The Maine Employers Career Fair drew a record 58 employers to campus on Thursday, connecting students with summer and full-time job opportunities in Maine.
Employers in a variety of fields—such as government, finance, publishing and law—met with students seeking internships and entry-level jobs. The event was free for all companies and organizations offering an available job or internship.
According to Employer Relations Coordinator Nate Hintze, the Career Planning Center (CPC) created the fair three years ago "to highlight the diverse opportunities there are in Maine to Bowdoin, Bates and Colby students."
"We try to bring as many full-time...and as many internship opportunities as we can," said Hintze.
In order to draw employers to the fair, the CPC invited both participants of last year's fair and organizations listed on eBear, a website that manages job and internship postings for Bowdoin students.
The fair attracted several high-profile names in government, including representatives from the offices of Senator Olympia Snowe and Congressman Mike Michaud.
"It's great to have the state representatives support Bowdoin students in helping them with summer opportunities," said Hintze.
In addition to large organizations, the fair also featured representatives of small start-up companies from around Maine. According to Hintze, the variety of employment opportunities in Maine was the real attraction for students.
"I think Maine companies have a lot of qualities that are similar to what drew students to Bowdoin," said Hintze, explaining that the companies offer a balanced lifestyle and a chance to stay in Maine during the summer.
"You have an opportunity to make your mark quickly in your career," added Hintze.