Toy Fair’s Student Congress Welcomes Hundreds of Students Interested in Toy Careers

March 13, 2025 | Toy Fair® 2025 had a record-breaking turnout of students eager to explore career opportunities in the toy industry. More than 530 undergraduate students attended Toy Fair to take advantage of educational sessions and explore the show floor, with over 300 participating in the day-long Student Congress program, which took place on Sunday, March 2, at the Javits Center in New York City.

Hosted by The Toy Association™, Student Congress provided undergraduates from more than 50 schools with a hands-on, engaging experience, including networking sessions, presentations, and panels featuring power players from top companies. The event allowed students to gain valuable insights into various career paths within the industry and make meaningful connections with industry professionals.

“Student Congress has grown into an incredible program that offers aspiring industry professionals with direct access to some of the biggest names in toys,” said Jacqueline Retzer, director of event management at The Toy Association, producer of Toy Fair. “This year’s event was our largest and most impactful Student Congress to date, featuring compelling panels, mentorship opportunities, recruitment sessions, and more, solidifying its place as a must-attend event for students aspiring to enter the toy industry.”

Students kicked off the day networking over breakfast before diving into panels led by companies like Hasbro, LEGO, Walmart, Jazwares, and Bandai. These sessions provided insights into various career paths within the toy industry, along with expert advice on resume-building, LinkedIn strategies, and networking.

Students also explored ways to stay engaged through internships and industry events, visited exhibitor booths to see how products come to market, and attended educational sessions at Toy Fair University. The day included recruiting and mentorship meetups, giving students the chance to directly connect with industry leaders for advice on how to take the next step in their careers.

“This trip wasn’t just about seeing the latest in toy design — it was about connecting with industry professionals, understanding how products come to life, and envisioning where I fit into this space,” said Marina Frazier, an illustration and toy design student at the Rhode Island School of Design. “Seeing my peers engage, ask insightful questions, and be inspired by the future of play was the most rewarding part of it all.”

“My favorite part of Toy Fair was the Student Congress!” said Matt Nuccio, president of Design Edge, who spoke on one of the program’s panel discussions. “College students from schools including the Rhode Island School of Design, Fashion Institute of Technology, Drexel University, Otis College of Art and Design, and more came to learn about job opportunities in our industry. The energy and enthusiasm from the students were incredible, and it reminded me of the bright future ahead for our industry. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event!”

Toy companies interested in participating in future Student Congress activity may contact Jacqueline Retzer, director of event management at The Toy Association.