Chatham Students Shine at the Fall Mixer
The survey numbers from the Fall 2025 Job and Internship Mixer tell a clear story: students are more prepared for professional networking than they think. Employers gave students high marks across the board, with average scores ranging from 4.0 to 4.7 out of 5 in categories like preparedness, communication, and engagement. Nearly all employers strongly agreed that the event met their expectations, and most noted that students demonstrated the kinds of skills and confidence needed in the workplace. Far from being underprepared, the data suggests that students already have a strong foundation and often underestimate how ready they are to connect with employers.
Three Chatham students at the Fall Mixer
Hear from a Student
Victoria Streeton ’27 reflected on a meaningful moment from the recent mixer while speaking with representatives from Hope Grows. For her, the experience reaffirmed that passion and professionalism can speak just as loudly as formal credentials.
“I started at Chatham, and have participated in birding workshops and outings, and have had a lot of fun," she shared. "Despite having never taken an official class on birding before… I told the employers that I would be more than happy to give the workshops a try and teach others about what birds Pennsylvania has to offer.”
Victoria’s story is a reminder that enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can go a long way. Sometimes, showing up with curiosity and confidence is enough to make a strong impression. The skills and self-assurance Victoria gained during the mixer will undoubtedly support her as she pursues future opportunities.
Thinking back on her experience, she said, “I am definitely more confident at looking for a job and reaching out to employers! I think the mixer was a great first place for me to start and try talking to employers. I have realised that although it made me nervous the first time I went in freshman year, I am more experienced now and typically know how to talk about myself and my skills.”
Hear from Our Staff
Career Development staff noticed the same. Grace Conde, Assistant Director of Experiential Learning, said she was struck by how many students not only brought polished resumes but also spoke about how they see themselves contributing to organizations. She noted that even students who may have felt uncertain showed the most important skill of all, the ability to show up and push themselves outside of their comfort zone. “The strongest skill I saw in every student was the ability to show up even in uncertainty or doubt,” Grace said.
Director of Career Development Hannah Hepler pointed out that students’ initiative started well before the event. She spoke with several students in the weeks leading up to the Mixer and many were already registered or planning to attend. That energy carried through on the day of the event, with 122 students showing up to connect with employers. “It makes me so happy to believe that the Mixer is something students might be looking forward to,” she said. She also emphasized that the benefits of these events extend far beyond landing an internship or job. “Knowing how to talk about yourself in a professional manner will not only be a strength when going to networking events but a lifelong skill,” Hannah added.
For Joshua Zeigler, Assistant Director for Employer Relations, the highlight of the event was the courage students showed, especially those attending a networking event for the very first time. Many students, he noted, approached representatives with confidence and engaged in meaningful conversations. He even pointed to the Men’s Hockey team as a standout example of professionalism, including showing up punctually in business-casual attire and eager to make connections. “Anyone who shows the drive to show up to these events is adequately prepared,” Josh said.
Together, the data and staff observations point to a key takeaway for students: you are more ready than you realize. Employers and Career Development staff alike see students bringing curiosity, professionalism, and confidence to the table. The simple act of showing up, being open to conversation, and asking questions is often the most important step. As Hepler reminded students, “You are the expert of your own experiences and interests.”
The Fall Mixer demonstrated that professional readiness isn’t about having everything perfectly figured out. It’s about starting where you are, leaning into opportunities, and trusting the skills you already have.
So next time you see an opportunity to connect, remember that the numbers, the staff, and the employers all agree—you’ve got this.