With job searches always a challenge for students, and with businesses seeking capable interns or employees, events that match the two groups can only bring benefits to both. Firms Night, organized by Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) and Business Industry Night, organized by the Florida International University Accounting Association (FIU-AA) offer just that.

Firms Night preserves key elements.

“Firms Night was amazing,” said Jacky Gomez, a Beta Alpha Psi candidate for induction. “Being exposed to so many local, national and global firms is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get my name out there.”

Gomez was one of about 165 students and professionals who attended the September event.

“Our structure was the same as in the past, with each firm assigned a table,” said Albert Tamayo, president of the chapter, which for the third consecutive year received a “Superior Chapter” designation at the organization’s annual conference. “Five students at a time share their résumés and business cards, talk briefly with the representatives from the firms and then rotate to the next table.”

Business Industry Night showcases recruiter.

Also in September, FIU-AA put on Business Industry Night, titled “Crossing the Bridge to Success,” an event that drew almost 200 students.

Daniel Perron, owner of Perron & Company, who has an impressive record in recruiting, following stints in both public and private accounting, spoke.

“He gave us job search strategies, explaining how we should determine what we want, select companies and follow up, along with interview tips,” said Ramon A. Medina, president-elect of FIU-AA, who organized the event with the help of the organization’s executive board and Sharon Lassar, director of the School of Accounting in the College of Business Administration.

Following the talk, students participated in a mini career fair during which they were able to learn more about the 20 companies that attended.