CBA involvement fair helps students find connection, leadership and opportunity

Friday, Jan. 23, students gathered in the Grawn Atrium for the College of Business Administration Involvement Fair, an event designed to help business students explore ways to get involved beyond the classroom and connect with the CBA community.

The fair brought together registered student organizations, faculty, and campus partners to share information about leadership opportunities, professional development, and ways students can engage across the college. Tables lined the atrium as student leaders answered questions, shared personal experiences and encouraged peers to take the next step in their college journey.

For many attendees—especially first-year students—the event served as an introduction to involvement opportunities that complement academic coursework and support long-term career goals. By speaking directly with organization leaders and faculty, students were able to learn how involvement can help them build skills, grow their networks and feel more connected on campus.

Senior human resource management major Zoe Snider, outreach coordinator for the Society of Women in Business, said the fair created meaningful opportunities for conversation, particularly with students who are still exploring how to get involved.

“My favorite part is talking to people about what our club is all about, especially students who might not be involved yet,” Snider said. “The best part of SWB is the friendships. You get professional development, fun experiences and meet people who become your best friends.”

Student leaders emphasized that involvement in business-focused RSOs allows students to apply what they learn in class while developing skills employers value, including communication, leadership and teamwork. Many organizations also offer opportunities to attend conferences, host speakers and participate in service and professional events.

Junior marketing major Sarah Firchau, vice president of the American Marketing Association, said the fair highlighted the wide range of opportunities available to CBA students, regardless of major or year in school.

“The involvement fair was a great opportunity for business students to find ways to get involved, not just with their major, but with the CBA in general,” Firchau said. “Being part of an RSO gives students opportunities to grow outside of the classroom. You build connections, develop leadership and communication skills, and feel more involved on campus.”

By bringing students, organizations and faculty together in one space, the CBA Involvement Fair reinforced the college’s commitment to student engagement, leadership development and career readiness. For students looking to take the next step in their college experience, the event showed that getting involved can start with a single conversation—and lead to lasting connections.