Unemployed college students from Abilene Christian University and Hardin-Simmons University are in luck with the upcoming Part-Time Job Fair on Sept. 14.
Students will have the chance to meet and interview with local employers on the campus of Hardin-Simmons from 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Many students who want to work while they are at ACUÂ stay in constant contact with Daniel Orozco, assistant director of Career Services.
“We’ve been pushing to let students know that there are people looking to hire,” said Orozco.
He suggests students visit www.acu.edu/hr first to explore the listing of available jobs on campus. But he added, “there are not enough jobs to go around, so look for something near.”
Hardin-Simmons has hosted part-time job fairs for several years, but this is the first time the two universities have collaborated for the endeavor. David Hunt, HSU’s assistant director of Career Services, hopes the change will increase attendance and opportunities for students on both campuses.
“I think a lot of students are discouraged and are aware there aren’t many jobs out there,” Hunt said. “But there are jobs out there, and we’re trying to raise that awareness.”
For the first time, the fair will be a casual outdoor setting to attract more people. Instead of hunting for a building, students can follow the music playing at the HSU pond to find tables with local businesses prepared to meet prospective employees.
Although Hunt said previous fairs have attracted only about 50 attendees, close to 200 are expected this year. Along with an influx of those seeking employment, employers expanding across a wider range of career fields are on the roster.
So far, 18 businesses have scheduled to come, many with the potential to hire for multiple positions. Â Among those attending are FedEx Ground, YMCA of Abilene and Hendrick Medical Center.
Given the current economy, expectations are high for both ends participating in the fair.
The best piece of advice that Hunt has for students: “You can’t find anything unless you try and apply.”
