By Cooper Nelson
GCU News Bureau
The University’s Career Services office is set to host its annual Job Fair on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the sidewalk and field near Prescott Hall.
The event is part of GCU Career Week. This year’s Job Fair includes 55 local companies and organizations that range from large corporations like PetSmart to smaller businesses, school districts, government agencies and churches. Companies will be stationed at booths along the sidewalk to hand out free items and information to students.
Companies will also accept résumés, so students in search of work experience are encouraged to network with prospective employers and sharpen their business skills.
GCU’s departments of Human Resources and Administration will also be on hand as they look to hire recent graduates for full-time positions.
Jackie Smith, director of Career Services, advises students to dress sharp and update their résumés before attending Thursday’s Job Fair. She said students coming from classes or athletic practices who are unable to dress the part should be mindful that a professional handshake, eye-contact, killer résumé, and business cards are often key to landing a job.
An etiquette dinner and ”mock-tail” reception take place Tuesday night to educate students on common workplace etiquette. A résumé review session and mock interview event on Wednesday prepares students for Thursday’s Job Fair and future interview opportunities. Both events are currently booked to capacity, though students who’d like to brush-up on business etiquette, hone their interview skills, or even receive free business cards, can visit Career Services on the ground floor of Prescott Hall or contact the office at [email protected] to set up future sessions.
Smith, a former corporate recruiter, said the opportunity to network at the Job Fair and learn the ins-and-outs of the industry is invaluable to students.
“It’s a great place to introduce yourself and see what companies are looking for,” Smith said. “Don’t wait until graduation to find a job, then it could be too late.
“It’s always good to have that network open.”
Contact Cooper Nelson at 639.7511 or [email protected].
