Student Career Days an education

OK, I'm all about Student Career Days. There's really no other way to say it. Hosted by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), the networking event for college students seeking to enter the landscaping industry drew nearly 900 students from every corner of the country this year, not to mention Canada.

The Auburn University campus was a beautiful backdrop to this year's event, which ends officially on Sunday. Surrounded by Auburn's charming cafes, southern hospitality and majestic pre-Civil War brick architecture, students immersed themselves in all things landscaping.

And it was fun to watch.

The day started with a pep rally in Auburn's old stadium, and the place rocked with fight songs from among the 63 colleges represented here. Afterward, it was on to the career fair, where students networked with some of the landscape industry's best firms, and firms in turn recruited top talent. 

The day was exhilarating on many levels. The camaraderie among students from all walks of life was contagious, proving Student Career Days is as much about connecting with other students as it is about connecting with employers.

For established landscape companies, Student Career Days is an important event. They don't take it lightly. By coming here year after year, they're exposed to potential staffers who are as serious about the profession as they are. Who aim to stick around. Whose heart is in it.

Thanks to Student Career Days, Auburn University today was just a positive place to be. It's a place overflowing with good vibes, ambition and people on a mission to know just how far their potential can take them.
-Beth Geraci