SUNY Maritime College Annual Report 2020-2021

MICHELLE REINA Director of Career Planning and Development I n a year where meeting with potential recruiters face- to-face at a Career Fair was not an option, Michelle Reina took to the virtual sphere to engage students and connect them to potential employers. Students participated in many different virtual workshops and employers conducted their presentations by Zoom, which allowed for student participation and dialogue albeit digitally. “All of our events were held virtually, and recruiters used this platform successfully to present their employment opportunities to students.” In total, almost 50 recruitment and career-related virtual events took place throughout the academic year. Reina noted that student participation was as consistent throughout the academic year as in past years, and students were eager to obtain career and employment information. The annual Career Development Week, which usually takes place in the beginning of March, also transitioned to a virtual event with an impressive student turnout. As part of the week’s events, a session was offered on how to job search and network during a pandemic. This type of information was critical to students and the response was overwhelmingly positive. “Since we were unable to hold an in-person Career Fair, these virtual presentations were the best way for employers to meet our students.” In reflecting on what could have been done differently in terms of career planning and development, Reina indicated, “I don’t believe I would have done anything differently. This past year has showed that we were able to bring students together with employers and provide networking opportunities virtually.” She also found that more alumni participated in and conducted virtual presentations as the need to travel to the campus was not necessary. “Moving forward, we will continue to offer virtual options to students.”

FALL EMPLOYER RECRUITING SEASON Virtual Employer Presentations will be taking place from October 5th till November 23rd

This past year has showed that we were able to bring students together with employers and provide networking opportunities virtually. Moving forward, we will continue to offer virtual options to students.

In lieu of Fall Career Fair

OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS AND ALL MAJORS

CHECK ON PORTHOLE AND WITH CAREER SERVICES FOR LINKS AND SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING PRESENTATIONS

CAREERSERVICES @ SUNYMARITIME . EDU

Employers Meet Students Virtually in Lieu of Career Fair

8

Annual Report 2020-2021