On April 24, 2026, the Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health (LLU SBH) hosted its annual job fair—an event that brought students face to face with potential employers, working alumni, and practical tools for launching their careers.
Behind the scenes, early preparation made all the difference. Elizabeth Sundstrom arrived before the doors opened to coordinate food, signage, and setup, ensuring the day ran smoothly from the start.
Dean Dr. Bev Buckles and Associate Dean Dr. Winetta Oloo led the event with hands-on dedication, personally greeting each participating agency and making sure every representative had what they needed. Their commitment to student success—not just through graduation, but beyond it—set the tone for the day.
The fair offered more than a chance to exchange business cards. Students attended breakout sessions, connected with employers across Counseling and Family Sciences, Psychology, and Social Work, and had the opportunity to take professional LinkedIn headshots. An alumni Q&A panel gave students an unfiltered look at life after LLU SBH.
The sessions delivered standout takeaways. Kaitlyn Barrera from Loma Linda University Health Human Resources walked students through the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for answering behavioral interview questions with clarity and confidence. Alumna Elyse Cyphers encouraged students to trust the process, pointing to the strength of an LLU SBH education as a foundation for the job search. Alumna Julie Estrella left students with a mantra from her own boss: "Leave the harbor and chart into the unknown. If you get lost, realign yourself."
Lunch kept the energy going—sandwiches, chocolate chip cookies, infused water, and orange juice—and there was enough to share with students in Lindsay Hall and LLU security officers down the hall.
Events like this one reflect what LLU SBH works toward every day: preparing students not just to graduate, but to go out and do meaningful work. Thank you to Dr. Buckles, Dr. Oloo, Elizabeth Sundstrom, every participating agency, and all the alumni who gave their time to invest in the next generation.
Written by Deanna Tang, Master of Social Work (MSW) student
