Internships, Jobs on the Menu at Annual Horticulture Industry Dinner

Students in the Virginia Tech School of Plant and Environmental Sciences met with industry professionals at the annual Horticulture Industry Dinner and Scholarship Night.

Representatives from more than two dozen companies from across the country talked with students about their companies, internship opportunities, and careers.

“This is a great opportunity for our students to hear from the experts about the multitude of opportunities available to them,” said Instructor Scott Douglas.

More than 100 students attended the event with resumes in hand.

The event started with dinner, followed by 10-minute sessions, where industry representatives talked about their companies and learned about the student’s skills and interests.

“Our students were eager to hear about what awaits them in the real world,” said Undergraduate Student Coordinator Karen Drake-Whitney. “Their work in the classroom prepared them for the short interview sessions, which will lead to full interviews, and internship and career opportunities.”

Students who registered for the event were also entered into a drawing for scholarships. 

Twelve students were awarded scholarships for $250, $500, or $750. In total, $5,000 was given out.

Some of the proceeds from the event will also go to the National Collegiate Landscape Competition Team as it prepares to travel to Starkville, Miss. to compete in March.

At the competition in March 2022, the Virginia Tech team placed 12th overall. 

Juan Gonzales won the $2,500 Stihl, Inc. Landscape Industry Scholarship.