March 23, 2012
The University of San Diego, Department of Athletics hosted its 6th annual Torero Networking Night (job/internship fair) for student athletes this past Wednesday evening in the Jenny Craig Pavilion. Ron Valenzuela, Assistant Director of Student Athletes Services stated, "Building on the achievements of past events, this year's Torero Networking Night was a resounding success with many positive comments received from company recruiters and students athletes alike".
Senior pitcher, Kaitlin Healy of the Torero softball team said, "I really appreciated the experience of speaking with the prospective companies, and I truly feel like I learned a lot. Every time I am present at a student athlete career event, I walk away a little more prepared for the job hunt ahead of me this summer. Employers remarked, "This is my first year being involved in such an organized event, I'm impressed and I enjoyed meeting smart, well-mannered and determined student athletes". "Will bring in for a full-time interview. Well prepared, engaged and would be happy to have as a part of our team". "Excellent interview. Poised, polished and confident; would make a good agent". "Great attitude, and did a good job of connecting athletic experiences to abilities in the workplace".
Approximately 45 Torero junior and senior student athletes participated as well as 30 companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Wells Fargo, Clear Channel Communications, Frito Lay, Inc., GEICO, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, FBI, Target, TaylorMade Golf Company, Verizon Wireless, United Parcel Service and the YMCA were some of the employers that attended and recruited while at Torero Networking Night.
Torero Networking Night is a unique venue to explore numerous career opportunities, make personal contacts, gather information from potential employers, demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively and interview with employers. The event also provides an opportunity for employer representatives to promote their organizations/agencies and increase visibility to participating student athletes and Torero Athletics. Interviews are arranged to provide student athletes with an opportunity to earn a second interview with employers as the result of a favorable response during networking/interviewing. Ideally, the outcome is to secure an internship/job position. At the very least, it is a chance for student athletes to practice and refine their interviewing skills. The networking night begins with a traditional open career fair and then transitions to "Five - 12 Minute" interviews among employers and student athletes in attendance.
The University of San Diego's curriculum teaches student athletes to navigate a diverse collection of disciplines, perspectives, and people. This diversity not only opens their mind but also expands their future horizons, preparing them for the range of careers that they will have in a lifetime. Through specific networking events, career workshops, resume writing services and individual career counseling, Torero Career Development programs are intended to prepare student athletes for the world of work that awaits them upon graduation. Our career activities are aimed at developing not just short-term internship and employment prospects, but also long-term career success in a variety of fields for our graduates.
