by Connie Kim

   The career center hosted its annual major and graduate school fair in the University Center hallway On Wednesday, Oct. 4.. Hundreds of students from all majors gathered at the booths to talk to different graduate programs and schools to discuss their current and future academic plans.

   Several graduate programs, including CMU’s own teaching, business and health sciences joined other graduate schools from all over the state to speak to prospective graduate students. Many freshmen were also found at the event talking to program professors and department heads to find their desired major, or even plan further in their undergraduate goals. There was a total of 12 graduate schools and 14 major departments that attended the event.

   Several students found the major fair to be an effective way for current students to connect with the people who run certain programs. The event allowed students and professors to engage with one another without having to schedule an appointment in a casual manner.

   “I think that the fair is a wonderful opportunity to get to know the diverse programs and options,” sophomore student Keeley Frey said. “I am incredibly interested in the social work program and it was really great for me to be able to talk to someone about it specifically.”

   Graduating seniors also saw a benefit to the graduate fair, as it allowed them to connect with admissions counselors, and talk about graduate program requirements and qualities.

   “I’m an out-of-state student from Hawaii, so I’m not completely familiar with every single graduate program that is offered in the state,” student Kameron Paige said. “I’ve been doing some research, but I’m really glad that the  fair has so many grad school options for me to choose from. I was able to speak to the University of Colorado about their graduate program, and I learned things that I didn’t see on their admissions website. I think it’s also an advantage to be able to speak to an actual person about the application process and what not.”

   “This event gives students the opportunities to visit departments if they are not certain of their path,” Alecia Dembowski, assistant coordinator of student services, said.

   Dembowski was in charge for contacting all schools and programs to put the event together.

   “Looking into other schools showcase the different options for students in surrounding areas,” Dembowski said. “The intention is to get students in the right direction to pursue their educational goals. Exploring your options only make you stronger.”

   The fair is continuously growing, as there is an increase in the amount of graduate schools and on-campus departments that are eager participate every year. The major and graduate fair occurs annually in the Fall semester, typically during the first week of October. Students are encouraged to visit the career center in the University Center for any questions regarding the fair.