Fall Career Fair 2014
Westminster’s annual Career Fair was a huge success this year. Fifty-seven different employers, graduate programs, and study abroad/off campus programs sent representatives to network with approximately 170 Westminster students. We went to the Career Fair to learn more about what employers are looking for in potential future employees. Here’s a sampling of some employers from the event who shared with us what attributes they think are most valuable in an employee.
Shelter Insurance
This regional insurance company has become a strong leader in the industry since its inception in 1946. Representatives explained that Shelter Insurance has many departments covering a variety of insurance types, which makes it the ideal workplace for almost any major at Westminster. The most important attributes in a future employee for this company are a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Defense Contract and Audit Agency
This agency provides audit and financial advisory services to Department of Defense and other federal entities responsible for acquisition and contract administration. The representatives explained that work and internship opportunities were open to mostly accounting-related majors. The type of work they do requires an employee who is self-motivated, detail oriented, and good at communicating with others.
Commerce Bank
Commerce Bank has worked closely with Westminster College in the past. Representing the company at the career fair was alumni Josh Hanley ’02 who currently works as the Assistant Vice President of Commercial Lending. When the bank is looking to hire new employees, they want students who have abilities in sales, customer service, and financial analysis. They look for well rounded students who have leadership experience and relate well to a wide range of individuals.
H&R Block
H&R Block is partnered with Westminster in an Accounting internship program specific to majors in that field. Their representative explained that although the work they do is specific, it requires some broad-based skills. They are looking for employees who are articulate, able to represent the brand well when working with customers directly, and good problem solvers. Experience in accounting through the internship is an obvious bonus when applying to work for the agency.
Veterans United
This Columbia-based company was started with four employees in 2002 and since then has grown into the nation’s leading dedicated provider of VA loans. Representatives explained that they are looking for employees and interns who emulate the company’s values: Be passionate and have fun. Deliver results with integrity. Enhance lives every day. They often hire interns in the marketing department. The representatives described computer literacy and working well in a team-oriented environment as necessary qualifications.
More information on Westminster’s internship opportunities.
