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The Mike Cottrell College of Business (MCCB) at the University of North Georgia (̨Íåswag) wanted to give students a chance to gain insight for their next career steps.

With that in mind, the college hosted the MCCB NXT Career Expo on Oct. 17 on ̨Íåswag's Dahlonega Campus and in conjunction with Career Services' Career Fair on Oct. 23 on the Gainesville Campus. The expo featured breakout sessions and workshops with business leaders on topics such as social media and personal branding, exploring career paths, ethical leadership, and employer expectations.

A total of 375 students attended the standalone NXT career fair Oct. 17, and the professional development workshops were filled to capacity on both days.

"The NXT Career Expo was planned to bring together students, faculty, staff, and community members to discuss careers, provide internship and job opportunities, prepare students for future careers, and to thank our community members for helping us build strong graduates," said Dr. Donna Mayo, MCCB dean. "It was a tremendous success. I'm so thankful to all our staff and faculty who worked diligently to bring the event to fruition."

Bryce Gant, a junior business management major with a concentration in supply chain, works full-time in the paint department for Home Depot. The Flowery Branch, Georgia, resident wanted to learn about supply chain internships with Home Depot and the opportunities other companies had to offer.

"There are a lot of people here. Everyone's really talkative," Gant said. "It's a good way to get information and get yourself out there. I've handed out four resumes."

Sean Dekle, a cadet who lives in Alpharetta, Georgia, is scheduled to graduate in December with a degree in information systems.

"I'm hoping to meet with some organizations, see what's out there," Dekle said.

Katie Sayres, a senior marketing major from Gainesville, Georgia, enjoyed hearing from vice presidents of different companies.

"They talked about where they came from and how they got to where they are today and how opportunities are everywhere and to do what you're passionate about," Sayres said. "It's really helpful for our future and showing us how to impact the business world."

It was the first career fair for Gabriel Garcia, a senior business management major from Brazil.

"It's very good to give us the opportunity to meet employers," Garcia said.

April Ross, director for the MCCB's Personal Roadmap to Ongoing Success (PROS) program, said the event was well-received by all involved and that the college plans to organize it again in the future.

"Employers were thrilled with the quality and preparedness of our students," Ross said. "And students have responded positively to having so many relevant businesses on campus for both the career fair and workshops at the same time."