ETSU’s Career Services is providing various organizations on campus with the tools they need to connect with employers through the Career Services Networking Funds program. These funds aim to provide initiatives that connect students and university employers in ways that are both meaningful and promote engagement.
Elizabeth Haselsteiner, assistant director of experiential learning, explained the program’s purpose. “The role of the Networking Funds is to support student organizations in hosting events that engage employers. It’s really about creating spaces for students to network, whether that’s a lunch-and-learn, a buffet or even small tokens of appreciation for the employers,” Haselsteiner said.
Haselsteiner emphasized that the program is open to all student organizations at ETSU.
“Any student organization can apply. Anyone responsible for putting on the event can reach out to us at careers@etsu.edu, and we can help them with the process,” she said.
She added that Career Services also assists groups that don’t already have an employer in mind. “If you have the idea for an event but are not sure of who to reach out to, Career Services can assist with that aspect as well,” Haselsteiner said.
The Networking Funds cover up to $400 per event per academic year, an increase from last year’s $300. These events provide students with opportunities to explore career options and consider their futures from new perspectives.
By supporting these events, Career Services aims to create a comfortable environment where students, faculty and employers can engage meaningfully. “Having funds for an event like this takes the pressure off student organizations,” Haselsteiner said. “It makes the event more appealing for employers and students, and it encourages real conversations. When you bring students, employers and faculty together in one room, it creates a network of support for everyone involved.”
“Even one well-planned event can inspire an entire group of students,” Haselsteiner said.
