How UNM Career Services Helps Students Prepare for What’s Next
April 28, 2026
Whether you’re an online student studying from home or a student attending classes on campus, UNM Career Services offers a wide range of resources to help you explore career opportunities, build professional skills, and connect with employers. From one-on-one career counseling to networking events and job fairs, Career Services supports Lobos at every stage of their academic journey and future career planning.
We spoke with Erin Callahan, Career Counselor, and Victoria Kirikos, Employer Relations Specialist, to learn more about what Career Services offers and how students can make the most of these opportunities. At the heart of Career Services are the professionals who work directly with students to support their career goals.
Callahan joined Career Services in 2023 and utilizes her mental health counseling background to works closely with students through individual appointments.
“I help students with everything from the nuts and bolts of career—like résumé and job search strategies—to understanding what they know about themselves and how that connects to different career paths,” Callahan explains.
Kirikos joined Career Services in 2017, focusing on employer partnerships and recruitment opportunities.
Where Should Students Start?
For many students, the hardest part of career planning is simply figuring out where to begin but, according to Kirikos, Career Services is a great place to start that process.
“It’s really about figuring out what you want to do and where to start,” she says. “Students can come sit down with us, talk about what they’re studying and what they’re interested in, and we can help map out the steps to get there.”
Once students identify their goals, Career Services can help them build the tools they need, such as creating résumés, writing cover letters, and learning how to search for jobs or internships. Callahan points out that networking is another important part of the process.
“Sometimes students come to us because they need a job or they’re graduating soon,” she says. “But we also talk a lot about growing your network—through job fairs, campus jobs, volunteer work, or even part-time jobs. Those experiences are all ways to build connections.”
When Should Students Visit Career Services?
When Should Students Visit Career Services?
“You should come to Career Services every semester if you can,” Callahan says. “There’s something we can help with at every stage of your college career.”
While many students visit during their final year, earlier engagement allows students take full advantage of opportunities such as internships, volunteer experiences, and campus jobs that help build professional skills before graduation.
Career Services also supports alumni, but the earlier students start exploring their career goals, the more opportunities they can take advantage of while still in school.
What to Expect at Career Fairs
Career fairs are one of the most common ways students interact with employers through Career Services. At these events, employers set up booths and share information about their organizations, job openings, internship opportunities, and hiring timelines.
“It’s a great opportunity for students to introduce themselves to recruiters and start making those connections,” Kirikos explains.
Students are encouraged to prepare by bringing copies of their résumé, dressing professionally, and practicing how they want to introduce themselves. Another helpful piece of advice is to research employers ahead of time. Students can find participating organizations through Handshake, the university’s career platform, where employers register for career fairs and post opportunities. Callahan adds that preparation can make a strong impression on recruiters.
Doing a little homework about the employer ahead of time can really resonate with recruiters,” she says. “It shows that you’re interested and engaged.”
As students start thinking about internships, job opportunities, and what lies beyond graduation, UNM Career Services is preparing for a busy year full of events designed to connect Lobos with future employers and graduate programs.
One of the most significant events scheduled for the spring semester is the STEM Fair in February, which will focus on majors in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Soon after, students can attend the All Majors Career Fair in March, the largest fair of the year. While it’ll feature many employers looking for business-related majors, the fair is open to all students and will certainly include companies hiring across a variety of disciplines. The spring semester then wraps up with the Educators Job Fair in April, a major opportunity for students interested in pursuing careers in education.
Career fair season continues in the fall, with even more events including a Graduate School Fair, a Business and Accounting Fair, and an Engineering and Science Fair. Because it attracts colleges from all over the nation, including Ivy League schools and programs from nearby states like Colorado, Arizona, Texas, and Oklahoma, the Graduate School Fair is particularly beneficial for students considering potential relocation opportunities. Students are encouraged to stay updated on career fair details and participating employers through Handshake, which offers access to event information, job postings, and graduate program listings.
Beyond career fairs, UNM Career Services also offers individualized support for current and former Lobos. Students can reach out by email, phone, or Handshake to schedule appointments with career counselors. Appointments are available both in-person and through Zoom, making it easier for students with busy schedules to get connected. Career Services also offers multiple workshop opportunities throughout the semester, including remote options for students who might not be able to attend on-campus events.
Connecting with Employers: In Person and Online
Career Services offers several ways for students to connect with employers beyond career fairs. Students can attend employer information sessions, on-campus recruiting events, and interviews coordinated through Career Services. Employers also frequently host tabling events across campus where students can stop by and learn more about available opportunities.
For online students, virtual events are also available to offer another opportunity for students to connect with employers.
“Lots of employers host virtual information sessions,” Kirikos explains. “Those are posted on Handshake, and they’re a great way to hear directly from recruiters about their company and opportunities.”
Career Services can also help facilitate connections between students and recruiters if a student wants to reach out to a specific company. In some cases, staff can even help coordinate virtual meetings.
Callahan also encourages students to explore informational interviews, where students can speak with professionals in a field to learn more about their work and explore different career paths.
“These conversations are really great for career exploration and building your network,” she says. “Sometimes they even turn into mentorships or job opportunities.”
Building a Strong Resume
Résumés are one of the most common topics students bring to Career Services. The office offers résumé reviews, guides, and one-on-one feedback to help students develop strong application materials.
“We talk to students about resumes all day,” Callahan says. “One of the most important things is tailoring your résumé to the job or goal you’re applying for.”
She also encourages students to focus on writing authentically. While technology can be helpful during the writing process, overly edited or generic language tends not to stand out to employers. Career Services also provides résumé, cover letter, and interview guides through its website, along with personalized support for students who might want additional feedback.
Advice for Students Planning Their Careers
Both Callahan and Kirikos emphasize that experience and exploration are essential parts of career development.
“Just get involved,” Callahan says. “Classes are important, but getting experience—whether it’s a campus job, volunteering, or something outside your field—can help you build transferable skills and grow your network.”
Kirikos agrees and encourages students to start thinking about career goals as early as possible.
“Start the conversation early,” she says. “What are you studying? What can you do with that degree? What are your values?”
She also encourages students to fully explore Handshake, which allows students to search for jobs and internships, connect with recruiters, attend events, and even interact with other students who have worked with companies they’re interested in.
It’s a great networking tool,” Kirikos says. “You can connect with recruiters, but you can also connect with other students and learn about their experiences.”
Career exploration is a process that develops over time. Whether you’re just starting your degree, preparing for graduation, or exploring new possibilities, students don’t have to navigate career planning alone. With so many resources available, UNM Career Services offers a variety of ways to connect, explore opportunities, and confidently take the next step forward. Beyond career fairs, UNM Career Services also provides individualized support for current and former Lobos. Students can connect by email, phone, or Handshake to schedule appointments with career counselors. Appointments are available both in person and through Zoom, making it easier for students with busy schedules to access support. Throughout the semester, students can also take advantage of multiple workshop opportunities, including remote options for those who may not be able to attend on-campus events.
To learn more about Handshake and how it can help you search for jobs, internships, and upcoming career events, visit the UNM Career Services guide on Handshake to create your profile, explore opportunities, and start connecting with employers.
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