Spring can symbolize a fresh start, and for those who descended upon the Purdue University Calumet campus recently, perhaps a new career. The college’s recent Spring Career Expo welcomed hundreds of visitors during two separate sessions on the same afternoon.
The first gathering was reserved for PUC students looking for employment and/or internship opportunities, whether they were college graduates or job candidates pursuing a degree. Eighty booths were set up in the PUC Fitness and Recreation Center to accommodate them.
“I’m surprised at how many companies are here. You usually don’t see this at school fairs.” Arliss Kish of Hammond, said during the first session. “That’s great, because I bought a ton of resumes and want to line up something for this summer.”
Although formal interviews weren’t on the day’s schedule, some of the employers conducted short, spontaneous, information exchanges with visitors.
“We offer a paid, 10-week internship training program for layout technicians, and quite a few students left their resumes after talking with us,” said Jim Riffice, of Ryan Fire Protection in Valparaiso. “We’re always looking for skilled individuals to join our team.”
University Photo Co. was on hand to take head shots for those interested in including them on their resume and other job-search related materials.
“I think this (adding a picture) is a great tool for my job search,” said PUC graduate student Benjamin Kelly as he straightened his necktie before Beth Piarowski of University Photo took his picture. “It may just give me an edge over other candidates.”
The second Spring Career Expo session, opening shortly after the first one closed, hosted the community-at-large.
Some of those toting resumes were not the type of job hunters you usually find on a college campus.
“I just retired, but I want to find something to keep me active,” said Joseph Elizalde, of Hammond, as he perused the vendor list. “My son is a student at Purdue and he told me about this job expo. There’s quite a few people here to talk with, so I’ll be staying busy.”
Jasmine Harris of East Chicago also is looking for a job or possible summer internship as a computer analyst.
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“My company had a big layoff in January and I’ve decided to return to school,” she said. “But I won’t begin until next August, so I need to find something in my field now so I can keep my experience and skills current.”
Purdue University North Central in Westville previously hosted an identical event Feb. 17 at PUC’s Library Student Faculty Building.
Although there was no charge for either session of the Expo, registration was suggested. Participants also were urged to bring copies of their resume and dress for success, according to Purdue Calumet and Purdue North Central Director of Career Development and Services Natalie Connors.
“The Spring Career Expo is an opportunity to connect students, alumni and community residents with employers based across the Midwest,” Connors said. “We are very excited to have a great mix of representative organizations from different industries to participate in these events – from public education to automotive manufacturing.”