Transforming Curiosity Into Career at the 2026 Career Conference

Starting with sparks of curiosity, the Syracuse University student experience ignites passion that propels a lifetime of career success. A dedicated experience that intentionally fosters the transformation of curiosity into career, the newest student professional development experience is the 2026 Career Conference, Thursday, March 26, and Friday, March 27.

Success is found in post-graduation preparation when students begin early with self-reflection that defines interests, passions and curiosities. These then serve as a guiding compass to pursue professional development over a lifetime and through a series of taking small actions, often, to progress forward. Over time this culminates into a career.

“Career readiness does not have an on/off switch that activates in senior year. The theme of the conference, ‘Where curiosity becomes career,’ unites our students that may be unsure how to transform their interests and talent into a career, with welcoming experiences, skill-building and tangible next steps forward,” says Adam Capozzi, Student Experience Division director of Career Services, Assessment and Student Success. “The theme also serves as a reminder that students don’t have to have everything figured out. They just need to stay curious and have courage to take actions, now and in the future. From there? Everything falls into place.”

A Starting Line for Career Breakthroughs

Every student, regardless of class year or academic focus, is encouraged to participate in the 2026 Career Conference. At no cost, over two days, three different conference tracks will host 24 different sessions that are equally empowering and flexible.

“We want students to know that offerings intentionally meet the demands of their busy schedules and professional development goals, all alongside preparing for a world that is quickly evolving, is more complex, competitive and uncertain than it has been in a long time,” says Capozzi. “No matter what the future may hold, we are diligently working to stay ahead, keeping our students career competitive.”

Explore complete details, including registration information, on the Career Conference 2026 event landing webpage. Space per offering may be limited and Handshake registration is encouraged by Thursday, March 19. Drop-ins will be available on a case-by-case basis. Cross-campus career teams emphasize that the most important preparation is attending with an open mind.

Reinventing Career Readiness: Replacing Awkward With Authentic

“Though we’re keeping students competitive, know that we are also hosting authentic, approachable and welcoming experiences,” says lead conference organizer Lisette Child, Student Experience Division assistant director of employer relations. “We deliberately designed the awkward out, stripping away the performative pressure and replacing it with genuine connection and judgement-free learning opportunities.”

Event highlights include the following:

• Interactive skill-building and career development sessions
• Access to the expansive Orange network of employers and alumni
• Industry expert panel discussions and keynote speakers
• Personalized resume reviews and interview coaching
• Authentic networking across lunches and Coffee Chats

“Feelings of uncertainty is exactly why students should attend. Students don’t have to have everything figured out and this is a reminder that no one does,” says Child. “This conference offers permission to be in process.”