The prospect of attending a career fair is always a key focus for first-year MBA students like me. Whether it’s handing out resumes, engaging in insightful conversations, or simply getting exposure to a wide range of companies, career fairs provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with potential employers and explore various career paths. This year, I was fortunate enough to attend a career fair dedicated exclusively to Risk Management & Insurance. The event hosted more than 76 employers from both the insurance and risk management industries, offering a unique platform to learn about different organizations, their values, and the opportunities they provide.
As I walked into the event, I couldn’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed. The sheer number of companies and the energy in the room was both exciting and intimidating. Armed with a map of the booths and a few key companies in mind, I started making my way through the crowd, looking for my next conversation. Each stop provided new insights, from specific roles within the companies to learning more about the broader landscape of the industry.
Among the many conversations I had that day, one stood out in particular: my visit to Lockton’s booth. From the moment I walked up to their representatives, I was struck by how approachable and knowledgeable they were. The atmosphere at their booth was inviting, and they were eager to share detailed information about Lockton’s operations, their national reach, and most importantly, their ethos of promoting from within. This emphasis on internal growth and career development resonated with me, as it’s something I value in an employer.
After spending several hours navigating through the booths and networking with industry professionals, I felt both exhausted and exhilarated by the end of the day. Once home, I took the time to reflect on the conversations I had and started drafting follow-up emails to the contacts I made. Each email was an opportunity to build on the initial interactions and continue exploring potential opportunities with these companies.
The experience was not only informative but also a great reminder of the value of face-to-face networking. While it can be daunting to put yourself out there, career fairs provide a rare chance to connect with industry leaders and gain a better understanding of what different companies have to offer. I’m eager to see where these new connections will lead, and I’m looking forward to the next steps in my career journey within risk management and insurance.