Many University of Delaware athletes are familiar with the recruiting process, as most were recruited to play his or her sport at the collegiate level. However, on Monday night, Sept. 19, at the Bob Carpenter Center, they experienced another kind of recruiting process – the professional recruiting process.

With a two-day career and internship fair, multiple employer information sessions and panel discussions, as well as the first installment of the Career Services Center “Diversity Dialogues” Fall Series this week, the Athlete Networking Night led off a very busy week of networking and career engagement for students and employers on campus.

Christine Motta, who oversees UD’s Career Services for Athletes program, welcomed employers and athletes to the event and encouraged students to take advantage of the atmosphere.

“This is a fantastic learning experience for you,” Motta said as she addressed the crowd. “It’s about becoming a total athlete, not only developing in your sport but also for your future career. This is an opportunity to engage in conversations and make connections with employers and alums to see what being a lifelong Blue Hen is really all about.”

Motta continued, “We want you to take these small steps to prepare yourself and build your networks for life after sport. Tonight is a chance to do that.”

Chrissi Rawak, UD director of athletics and recreation, also challenged the student athletes to “step out of your comfort zone and start that conversation.” Byron Collins, associate head coach of the men’s lacrosse team, said he was thankful for the opportunity that his players had to network and meet so many employers and alumni as he tweeted about the event.

Close to 50 employer organizations with over 75 recruiters and representatives were in attendance, including 12 former UD athletes and about 21 alumni.

Troy Reeder, a sophomore defensive football standout for the Blue Hens, said he was impressed with the experience. “I know the direction I want to go, but I’m not sure exactly what I want to do. Having conversations and connecting with so many of these organizations here tonight has been really informative…and it’s great practice too! It’s been a great way to learn about all of the different opportunities out there. Why wouldn’t you come to this?”

Looking at the attendance of student athletes at the networking night, Motta said it seems as if many athletes felt the same way.

For more information on the many career events, fairs, information sessions, and panel discussions scheduled throughout the year by the Career Services Center, UD students can log into their Handshake accounts or visit the website.