Today, Richard Harris Terrace was bustling with for-profit companies, family and social service providers, and law enforcement agencies, all reaching out to BMCC students interested in internships, part, and full-time jobs.
In the midst of a severe economic downturn, where New York City is experiencing an unemployment rate of over eight percent, more than 300 students eagerly approached the 28 employers present with questions and conversations about employment opportunities.
To show how important the fair is to the college, both President Pérez and Senior Vice President Sadie Bragg, were present and mingled with both students and recruiters.
Ms. Melba Olmeda, Director of BMCC’s Center for Career Development, called the career fair an “overwhelming success.”
In her opening remarks, Ms. Olmeda addressed the employers by saying,” BMCC students are among the smartest, most talented, and ambitious students you will meet. You will learn today that our students have worked hard to demonstrate that they are prepared to be part of today’s competitive labor market.”
BMCC students are optimistic
In interviews with several students, it was self-evident that they appreciated the opportunities at the career fair.
Nelson Ngai, who is majoring in Finance and intends to transfer to Baruch College/CUNY, said, “This is a great idea. It gives all of us the chance to look beyond our schooling and to prepare for the demands of the world of work.”
Gabriel Martinez, a Business Management major, seemed to hit the jackpot by setting up three interviews with the Boy Scouts of America, as a fitness director, the Air U.S. Force, as a physical therapist, and the insurance firm, New York Life, as a sales representative.
Another student, Josephine Johansson, who is an international student from Sweden and a Business Administration major, was struck by how well the fair was organized, especially, as she said, “I am looking for internships and this fair may give me the possibility to go from an internship to a full-time job.”
A Liberal Arts student, Keniah Avila, who is thinking ahead to a medical career said, “Even though the economy was in a deep slump, it was good to see that I might have a job in my future.”
Duane Bowoes, another Liberal Arts student, was looking for an entry level management position and seemed to think he may have success in securing one. He liked the accessibility of the fair because his busy academic schedule gave him little time to “face the world of work.”
To view the entire list of participating companies click here.
