Career fairs coming to Concordia

Concordia’s Career and Placement Services (CAPS) is hosting a series of career fairs for students in the education, science, engineering and computer science programs. The fairs give students and alumni unique opportunities to network with professionals in their respective fields.

The Education Fair on Wednesday, February 8, in the Atrium of the J.W. McConnell Library Building, provides students in art education, early childhood and elementary education, child studies and teaching English as a second language with an opportunity to meet potential employers. Representatives from more than a dozen schools and school boards will be in attendance to answer questions and provide more information about careers in teaching. 

What: Education Career Fair
When: Wednesday, February 8 from 1 to 6 p.m.
Where: Atrium of the J.W. McConnell Library Building (1400 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W.), Sir George Williams Campus

The third event is the Engineering and Computer Science Fair February 13 and 14 on the seventh floor of the Henry F. Hall Building. A collaboration between CAPS and the Engineering and Computer Science Association, this two-day event promises to showcase a variety of businesses, including Microsoft and Genivar. 

What: Engineering and Computer Science Career Fair
When: Monday, February 13 and Tuesday, February 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Seventh floor conference rooms of the Henry F. Hall Building (1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W.), Sir George Williams Campus

Concordia student Cedric Keshishian graduates from the electrical engineering program this spring. He attended the career fair last year, and plans on doing so again next month. “The career fair gives students a chance to expose themselves to companies, and companies a chance to expose themselves to potential employees, so it’s beneficial for both,” says Keshishian. “Last year, I saw that a lot of companies were interested in hiring Concordia engineers so it has me pretty hopeful.”

Francine Salinitri, the acting manager for CAPS, stresses the importance of attending these events. “You have human resources people there to answer your questions so, even if you’re not graduating this year, take advantage of it,” she says. “It’s a great opportunity to inquire about different companies, what they’re looking for in a candidate and what experience you should be gaining.”

Salinitri suggests various ways in which students can prepare for career fairs. For example, much like a job interview, it is important to bring a resumé, dress professionally and come prepared with questions. She also recommends learning a little bit about the different companies that will be represented. A complete list of these businesses, as well as additional information about the fairs, is available on the CAPS website. 

Related links:
•    Career and Placement Services (CAPS)
•    Counselling and Development Workshop schedule