Students looking to gain an upper hand in the professional world showed off their skills and resumes in the McLeod Center Thursday at the University of Northern Iowa's Career Fair. 

There were representatives from 170 organizations present for students and community members to converse with.

These organizations consisted of graduate schools, businesses and non-profits.

“I love to meet new faces,” said Laura Grinnell, internal auditor at Renewable Energy Group in Ames. “They’re all gung-ho and excited to get good jobs.”

Each semester, UNI hosts a Career Fair for businesses in Iowa to provide students with opportunities to network and meet potential employers. 

"I think it's cool to see the business world and dress up," said Mallory Garman, freshman undecided major.

Some of the organizations brought UNI alumni to represent their business.

Nate Packer represented Auditor of State where he works as an assistant. Packer, who graduated from UNI with a degree in accounting and history said his accounting degree has served him well at his current job and is excited to be visiting his alma mater again.

"You meet a lot of people here," Packer said. "It's good to be back at UNI and see students going through the process (of finding a job)."

While some businesses look at a resume to gauge a student's skills, Grinnell said REG is always looking for creativity and willingness in potential employees.

"We're expanding the company and want fresh and new ideas," Grinnell said. "Anyone who is very active and willing to take part in REG and partake and grow in the business."

Putting the Career Fair together takes time, said Sarah Goblirsch, assistant director of employer relations at UNI.   There were about 10 students working the event and 40 others volunteering their time.             

Goblirsch touched on the benefits students can expect from attending the fair.

"It's a nice place to find out what these employers do," Goblirsch said.