personalities shine through,” she said.

Finding the right fit

Not every student walks into a career fair knowing exactly what they want to do.

Dane Zimmerman, early careers talent acquisition manager at George’s, Inc., encouraged students to explore careers through internships.

“Be open, be willing to do something you’re not sure about,” he said.

Marti Davis, recruiting and human resources specialist at S&H Farm Supply Inc., offered similar advice. She encouraged students to identify their strengths and consider what they want from a career.

For agriculture students deciding what comes next, the fair offered a place to start.

Learn more about Darr College of Agriculture