Fair prepares grads for big day

An energy was present as seniors funneled into the graduation fair, signaling the start of their end at Washburn University.

Seniors graduating during the spring or summer semester who are candidates for graduation and are participating in the May 12 commencement ceremonies got to go to the graduation fair.

“It’s great having all of this here in one space,” said Rhett Buckley, graduating with a Jurist Doctorate in Law. “I can’t believe it goes until 10 p.m. tonight. It’s kind of unbelievable.”

The fair was held all day from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the Washburn Room at the Memorial Union. These extended hours for the fair were allowed for students who needed to work around class, internship or work schedules.

There were 15 booths providing information on the commencement ceremonies, graduate’s caps and gowns, photography, pre-ordering yearbooks and various other businesses from the community.

Many special discounts were offered only at the fair for graduates ranging from cap and gown and yearbook purchases, AAA memberships, bundle packages for framing and computer software and many more.

“It’s nice that they offer the opportunity to purchase with a discounted rate for students,” said Matt Coleman, also graduating with a Jurist Doctorate in Law.

Aside from useful information and merchandise for the May commencement ceremonies, there were also many representatives from business throughout the Topeka community.

Brad Noller, American Family Insurance, Intrust Bank, AAA and Jostens were present as well, offering help tips and drawings for prizes and useful information to send seniors on their way after completing their degrees.

Washburn University career services was also available to assist seniors in their graduating process.

“I would tell juniors to start applying as soon as possible for jobs, said Buckley. “Apply now even.”

Buckley echoes many seniors’ feelings towards heading out into a recession and an extremely competitive job market after graduation.

But until that comes, Washburn University is doing everything in their power to educate their students not only in classroom, but also by offering a fair with useful resources and tips for graduates on how to compete with other graduates entering the work force through out the country.