Students come to college for many reasons, whether it is to get involved in campus social life, further their education, or gain independence from home. However, one of the most important reasons students attend college is to prepare for their future careers.
On Feb. 4, 2026, Virginia State University hosted its annual Career Fair, Black 82’s “Pathways to the Dreams.” The event was open to all VSU students and was designed to expand their knowledge while providing access to career opportunities with some of the top companies in various industries.
Many of the employers in attendance offered internships and full-time job opportunities, making the event a valuable resource for students planning their next steps. The career fair also served as a significant opportunity for students to practice professional development skills such as networking, résumé building, and effective communication.
Students expressed how impactful the event was for their professional growth.
“A lot of the recruiters were really easy to talk to. I got a lot of contacts, so it really helped me with networking,” said Lainey Meckin, senior computer science major.
According to Mr. Joseph L. Lyons, Executive Director of Student Engagement and Career Services, the career fair represents much more than simply securing a job.
“It’s very important. People think that a career expo is just about getting a job, and yes, that is part of it. But students get to see professionals who can help define what a career might look like in their specific major. They may even learn about career paths they hadn’t considered before. That helps students begin developing a plan for their future,” Lyons said.
Representation was also a key theme of this year’s event. Lyons emphasized that career expos allow students, particularly Black students, to see professionals who reflect their identities and experiences. Exposure to diverse professionals helps students envision themselves in competitive industries and leadership positions.
Jakari Scott, SGA Vice President of Student Success and Engagement, shared a student perspective on why attendance matters.
“As a Black student who has attended the career expo multiple times during my time at Virginia State, I believe it’s important that we show up,” Scott said. “In today’s job market, it can be challenging for graduates to secure employment. These employers want to see what VSU students bring to the table. We must take advantage of these opportunities and understand that this is an investment in us as students.”
Scott also highlighted that career readiness requires intentional effort from both the university and students.
“This isn’t just about promoting the university. It’s about pouring into students and making sure we are competitive and prepared,” Scott said.
For students who are uncertain about their career paths, both leaders stressed the importance of utilizing campus resources. Lyons encouraged students to take full advantage of Career Services.
“If students were to hire a career coach or consultant outside of the university, they would pay top dollar. Career Services provides these resources as part of their tuition,” Lyons said. “We offer assessment tools that measure interests, skills, and values. We also provide a resource called ‘What Can I Do With This Major?’ which shows students various career options tied to their major.”
He also emphasized the importance of job shadowing and mentorship.
“Students can shadow alumni to see what a particular job looks like day-to-day. And mentorship is critical. A mentor can help guide students toward the right path and provide advice based on experience,” Lyons said.
Scott echoed the importance of mentorship and involvement. “Join organizations within your college,” he advised. “Whether it’s marketing, finance, or accounting, getting involved helps you explore your interests. Mentors don’t always have to be older than you, they can be peers who have graduated and are already navigating the workforce.”
Scott described career preparation as a community effort. “It takes a village. You can’t do it alone. You have to lean on the people around you who are willing to pour into you and collaborate.”
Preparation for the career fair itself also required strategic planning. Lyons explained that Career Services collects feedback from employers and students every year to improve the event. This year, the department introduced an Empowerment Day prior to the fair.
“We had students dress professionally and took photos to showcase on social media. Employers were present to help students refine their elevator pitches, conduct mock interviews, and critique résumés,” Lyons said. “That direct feedback from employers helped students feel more prepared walking into the expo.”
He also encouraged students not to limit themselves based on their major.
“Employers are not always focused on your major. They’re looking for transferable skills. For example, an accounting student may think they only belong at an accounting firm, but even organizations like the Flying Squirrels have accounting departments with internship opportunities.”
Scott added that organizing the career fair requires collaboration across campus.
“It doesn’t happen overnight. It takes faculty, staff, administration, and students working together. When employers say that Virginia State University students are top-tier and competitive in the job market, that’s a reflection of our collective effort.”
As the career fair concluded, one message remained clear: success is not accidental. It requires preparation, participation, and persistence. Events like Black 82’s “Pathways to the Dreams” Career Fair not only connected students with employers but also reinforced the importance of representation, mentorship, and community support.
