Students presented themselves to employers at the Job and Internship Fair at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) on Sept. 21. Opportunities were inclusive of software engineering positions, working with the federal government and part-time hospitality.
Rhonda Mercadal Evans, Associate Director for Advising, Career and Student Success at CSUMB, hosted the virtual event and encouraged attendees to prepare elevator pitches, highlighting individual capabilities.
Students entered breakout rooms with employers to discuss opportunities, application deadlines and available positions.
Managing academic responsibilities and finding work is a balancing act, a challenge understood by Jenna Fletcher, the assistant manager at Pebble Beach Resort Company.
Fletcher discussed potential job opportunities with students. She suggested looking for part-time jobs that can accommodate busy schedules, from the front desk to restaurant manager, salary positions that provide valuable work experience.
Finding jobs that deliver more than a paycheck can enhance a resume, which was expressed by Lindsey Ochoa, AmeriCorps VIP Volunteer.
“This isn’t a job,” Ochoa said. “This is a paid experience.”
AmeriCorps members discover what it means to serve others with professional and personal involvement.
AmeriCorps produces volunteer support infrastructure, assisting locals, underserved communities, and the marginalized.
Students interested in social justice can apply for an ambassador position at Teach For America, a paid internship for passionate undergraduates.
Katie Stephens-Rich, Director of Underclassmen Recruitment at Teach For America, described the initiative.
“We’re about eradicating inequity,” Stephens-Rich said. “Finding diverse leaders to make an impact in low-income communities.
Business and accounting majors had the opportunity to meet with Fernando Castro, California Franchise Tax Board recruitment coordinator.
Castro guided students through the application process, creating a personal profile with resumes and transcripts and the exam process, which consists of an experience questionnaire.
Castro explained his recruitment mindset.
“We’re investing in you to hire after graduation,” Castro said.
Jackie Mahoney, Talent Acquisition Manager at Capital Insurance Group, brought an extensive selection of work opportunities to the virtual event.
Capital Insurance Group offers internships in software engineering, communications, project management and administrative assistance.
For students looking to finance their future, visit the career development page on the CSUMB website.