Seneca School of Hospitality and Tourism recently hosted its 23rd Annual Career Expo on Monday, February 6, 2023, with 78 employers and industry organizations, and over 2000 students in attendance. The event was a resounding success, providing an opportunity for students from across Seneca's various programs to connect with prospective employers and learn about exciting career opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry.

A small program was organized to set the tone of the event, with Academic Chair Alfonsina Chang leading the Land Acknowledgement and President David Agnew officially opening the Career Expo. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and excitement as students and employers engaged in meaningful conversations and exchanged ideas.

This year's event was particularly significant as it was the first time in two years that the Career Expo was held in person and at Seneca Newnham Campus, following a period of virtual events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The return to in-person events was a welcome change for both students and employers alike, providing a unique opportunity for face-to-face networking and interaction.

As part of the Career Expo, employers were given Campus Tours to visit Seneca Flights Experiential Hub and Hospitality Lab, providing them with a first-hand look at the impressive facilities, industry-tested technology that replicates the environments students encounter in their career, and see other resources available to students.

Additionally, students who are currently studying through online program delivery had the opportunity to meet their professors and fellow classmates in person, helping to build stronger connections and networks within the Seneca community.

Furthermore, students from other programs across Seneca were also able to attend the event, making it a truly campus-wide initiative. This provided a valuable opportunity for students to explore career options beyond their own field of study and expand their networks within the broader Seneca community.

The event received positive feedback from the attending employers, with Michael Agema, Managing Director of Agema Work, stating, "Thank you very much for hosting an excellent Career Fair today at Seneca College. Our booth was buzzing with students eager to connect and hear about opportunities.”

Another employer from the Metro Toronto Convention Center, also expressed their gratitude for the event, stating "One of the highlights of this week was the opportunity to attend our first career expo of 2023! Thank you Seneca College School of Hospitality & Tourism for being the most gracious hosts and providing industry partners a wonderful opportunity to connect with your talented candidate pool. Looking forward to #senecaproud students joining the #mtccproud team!"

Other employers also expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to connect with students and showcase their organizations to the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals.

The event also left a positive impression on the students, including Prerna Prakash, who said, "Almost 2 years of virtual classes, the career expo at Seneca College Seneca School of Hospitality and Tourism finally gave me an opportunity to meet my professors and fellow classmates in person. I am grateful and thankful to everyone who has been part of this journey."

Overall, the 2023 Career Expo was a huge success, providing a platform for students from a diverse range of programs to showcase their skills and talents, while connecting with leading employers in the hospitality and tourism industry. Seneca School of Hospitality and Tourism looks forward to hosting future Career Expos and continuing to support the success of its students and graduates.

See you again on February 5, 2024!