Although general education is a great thing, most students come to college with a goal in mind-to get a degree and then get a job.  Career Services is offering students an opportunity to truly pursue this goal at Career Fair, which takes place Thursday, Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Pennington Student Activity Center.  Career Fair offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to talk with over 150 employers.
“With the day and age we are in now with technology, it is certainly easy for us to apply for jobs online, but that does not replace that ability to make that personal connection with someone by being able to meet with them face to face, introduce yourself, create a positive first impression,” said Ken Ridgedell, Director of Career Services.  “A very professional impression that you leave in a very lasting and positive way with an employer goes a long way, a lot further than just a resume.”
As Ridgedell mentions, Career Fair offers the opportunity to meet with employers face to face and begin building relationships.  According to Ridgedell, many employers are not only looking to hire presently, but to build a list of resumes for potential, future employees.  
Ridgedell stated that it was most important for seniors to attend Career Fair, as they are steadily getting closer to the time to begin finding a job.  He does not leave juniors, sophomores and freshmen out of this important opportunity, though.
“You’re starting to want to get your foot in the door with a company and maybe get an internship, and these companies recognize that, and also they’re interested to talking to students about a possible internship.  So with juniors it really becomes second on the list of students,” said Ridgedell.  “Freshmen and sophomores, we still encourage them to attend, but freshman and sophomores, we want them to attend more so to sort of observe the event, to see what types of employers are attending the event.”
With so many employers, students and graduates can recognize what employment opportunities are out there, expand their network and even land a career or internship.  
Students and graduates looking to attend should bring multiple resumes with them and dress professionally, avoiding shorts and flip-flops.  Also, coming prepared with questions will make one stand out.
For more information or help on building a resume search Career Services site at http://www.southeastern.edu/admin/career_srv/about/index.html. Resume assistance, etiquette tips, and more can be found on their site to help become prepared for Career Fair.  Also, one can contact Career Services at 985-549-2121.
Attending Career Fair is only the start, though.  According to Career Services, it is important to follow up with employers and be persistent in showing your interest.