Hundreds of students seized networking opportunities and filed into the Marketplace Food Court, Salon A, on Thursday morning with hopes of securing a part-time job or volunteer opportunity.
According to Algonquin College volunteer coordinator Rebecca Sun, 700 students registered to attend the fair which had several non-profits, government entities and businesses in attendance.
“Volunteering helps students foster an interaction with their local community,” said Sun, “and helps build friendships and learn leadership skills.”
Some non-profits present included Meals on Wheels and Roger Neilson House.
“I am a part of the Leadership Program,” said computer programming student Vithura Sribalachandran. “It is a student program here [at Algonquin] that encourages me to volunteer at different places around Ottawa. I need 20 hours to complete the program.”
The Student Leadership Program teaches leadership skills through a series of workshops which focus on self-awareness, collaboration and community engagement.
There were other students there to secure part time jobs while at school.
“I am looking for a part time job” said computer systems technician student Fadzai Masiiwa. “Just something for extra money. It would be nice to find something in my field but for now just a job will do.”
One student was there to fulfill long term goals.
“It’s my last year and I have to find a job in my field and also do some volunteering,” said business accounting student Mathura Sribalachandran. “I am hoping to get a position at the Canada Revenue Agency.”
It only benefits students to have face to face interaction with potential employers.
“It is a good networking opportunity to meet people and talk with them” said Vithura.
Volunteer opportunities can be found on the Algonquin Volunteer Database and all paid jobs can be found on the HireAC database accessed through ACSIS.