POINT LOOKOUT, MO — College of the Ozarks hosted approximately 80 organizations during the fall Career Expo on Sept. 24 in the Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex. Hosted biannually by the Vanek Center for Vocation & Callings, the event connects students with potential employers and provides opportunities to explore careers, internships, military service, and graduate education.

Representatives from businesses, graduate schools, military branches and nonprofit organizations attended the event to share opportunities with students and help them build professional connections.

“The Vocation Center is honored to host organizations offering opportunities in employment, internships, military service, and graduate education,” said Candace Stark, Vanek Center director. “This event allows students to build meaningful connections, explore career paths, and engage with community and business partners as they prepare to pursue their vocation and callings. We deeply value these partnerships and are pleased to include long-standing organizations that have faithfully supported the College and its students, as well as several new participants joining this year’s Expo.”

Student participation was especially strong at this year's event. Representatives from participating organizations praised the number of students who arrived with polished résumés and demonstrated readiness to discuss available opportunities. Business partners also reported that student engagement made the visit to campus one of their best experiences.

The Career Expo provides students with opportunities to practice communicating with potential employers and graduate school representatives while gaining insight into possible career paths.

“I enjoyed attending this event because of the networking opportunities it provided,” said Gael Ibarra, senior accounting major in the CPA pathway. “I got to talk with College of the Ozarks alumni working at some of the booths. Seeing where they are now, just a few years after graduation, showed me the importance of connecting with professionals at events like this.”

More about the College of the Ozarks Vanek Center for Vocation & Callings

The Vanek Center for Vocation & Callings seeks to inspire students to understand their vocation and how to live it out through their various callings. The center was named in honor of Dorothy Vanek, a Missouri native whose generosity, benevolent heart, lifelong service, and philanthropy continue to have a lasting impact.

Each semester, the Vanek Center facilitates several vocational events. The Vocation Trip gives upper-level students an opportunity to explore practical ways to transition from college into their chosen vocations. Students visit company headquarters, connect with College of the Ozarks alumni, and establish professional networks.

More about the College of the Ozarks Vocational Pillar

The Vocational Pillar at College of the Ozarks promotes a strong work ethic and the development of good character and values. Through the College’s Work Education Program, full-time students work 15 hours per week at an assigned campus workstation during the academic year. These work hours help offset the cost of tuition while providing students with practical experience and skills that prepare them for the workforce after graduation.