Beating the Recession: OCA JOBS AND CAREERS EXPO

The best way to fight the recession and unemployment? Get a job! That philosophy was on glorious display in King Hall on Wednesday, March 18 as the Office of Career Advancement (OCA) held its Spring Jobs and Careers Expo. Most importantly, more than 80 companies participated in the event looking for Monroe students.

"This speaks volumes about the quality of Monroe students and their preparedness for the world of work," said OCA Dean Carol Genese. "Our 75-year college mission is to help students get jobs and launch careers," she said, "and during these tough economic times, employers come to Monroe. We must be doing something right!"

Employers at the Expo expressed delight that students had researched their companies or organizations beforehand so they were prepared to talk seriously about working in the real world.

"We're always looking for talented people, so why not look in the communities we serve?" said Dan Calderon, the Executive Team Leader of Human Resources for Target. "There's always a great applicant pool here. That's why we come to Monroe."

Also, as in the past, participating students and grads were required to dress properly, which helped demonstrate that they understand what it takes to be a real world professional.

"This teaches you to broaden your search, how to find a job," said Business Management major Roy Harris, II. "It's phenomenal."

More than 700 students took part in the fair and many made contacts and appointments for job interviews, secured internships, or even got hired for jobs. For information on all aspects of job preparation and readiness, contact the OCA at 800-55-MY-OCA.