Chatham University’s Spring Job and Internship Mixer: A Catalyst for Student Success
On April 2nd, Chatham University’s Career Development Office (CDO) hosted its biannual Spring Job and Internship Mixer, bringing together ambitious students and dynamic employers for a day of networking, opportunity, and professional growth. With an atmosphere that buzzed with purpose, students like Gage Bertovich (‘25) stepped into Athletic & Fitness Center ready to make connections that could shape their futures.
A Chatham student talking to a potential employer at the Mixer
A Student’s Perspective: Confidence and Connection
Gage Bertovich, a Communications major, left the mixer feeling both inspired and equipped. “My biggest takeaway was that businesses, organizations—people in general—are always looking for extra help and ways to improve their companies,” Gage said. “You just have to be the one to introduce yourself and find the right fit for you.”
But like many students stepping into a professional networking event, Gage encountered the challenge of crafting the perfect elevator pitch. “I have so much I want to say about myself,” he shared. “Narrowing it down was tough.” With a thoughtful approach, Gage practiced his introduction with friends, professors, and coworkers, refining his message based on their feedback.
Preparation played a key role in his experience. By studying the employer list provided by the CDO, Gage was able to target organizations aligned with his major and interests. That groundwork paid off—“The employers were friendly, professional, and genuinely interested in learning more about me. I felt like I had known them for a long time, even though it was our first meeting.”
From the Organizer’s Desk: Purposeful Connections
CDO Assistant Director of Employer Relations Josh Ziegler echoed that sentiment, reflecting on the mixer’s success. “Chatham students who are willing to go the extra mile and take charge of their career development are being noticed by employers,” he said. “They were impressed with the level of preparation and professionalism our students brought to the event.”
Ziegler emphasized the social nature of modern workplaces and the importance of events like this in developing those essential soft skills. “Research shows that the ability to form and maintain meaningful relationships helps mitigate burnout, increases access to information and opportunities, and provides a sounding board for ideas.”
What sets Chatham’s mixer apart? According to Ziegler, it’s the intentionality, both from students and from employers. “Many of the organizations that attend are here because they specifically want to recruit Chatham students. Our students are known for their drive and passion, which makes this event a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
Looking Ahead
As Chatham continues to evolve its career programming, the CDO is focused on expanding opportunities—especially paid internships—and deepening the university’s employer network. “We’re always looking to improve,” Ziegler added. “Our students deserve every chance to succeed, and that starts with real-world connections.”
For students like Gage, those connections begin with a handshake, a conversation, and the courage to step forward.