Darah Martin

On Thursday, February 28th Delaware State took thirty-nine lucky mass communications students to our nation’s capital Washington D.C., to attend an annual job fair. This year the Blackburn Center at Howard University, which ordinarily hosts the fair, was under renovation. Due to this, students got to experience the fair at the Newseum, an interactive museum that highlights the importance of free press, located at 6th and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Students from various universities, including Howard and Delaware State University, were in attendance. The day started with panel discussions focused on different concentrations including a TV Radio and Film, Public Relations, the Tech Industry, and Journalism. The panels featured a number of communications professionals ready to answer questions, offer advice, and share their own experiences of their careers in the communications field.

The Public Relations Panel titled “Careers In Public Relations: What You Really Want To Know,” was just what PR students needed to get inspired. The panel included Jasmine Smith, the Managing Account Supervisor, Public Sector and Government of Ketchum Washington D.C., Tamika Hawkins, Senior Account Supervisor at Edelmen, Na’ima Jenkins, PR and Marketing Associate for Hill+Knowlton Strategies, Joel Payne the vice president of MWWPR and Shazzia Khan, the Global Chief of Staff of Havas Health.  

The discussion was moderated by Donna M. Renella the president of ABW solutions, LLC. “Looking for a job is a job. Hone your skills,” said Renella. Panelists offered all types of advice, from what to put on a cover letter to diversity in the industry.

“I loved it. Everyone sitting up there has been in our shoes. They know exactly what they are talking about. It was so worth waking up at five in the morning,” said Cory Mcgee of DSU, when asked about the panel he attended.

Following the completion of the panels, students were given the opportunity to introduce themselves to various companies at the job fair hosted in the Nuseum’s parlors. Organizations like Google, MDRC, Global Strategy Group, and many more were in attendance.

The fair bustled with opportunity; the room was a sea of resumes and networking. Lines began to form as eager students seized their chance to make a good first impression with their dream job.

Sophomore, Ashley Davis expressed her excitement to be in the room, “most of the companies were looking for juniors and seniors, but I’m glad I got the opportunity to show my face and make some connections.”

This event provided students with new insight for future endeavors and the opportunity to jump start their careers. What a great way for students to get some real information and step out of their comfort zones. This year’s Howard Job Fair has been ruled a success!