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K-State Today

November 8, 2017

College of Veterinary Medicine brings in employers from several states for job fair

Submitted by Joe Montgomery

DVM Job Fair at the K-State Union ballroom

While graduation is still several months away, the College of Veterinary Medicine is already helping its senior class get a head start on entering the job market.

The college hosted a job fair Saturday, Nov. 4, at the K-State Student Union, bringing 40 employers who came from as far away as California, New Mexico and Massachusetts, hoping to hire one or more 2018 graduates.

"It's hard for students to find the time between clinical rotations, externships and studying for boards to get out to meet practitioners looking to hire a new 2018 graduate," said Peggy Schmidt, associate dean for academic programs and student affairs. "Bringing these employers to campus provides not only an opportunity for our students to meet multiple employers in a single day, it also allows employers to meet multiple students who may be interested in their practice. It was a win-win for both employers and students."

Many of the participants were themselves Kansas State University alumni. Out of a class of 112 students expected to graduate in 2018, more than 30 were in attendance, along with another 30 or so students from the classes of 2019, 2020 and 2021.

"We were delighted to have students in their first, second and third year of studies attend the job fair and introduce themselves to practitioners," Schmidt said. "This is an excellent way to build a network for potential fourth-year externships and possible future employment."

"The job fair was highly beneficial for me as a student in the Veterinary Training Program for Rural Kansas," said fourth-year student Chase Reed, Winfield. "I was able to have introductory conversations with practices that would not have been geographically feasible to interact with in person otherwise. At Kansas State University, we are lucky to have administrative leadership who demonstrate a pattern of concern and care for us. Thanks to Drs. Peggy Schmidt, Tom Schwartz, Brad White, Bonnie Rush and everyone else who helped schedule such an excellent event!"

Schmidt said in addition to the faculty mentioned by Reed, Beth Davis and Gregg Hanzlicek were invaluable in helping prepare students for success at the job fair. She also said Miranda Schremmer and Dee Roblyer, staff members from the dean's office, were the "driving force" behind employer registration and logistics for the job fair.

"It never would have happened without their effort and input," Schmidt said. "We are looking forward to our next Job Fair for the 2019 graduates next October."