The College of Nursing, GMU actively participated in the GMU Career Fair 2024, held on November 13, 2024. The event, themed “Connect | Network | Succeed,” brought together healthcare professionals, final-year nursing students, alumni, and industry leaders, fostering meaningful connections and opportunities. It also served as a vital platform for career guidance, networking, and exploring job opportunities in the nursing and healthcare sectors.
The College of Nursing organized 5 dedicated stalls, showcasing information about nursing careers, alumni achievements, and college resources. 40 final-year nursing students and 25 nursing alumni actively participated in the event. Attendees enthusiastically interacted with company representatives, gaining insights into career pathways and industry expectations. Participants submitted their CVs at various stalls, which provided them with direct recruitment opportunities and valuable feedback.
The panel discussions were a major highlight, featuring esteemed nursing leaders, including the; Ms. Tracey Lee Hendricks, Director of Nursing Education and Research at King’s College Hospital London, Dubai, and Mr. Austin Shaju, Chief Operations Manager at 360 Medicare Healthcare & Nursing Recruitment, Dubai who shared insights on: Future of Healthcare Careers: Navigating Trends and Opportunities and the second panel, From Classroom to Career: Transitioning Successfully into the Medical Workforce. These sessions inspired attendees, providing them with a clear understanding of the challenges and prospects in the healthcare field.
Representatives from the 360 Degree Consultation Company held a separate session exclusively for final-year nursing students. This session focused on addressing student queries, offering guidance on job applications, and preparing them for the transition from academic to professional life.
A dedicated workshop titled “Crafting Your Path: Essential CV Writing Skills for Career Success” was conducted to equip attendees with the skills to create professional resumes that align with industry standards. These sessions offered practical tips on creating standout CVs and effectively presenting themselves to potential employers, equipping attendees with the tools they need to excel in their healthcare careers.
The event strengthened the bond between the College of Nursing, its alumni, and the broader healthcare community. Students had the chance to engage with over 60 top-tier organizations and directly speak with HR representatives about internships, job placements, and career advancement opportunities. Participants praised the opportunity to directly engage with recruiters, submit their CVs, and gain actionable advice for career advancement.
Feedback from company representatives and panelists emphasized the professionalism and preparedness of GMU students, highlighting their readiness to contribute to the healthcare workforce. The college’s efforts in organizing such an impactful event were greatly appreciated by all participants, marking it as a significant milestone in promoting career development and fostering professional networks.