Opportunities, connections, and a fresh new headshot—The College of Design, Art & Performance at USF pulled out all the stops at this year’s Career & Internship Expo. Held on Friday, February 21, at the Marshall Student Center, the event brought together students and top industry leaders for an afternoon of networking, career insights, and professional growth.
More than 36 esteemed companies participated, eager to meet students from the College of Design, Art & Performance’s four schools: the School of Architecture & Community Design, School of Art & Art History, School of Theatre & Dance, and the School of Music. Employers such as AIA Tampa Bay, Busch Gardens, IKEA Tampa, the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), Pinellas County Schools, Straz Center, Tampa Museum of Art, The Dalí Museum, and The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art were just a few of the big names in attendance.
The energy in the room was undeniable. Dr. Carmen Goldsmith, Assistant Vice President of USF’s Center for Career & Professional Development, reflected on the event’s success: "The event was filled with excitement as students took full advantage of the opportunity to connect with industry professionals. A total of 229 students participated, with over 100 stopping by the Center for Career & Professional Development’s table to engage in meaningful conversations and explore the career development services and programs available to USF students and alumni."
And, for the first time ever, the College of Design, Art & Performance offered free professional headshots to every student who attended—a well-received addition that students appreciated.
“When we were asked about offering free headshots, we jumped at the opportunity,” said Jesus Gogo, Assistant Director of Communications & Marketing for the College of Design, Art & Performance. “In marketing, we understand that first impressions matter. A crisp, clean, professional headshot isn’t just for LinkedIn—it’s a powerful tool for networking and an essential addition to any designer, artist, or performer’s portfolio.”
The annual Career & Internship Expo continues to be a cornerstone event for the College of Design, Art & Performance, equipping students with the tools, connections, and confidence to take their next steps in the industry. With each year, the event grows, offering more opportunities to bridge the gap between education and career success. And this year’s attendees? They didn’t just leave with job prospects—they walked out looking the part, headshot and all.