FTC students connect with industry leaders at Career Networking Event
By Grace Bonamico
FTC students and alumni met with prospective employers at FTC’s Employer Networking Event in the Downbeat Cafe on Wednesday, April 16th. FTC Careers Services hosted the event, with almost 30 employers from creative industries attending, including music, film, broadcasting, and live entertainment. Several career prep workshops were held leading up to the fair.
“We had a great student turnout… 75 [students] plus alumni still searching for or seeking additional employment opportunities. I always wish we could attend to each academic division with its own focused networking event, but many employers crossover to opportunities for all,” said Director of Career Services Krysti O’Rourke.
Senior Film/TV major Tori Mills recognized the big picture of such an event. “A lot of industries tend to overlap,” she said. “You never know where some of the opportunities are.” Mills noted that music festivals often need film and photography talent, emphasizing that “you can’t just look at one company and be like, oh, they only just make music; there’s always little interlays.”
Employers found meeting FTC students at the fair just as valuable. Robert Dickerson, a representative from Caffeine Academy said, “Meeting with students at Five Towns was such a rewarding experience. It was really inspiring to connect with so many passionate people. We’re truly grateful for the chance to be part of such a vibrant community.”
As graduating students look ahead to the job market and current students seek internships, the networking fair served as a reminder of the power of collaboration and the importance of building relationships across disciplines—something Five Towns College students and employers alike seemed eager to embrace.
O’Rourke and her career services team teach students the 360-degree approach to the job search process. “It is always great to be in continuous contact with employers, develop relationships, and be exposed to new opportunities that interest you and are connected to your skill sets and education. You never know who you could meet and/or who the person you meet could know to make a connection for you. Networking is valuable, and creating professional relationships is even more important,” said O’Rourke.
