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This event, which drew approximately 16 percent of all enrolled undergraduates, aimed to equip students with the confidence and skills necessary to thrive in today’s evolving professional landscape.

Themed around the future of work, Career-A-Palooza embraced the dynamic nature of contemporary employment trends. Recognizing the importance of adapting to shifts like the hybrid workplace, generative AI, and maintaining work-life balance, the CAC seeks to empower students by providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in any career path.

“The Career Advancement Center has provided so many opportunities to learn more about the world of work,” Maria Argueta Gonzalez ’27 said about what drew her to the event. “This exposure has helped me gain confidence in seeking out professional opportunities and given me many practical skills. Having events like this on campus has given me the time and space to grow professionally while still being able to focus on my studies.”

Unlike traditional career events, Career-A-Palooza fostered a relaxed and festive atmosphere, resembling more of a party than a formal networking affair. Attendees indulged in chocolate fondue, engaged in career competency carnival games like ring toss and disk drop, and even had the opportunity to spruce up their professional image with a LinkedIn photo taken at the Career Closet pop-up.

Throughout the event, students could participate in a variety of career planning sessions tailored to their interests and goals. The opening alumni panel, focusing on the “future of work,” delved into topics such as essential skills in today’s workplace, the value of liberal arts education, the impact of generative AI and technology, diversity, equity, inclusion, and the intricacies of achieving work-life balance in the modern world.

“Having events like this on campus has given me the time and space to grow professionally while still being able to focus on my studies.”

“As a student, I found the most insightful career advice through my peers and colleagues. As a professional, I wanted to contribute to this and further build connections with students looking to break through in the communication field and beyond,” said Eva Korb ’22, one of the alumni panelists. A public relations assistant at GitaPR, Korb majored in communication and minored in English.

One standout session, dubbed “Professionalism Trivia,” saw students competing in teams while donning costumes and answering questions related to effective self-presentation in interviews, emails, and the initial stages of a new job.

As Lake Forest College continues to prepare its students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow's workforce, events like Career-A-Palooza stand as testaments to the institution's commitment to nurturing well-rounded, adaptable professionals ready to make their mark in any industry.

“We are all discovering what the ‘future of work’ will look like…eyes are definitely on incoming/young members of the workforce to determine what this will be and how to adjust previous systems,” Korb said. “The ability to adapt, think critically, and engage well with others sets Lake Forest College students apart.”