Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website
Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website
Artificial intelligence and digital recruiting tools have significantly influenced corporate hiring practices, but the importance of personal job interviews remains. This was a key message from St. John's University's 2025 Spring Career and Internship Expo, held at the Taffner Field House on April 3, where face-to-face interactions were championed.
Ellen Burti, Assistant Vice President of University Career Services, who spearheaded the event, emphasized the irreplaceable nature of in-person interviews. "Even with virtual interviews, we find it differs from how you speak to someone when you meet them," Burti explained. "Coming to a career fair allows you to have a unique and authentic interaction with someone—and that can be the differentiator."
St. John's University hosts two career fairs annually, providing students with interview preparation. This includes those whose résumés have passed through AI-based filters some companies use. Students receive guidance on etiquette, language use, and effective communication. They can also request recorded mock interviews for self-review.
More than 60 employers from various sectors, including accounting, hospitality, and risk management, attended the April 3 event to meet with students. A similar event targeting social services and government sectors was held a week earlier at the D’Angelo Center due to renovations at the field house.
The importance of personal interviews was reiterated by employers at the event, emphasizing career fairs as valuable settings for students new to job interviews.
Career Services offered students insights into employers' questions and professional photo opportunities for LinkedIn profiles. Sophomore Alayna Bennett, seeking an internship in hospitality, appreciated the chance to engage directly with potential employers. "It is nice to talk to the people here," Alayna noted.
The fair also featured returning and first-time participants like GOAT USA. Represented by event manager Liam Pizza and alumna Sophia Collins, the company sought to recruit for sales and brand management positions. "We are looking for hard-working, social employees who show initiative and want to grow with a rapidly growing brand,” Pizza stated.
On a similar note, the D’Angelo Center event explored fields such as homeland security and law enforcement. Students like James Ervolino, a Homeland Security major, highlighted the evolving nature of these fields. "Homeland security is always changing and adapting, especially with how it uses technology," Ervolino said.
The US Secret Service, represented by Special Agent Ryan Quigley, was among the employers scouting for investigative, protection, and homeland security roles. Quigley was impressed by the student's caliber, noting that "a number of students here demonstrate skills far above where I was at that age."
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