The Auburn Alumni Association's graduation fair is occupying the front entrance of Haley Center this week, filled with opportunities and information for graduating seniors.
TGIF... Graduation (Thank Goodness It's Finally...Graduation) will host representatives from various insurance, diploma frame, class ring and career service companies. Career development and moving services and information regarding the Alumni Association will be available.
"Our goal was to make a one-stop shop for graduating seniors so that they have everything they need," said Amanda Hodge, director of marketing and membership for the Alumni Association. "Everything from home rental to short term medical insurance, pet insurance and dental insurance; we're just trying to cover all the basics."
Hodge said this is the first year the Alumni Association is doing this, and they have been planning since last January. They are glad to be able to test the success of the fair on the Auburn December graduates.
The location of the fair is pivotal. The AU Bookstore in Haley Center will be promoting caps and gowns throughout the week. Half of the total graduates for the semester are expected to be walking through the front entrance.
The goal of the Alumni Association was to make students aware of postgraduate opportunities.
"We hope to show students that there is insurance and the Alumni Association available after graduation so that students won't be lost once they leave Auburn," said Maconica Holloway, a senior in communication. "There are photography services so that you can get pictures made in your cap and gown. It keeps you plugged in. You can connect with old classmates and be in the Auburn club program wherever you end up living."
The Alumni Association advertises benefits such as discounts for selected medical and auto insurances, car rentals and University merchandise.
Another organization with representatives at the fair is the Auburn Graduate School
Jessica Nelson, director of marketing, recruiting and public relations for the graduate school, said the days are gone where an undergraduate degree is sufficient.
To make strides, often times a master's degree is required.
"Graduate school is about your future and what comes after graduation," Nelson said. "Grad school brings an increase in job openings and in earning potential in terms of graduate and professional degrees. Get your degree while you're waiting for the economy to pick up so that you'll be there when the jobs and higher pay are there."
The fair lasts until Thursday, Sept. 17. More information can be found at aualum.org.
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