Davenport University students interested in careers in accounting, finance and insurance had two unique opportunities on the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus recently to learn about those career fields and connect with industry experts.

Accounting and Finance Forum

The first opportunity available to students was an Accounting and Finance Forum, held in the Maine College of Business on the Lettinga Campus.

Guest speakers included representatives from Plante Moran; Echelbarger, Himebaugh, Tamms & Company; Mercantile Bank; Hungerford Nichols; the Auditor General and Independent Bank, all of which are members of Davenport’s Accounting and Finance Advisory Board.

The speakers discussed their companies, professions and various career paths available within their organizations, including internships and full-time opportunities. They also reminded students about the importance of networking and attending career fairs.

Following the presentations, students were able to meet with the speakers one-on-one and ask more in-depth questions about their roles and the accounting and finance industry.

“These events are important as they provide students with valuable information on the various types of career opportunities there are in their field and give them an opportunity to ask employers questions,” said Grant Lee, assistant professor of accounting, finance, and human resource management.

Accounting, Finance and Insurance Fair

An Accounting, Finance and Insurance Fair, held on September 18, gave students and alumni the opportunity to put themselves and their resumes in front of 35 employers.

This event is a win-win for students and employers alike, as it helps bridge the gap between those looking for work and those looking for a great hire.

Elzie Honicutt, career and internship coach at Davenport, said employers attend Davenport’s career fairs because they know they will make connections with talented students and alumni who can contribute to their company’s future growth.

“The career fair is an excellent way for students to network with local employers and offers an opportunity to secure an internship or gain full-time employment,” said Honicutt.

Conversations with Davenport students who attended the career fair confirmed its value.

Kinsay Riddle, an accounting major, came to the career fair specifically to meet the representative from Plante Moran. “I’ve been talking with their recruiter, so I was excited to come to the career fair to learn more about the company and available job opportunities,” she said.

Tiani Guzman, a business management major, hopes to work in the banking industry as a human resources professional when she graduates. She came hoping to find a few leads and did not leave empty-handed. “I came to the career fair specifically to network and find internship and job opportunities, and learned of several I wasn’t anticipating,” she said. 

Click here to learn more about these exciting programs.