With a growing career field and new medical positions being created every year, it’s important for students of the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions and the School of Nursing to see the different opportunities available to them.

One way students get to see the various opportunities is through the annual School of Pharmacy and Health Professions and the School of Nursing career fair.

The fair, which was held on Nov. 11 in the Skutt Student Center Ballroom, is meant to attract students looking for careers in nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy and occupational therapy. More than 300 nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy and physical therapy students attended the event.

Shawn Cook, the director of student affairs for the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, said the event offers students a great opportunity to set up potential job placement.

“The key for students in finding a great job is networking with employers,” Cook said. “Students [from every grade were] encouraged to attend the fair and make the connections early to ensure optimal job placement in the future.”

Pharmacy fourth year Bryan Shaw encouraged students to use this event to their advantage. Shaw said this event offers a great opportunity for students to network and build professional relationships.

“[This gives] students a means to get placed in the job market and expose students to opportunities [they] may not be aware of,” Shaw said.

Aside from just learning about the different careers that are available to them, upper-level students are given the opportunity to interview for positions that will be available to them once they complete their program and licensing requirements.

Cook said he encouraged students to be prepared and active for the career fair. He told students to be prepared to speak with employers, have résumés and actively engage employers with questions.

Regional and national employers attended the fair and besides offering employment opportunities, the registration fee that they paid to participate went to fund student scholarships.

Cook said that the event not only benefits students but potential employers as well.

“This is a great opportunity for employers to see how students at Creighton University want to be active in pursing their future career goals,” Cook said. “It gives the school and the university the opportunity to showcase what we have to offer for those interested in hiring our students.”