MSU hosts opportunities for students to explore internships and careers

Last Tuesday and Wednesday, students gathered at two separate networking events to meet employers from all over Montana. Here, Bobcats could inquire about internships, make connections and learn more about the networking and job application process.

On Tuesday evening, the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship (JJCBE) hosted the Jabs Networking Night, and on Wednesday, the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse held the Fall Career Fair. These events provided opportunities for students to connect with employers offering internships, entry-level jobs and career insight, according to MSU’s website.

There were 39 employers at the Jabs Networking Night and over 100 employers at the career fair, representing a variety of industries including construction, engineering, nursing and education. Several hundred students attended these events. “It’s almost overwhelming,” said business major Sean Leaming. “It’s packed.”

Representatives at both events were there primarily to recruit students. “We’re here looking for interns and full-time people to work next summer,” said Loren Blossom, chief estimator at Montana Materials and Construction, a concrete supplier based out of Anaconda. He said the company is looking for enthusiastic individuals who are willing to work.

Many of the employers at the events offered major-specific internships. “We’re looking for civil engineering or mechanical engineering degrees,” said Patrick Rockwell, a representative for Engineering Operations LLC, a Manhattan-based civil engineering firm.

Other employers were looking to recruit anyone interested in the fields they were representing. “We are looking for all types of majors, anyone with an interest in healthcare,” said Bozeman Health representative Rachael Meadows. “We have a bunch of different needs, especially for people who want to stay in the community.”

The state of Montana also had tables advertising internships at both events. Each of these positions has its own qualifications, according to Montana government internship representative Jeff Plum. “Anyone that is considering an internship with the state of Montana, get out there,” he said. 

Plum also spoke about additional resources for interested students. “Take a look at the website for the individual agencies, see the type of work that interests you,” he said. “From there, you can narrow down potential opportunities to gain what you need to gain in your college curriculum.”

According to Bracken Center Director Toby Blake, while many employers look for specific majors to recruit, they also select for certain skills. “Strong communication, curiosity, initiative and professionalism stand out most,” he said.

“It’s never too early to start building your network and gaining experience for your resume,” Blake said. “The more you engage with your peers, mentors, alumni and faculty, the more confident and prepared you’ll become.

To get connected, schedule a meeting or learn more about internship opportunities or networking, visit the Bracken Center’s website or in person at its office in the JJCBE.

To schedule a meeting with an advisor, learn more about student employment or access Student Success resources, visit the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success’s website or visit its office in the Strand Union Building.