Students crowded the Great Hall searching for internships and job opportunities that could potentially launch the path to their desired career.
Pierce College hosted its annual Job Fair, in which employers from a variety of fields including: mechanical engineering, business, and psychology, encourage students to explore their professions.
Director of the Transfer Center Sunday Salter said 70 percent of students at Pierce College are part-time workers, but this event could serve as a chance for students to discover more benefits in similar and unfamiliar fields of work.
“Ideally, they can find a job in a field that interests them and has something to do with the career they’re pursuing,” Salter said. “That is a resume-builder, connection-maker and a great way for students to see themselves in the world of work after college.”
Esmeralda Martinez, a counselor in the Career Center, said this event justifies students attending school to pursue their majors.
“Any experience in a certain field is helpful because you’re going to gain skills that are going to translate into your career,” Martinez said.
Students could gain insight about various fields of work as they travel booth-to-booth.
Haniel Youlesivanson, a mechanical engineering major, said his study is broad, but the Job Fair gave him the knowledge about what to expect and where to search.
“This event can help be the first to step to building your career when you see what options you have,” Youlesivanson said. “When most people think of what major to choose, they’re not really sure about what they would exactly be doing four or five years down the line. By going to this job fair, you can see what people are doing with that same degree and what could happen if you follow their path.”
Travis Johnson, a spokesperson for Inclusive Education and Community Partnership (IEPC), said the job fair isn’t the only way to find your passion.
“Try different things, especially if you are early in your education,” Johnson said. “Take as many classes as you can and volunteer at different events and clubs. See what sparks your interest and go for it.”
Martinez said those who are undecided on a major shouldn’t hesitate attending these types of events or getting help from the Career Center.
“You shouldn’t wait to decide,” Martinez said. “You should be coming in and figuring out your major and career. It’s really all about finding out who you are and what kind of job aligns to your interests.”
