Several Seminole State College students attended Thunder Stir on Feb. 24, a career fair hosted by the Oklahoma City Thunder. The event provided students with opportunities to network, submit résumés to potential employers and explore university transfer options.

Throughout the afternoon, professionals from the Thunder organization led career-focused workshops on résumé writing, interview techniques, networking and personal brand development. As part of the experience, students were also invited to attend the Thunder vs. Timberwolves game that evening.

Student Support Services (SSS) and STEM Student Support Services (STEM SSS) sponsored and accompanied the students on the trip.

“The purpose of the event was to expose students to a professional environment and introduce them to diverse career opportunities,” SSS/STEM SSS Director Janna Wilson-Byrd said. “Many of our students are unaware of the wide range of careers available in business, engineering, health sciences, computer science and even professional sports. This experience helped them understand how their skills can transfer across industries.”

Kaitlyn Treat, a freshman psychology major, reflected on her experience.

“I learned more about my major and how to plan for my future,” Treat said. “Personal branding, especially online, is really important. This event helped me step out of my comfort zone and meet people with similar interests.”

The Seminole State College SSS Project is 100% federally funded at $306,514 annually while the STEM SSS Project receives $272,364 in federal funding each year. Both programs provide support for first-generation, economically disadvantaged and disabled students.

For more information, contact Janna Wilson-Byrd, Director of SSS/STEM SSS, at (405) 382-9642 or visit the SSC website at sscok.edu.