How I spent my career day at WUR
By Devi Muralee Krishna
As a Master’s student in Food Quality Management at Wageningen University & Research, attending the Wageningen University Career Day was an exciting and insightful experience that gave me a closer look into the professional world I hope to be part of. For students interested in the food industry, sustainability, quality assurance, food safety, or innovation, this event is much more than just a networking fair, it is a genuine opportunity to connect with your future.
Preparing Before the Event
One of the things I truly appreciate about Wageningen University is how well they prepare students for events like this. Before Career Day, students have access to CV check sessions where professionals help refine resumes and provide useful advice on presenting your profile effectively. This support is especially valuable when applying to companies for interviews.
Some companies participating in Career Day open opportunities for pre-scheduled interviews, where students can apply via the WUR Career Platform (JobTeaser) in advance by submitting their CVs. The companies then review the applications and inform selected candidates before the actual event. This creates a fantastic opportunity to walk into Career Day not only to network, but also with the possibility of interviewing directly with recruiters.
The Atmosphere at Career Day
Walking into Orion during Career Day was energising. The venue was filled with students, professionals, and representatives from some of the most recognised companies in the food and related industries. Seeing organisations such as Unilever, Kraft Heinz, McCain, Thai Union, Vreugdenhil, EFSA, Corbion, ADM, and many others in one space was inspiring.
The event had a dynamic atmosphere where every booth offered something different—some focused on internships, others on graduate roles, research opportunities, or industry partnerships. As someone studying food quality management, it felt like stepping into the real-world extension of everything we learn in class.
Conversations That Matter
What made the experience especially valuable was the opportunity to have direct conversations with HR professionals, hiring managers, and company representatives. Instead of only reading job descriptions online, Career Day gave me the chance to understand the people behind the organisations.
These conversations helped me learn more about company culture, their expectations from applicants, what daily work looks like, and how they support young professionals entering the industry. Speaking face-to-face made the companies feel much more approachable and gave a clearer sense of whether their work environment aligned with my own interests and career goals.
For international students, these conversations are particularly useful because they help clarify practical aspects such as internship eligibility, recruitment timelines, and application processes.
Exploring Career Opportunities
Career Day is not only about immediate job openings; it is also about discovering possibilities you may not have considered before. Many company representatives encouraged students to sign up for their career pages, register on internship portals, and stay connected for future opportunities.
As a Food Quality Management student, it was exciting to see the diversity of career paths available—from food safety and quality assurance to product development, regulatory affairs, sustainability, and supply chain management. The event made the industry feel both broad and accessible.
The Small Joys Along the Way
Of course, no career fair experience is complete without the little extras. Many companies had thoughtful giveaways, product samples, branded stationery, tote bags, and snacks. While these goodies added a fun element to the day, what stood out most was the creativity with which companies presented themselves and engaged with students.
Each booth reflected the organisation’s personality, making it easier to get a feel for their brand identity and working culture.
Final Thoughts
Attending Wageningen University Career Day was a meaningful experience that reminded me how important it is to actively engage with the professional world while studying. It is easy to focus entirely on coursework and deadlines, but events like this bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice.
For me, Career Day was not just about job hunting—it was about learning, networking, asking questions, and gaining confidence as a future professional in the food industry.
If you are a Wageningen student, I would highly recommend attending with an open mind, a polished CV, and curiosity. You never know which conversation might become the beginning of your next opportunity.
See you around
Devi
