Shandra Lafroamboise from J.L. Richards
By Katie Dahl
Students flocked to Algonquin’s gym on Feb. 11 to explore potential job opportunities at the college’s spring career fair.
The space was filled with booths from Algonquin, and local and national businesses. With everything from the Canadian Forces to Ottawa New Car Dealers Association there was plenty for the students to explore.
“It’s the best career fair that I’ve been to,” said Penny Dockrill, an employee of Algonquin’s human resources department who was promoting the college. “The work and planning that goes into it never ceases to amaze me.”
The gym buzzed as students made their way from booth to booth shaking hands and asking questions.
With so many different companies being hosted by the school there was something for everyone.
“(Career fairs) are definitely a good idea and (the college) is a key location,” said Jeanine Chiasson, from Algonquin’s student recruitment and graduate certificate office.
It can be difficult for students to find employment in their field after graduation. That is why options like Algonquin’s graduate certificates are useful. They allow students to continue their education or to build on previous diplomas or degrees.
“I like career fairs when they’re targeted,” said Emma Costella, a developmental service worker student. In terms of timing, “this is good for summer employment,” Costella added.
This fair in particular was set up for youth to find summer employment that for graduation students can hopefully evolve into fulltime work.
Zoey Nippard, construction engineering technology student, has had little luck with the college’s career fair but still feels that they are a good idea. Nippard was convinced to show up regardless of her personal success with career fairs due to the persistent ads she heard on the radio proving that the fair was well-advertised.