RCB Empowers Students for Career Success

September was a powerhouse month for career development at Rowan University's Rohrer College of Business (RCB), as students engaged in a robust lineup of events designed to open doors, build confidence, and spark professional connections. From resume polishing to on-campus interviews, the college is making career readiness a central part of the student experience, starting as early as freshman year.

Meeting the Market: Accounting Firms Connect Early with Students

Recognizing the accelerating pace of recruitment in the accounting field, RCB launched its inaugural Meet the Accounting Firms event on September 11. Organized by the Rohrer Center for Professional Development (RCPD), the event offered students early exposure to firms that are actively seeking talent. “We’re adapting to meet the reality of early recruitment cycles so our students don’t miss out,” noted Amie Ryno, Director of the Center.

The event featured over 30 accounting firms from across the region and highlighted just how quickly opportunities move in the industry. Employers were enthusiastic about the new fall timeline, with BDO sharing, “Great turnout—impressed with all the freshmen,” and many firms commenting on how well-prepared and engaged students were throughout the event. BDO scheduled 9 interviews with students following the event.

RU Ready? Enterprise Mobility and RCPD Set the Stage

To prepare students for the all-majors Business Career & Internship Fair, the RCPD hosted the RU Ready Fair, sponsored by Enterprise Mobility, on September 25. Over 230 students participated in a series of career readiness experiences including resume reviews (50 conducted during the event alone), free professional headshots, a Galvin Professional Closet pop-up, mock career fair practice by Enterprise recruiters, and even a chance to win a suit from J.Crew through the Galvin Dress for Success Program.

Career Fair Success: 800+ Students, 75 Employers, and Hundreds of Opportunities

Capping off the month, the Business Career & Internship Fair on September 30 drew more than 800 students and 75 employers, thanks to the efforts of Elisabeth Parker, Assistant Director for Employer Partnerships. The energy was palpable as students navigated the room with confidence, supported by weeks of coaching and guidance. TTI conducted 21 interviews at the RCPD over the two days following the fair, a clear sign that students were making a strong impression.

According to employer feedback, 100% were satisfied with the quality and quantity of students, with one recruiter from Simon & Schuster calling it the “Best career fair in South Jersey.” Employers praised the professionalism, intentional questions, and even the standout presence of first-year students who are being encouraged to attend early and build their networks over time.

Therapy dogs were also on hand to help calm nerves, and students left feeling empowered and excited. As one student shared, “It’s so valuable to get this experience early in your college career, before you even have an agenda.”

Building a Culture of Career Readiness

Thanks to the strong support of faculty, many of whom offered class credit or canceled class so students could attend, the message is clear: career preparation is part of the RCB culture. From drop-in hours and resume reviews to collaborative student club programming, RCB is creating a comprehensive pipeline for success.

In the weeks leading up to the Career Fair, the RCPD also hosted dedicated career counseling sessions led by Ann Nitsche, the RCPD’s Career Coach, who provided personalized coaching to help students refine their resumes and build confidence in navigating employer conversations. These one-on-one sessions gave students the chance to ask thoughtful questions and walk into the Career Fair feeling prepared and empowered.

Notably, the shift of the career fair from spring to fall gives students a critical edge in a competitive job market, aligning with the reality that many employers are making hiring decisions 6–9 months out.

International students received tailored support from the International Center, and students from Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC) were bussed in as part of the 3+1 program, underscoring the inclusive reach of the event. Interns from the RCPD were also onsite, coaching peers and creating a welcoming, peer-driven environment.

As one employer shared: “Students crave the personal connection that a career fair provides. We were thrilled to meet so many driven, thoughtful candidates.”

A Full-Circle Moment

For some employers, the event was deeply personal. Several RCB alumni returned to campus—not as students, but as recruiters, eager to hire the next generation. “It’s a full-circle moment that reminds us why we do this work,” said one alum.

With a 29% increase in student attendance since the Spring 2024 fair and glowing feedback from students and employers alike, the Rohrer College of Business continues to set the standard for what career readiness looks like in action.