Students Gain Job Momentum posted 3/5/08
AC participates in annual ‘Interview Fair’

ADRIAN, Mich. - Adrian College was recently represented by ten seniors, a junior and a December 2007 graduate, at Job Pursuit, an event co-sponsored by the A.C. Office of Career Planning. Nicknamed “The Interview Fair,” the annual event is held at the Lansing Center in Lansing, MI, and provides employment leads for students of thirteen private, independent Michigan Colleges and Universities.

Adrian College’s student participation at the February 14th event more than doubled that of last year, according to Career Planning Director Shannon Martineau.

“I really enjoyed going,” reflects senior Tiffany Pittmann, “I met many companies both in and out of my field of study. It was a great opportunity for me to broaden my career perspectives.”

Unique in its approach to job fairs, Job Pursuit offers a classic meet-and-greet style morning fair, with afternoon “call back” interviews. Of the twelve Adrian College participants, eleven were selected for multiple afternoon interviews, a 92 percent success rate. Several employers noted being impressed with the participants’ level of professionalism and preparation.

Students took advantage of the opportunity to hone their interviewing and networking skills.

“Not only was it an opportunity for me to hand out my resume and network with employers to potentially get a job, it also was great practice for interviews and gave me an idea of the types of questions employers ask,” remarked A.C. senior Ben Weaks.

The event also provides a chance for Adrian College participants to “size up” their work force competition. December 2007 graduate Steve Spratt interviewed with six different companies.

“I got to shake out the jitters and sharpen my interviewing skills” noted Spratt. “Seeing all the other students from different schools fired me up. I love competition!”

The Adrian College Office of Career Planning markets and co-hosts the event each year, with staff members Martineau, Lisa Napierala and Sheri Garwood registering and preparing students for the fair. Job Pursuit is just one resource aimed at post-graduation employment and marketplace viability.

“The (informational) session with Career Planning before the fair really prepared me for the event,” said Adrian College senior Crystal Burnette.

Those sentiments were echoed by Spratt. “Shannon and her team had everything organized very well. I credit my success toward them.”

For more information on Job Pursuit and other resources available via the Office of Career Planning, visit www.adrian.edu/career_planning.