Students Get a Spirited Look at Career Services’ Resources

Putting a new spin on a classic outdoor carnival, University Career Services at St. John’s University hosted its second “Career-nival” on September 4, meant to introduce new students to career possibilities in a spirited and engaging way.

Students gathered on the grounds behind Chiang Ching-Kuo Hall, where they awaited a chance to play carnival-like games customized to inspire curiosity in the mission of Career Services. More than 500 students attended the three-hour event, more than twice the number who attended in 2024.

Among those attending was Xavier Johnson, a first-year student from St. Augustine, FL, who sought career options for the Economics degree he is pursuing at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business.

Xavier, with fellow Economics major Jared Kunutsor of Washington, DC, enjoyed several Career Services’ games, including “Dress for Success”—where students had to identify attire appropriate for business interviews—and “Career Events Grand Prix”—where students guided a hand-operated car to one of several parking spaces corresponding to a Career Services resource.

“It is much more engaging this way than just meeting in an office,” Xavier said. “Outside, in this setting, you talk to people and interact more. You also meet people who can help you later.”

Xavier, Jared, and scores of other students enjoyed the “Big Career Fish Off” and “Résumé Remix.” In “Fish Off,” students reeled in a “fish” from a pool; a number corresponding to a career-related question was attached to the fish. Students who answered correctly received tickets to an ice cream raffle. In the résumé game, students were challenged to identify from a whiteboard effective bullet points to enhance an imaginary student’s résumé.

A basketball-like game had students toss a ball into a basket corresponding to a Career Services adviser. Traditional outdoor games such as cornhole and Connect 4 added to the atmosphere.

“It was a good exercise in preparing a résumé,” Jared said. “I know better now what to include and what not to, and also when to change my résumé and how I can improve it.”

The event was part of Career Services’ mission to engage students early in their time at St. John’s, and make them aware that University resources are available at any stage of their professional journey—from first-year student to long-time alumnus.    

“The idea is to introduce students to who we are, and that we can be a valued resource,” said Ellen Burti ’83C, ’87GEd, Assistant Vice President for Career Services. “It is low stress and fun. Last year, the students came away knowing we are here to support them and said they appreciated that.” 

The event was a fact-finding mission for some students. Melina Ramdehal, a first-year student undecided on a major, met informally with Career Services advisers to discuss possibilities in psychology. She came away intrigued by forensic psychology, a specialty often associated with law enforcement and criminal justice.

“My siblings always tell me to keep my career options open and to stay informed,” Melina said. “That is what I am doing.”    

For more career and résumé tips, check out these recent posts on The Johnnies Blog:

• Why Career Research Matters (and How to Actually Do It)

• What Recruiters Want in Interns: Advice from Career Services

• How to Advocate for Yourself at Work as a Young Professional

• How to Build Your Personal Brand as a Student or Young Professional