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STLCC-FV Career Fair

Fair puts many participants on path of career discovery, offers face-to-face interactions

First-time job seekers, seasoned workers and employers alike were happy they attended St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley’s Career Fair.

Jashaun Johnson, a first-year student who hopes to one day land a job in film production Jashaun Johnson, a first-year student who hopes to one day land a job in film production attended the free event Wednesday, Oct. 2, in the Student Center, Multipurpose Room, and brought along his resume.

More than 50 company representatives met with over 150 attendees and offered a variety of employment options in state and local government, nonprofit organizations, health care, banking and finance, retail, information technology, hospitality, and more.

“This is my first job fair and it’s nice, neat and gave me a feel for what it’s like to talk to employers. I didn’t meet with anyone in my field, but that’s OK,” Johnson said. “I know just getting a job is a first step, and I’ll get there eventually.”

That level of understanding is music to the ears of Jacqueline Meaders-Booth, Ed.D., manager, career development. The department’s job is to guide students along an intentional career and employment path as they uncover their talents and apply them in a career or trade. “We hope students take the information they gather here and that it helps them discover, explore, plan and act,” she said. “This career fair helps a good number of our students get started.”

Community member Charlene Griddine has worked as counter help at a local dry cleaner for 18 years. She saw a newspaper article announcing the fair and came looking for change.

“I’m so glad this opportunity was also extended to the community,” Griddine said. “Everything now is on a computer, so you don’t see the recruiter or have much interaction. For me, face-to-face interaction makes a difference, because I have an opportunity to ask the recruiter questions, get answers and feel if he or she is welcoming.”

Bruce Scissors, staffing and recruiting partner at Snelling Staffing – according to his LinkedIn profile – didn’t want to share a formal title. Instead he said with a twinkle in his eye, “Just put me down as your friend or go-to business guy.”

“I don’t really mind titles,” Scissors explained. “If a client asks me to do something, I rock and roll, and the job is done!”

He was ready to hire job candidates with the right attitude.

“The most important thing you can do is be open minded,” Scissors advised. “A lot of folks want to start up here,” he said, slicing air above his head with his hand. “They really need to start here,” he continued, marking a place near his chest, “and learn how to show up on time, do the work and be a courteous team player.”

He told of an employee who didn’t want to start at the entry level, but did and is now making $85,000 a year as a warehouse manager because he proved his value.

“Attitude will take you to the top if it’s good or take you out the door if you don’t have the right attitude,” he said.

Sarah Francis, talent acquisition specialist at SSM Health, scouts for job candidates in four states.

“I’m passionate about health care and it’s good to see the right people taking care of other people,” she said.

She collected a page full of names and numbers that she plans to follow up on.

“No matter what stage you’re at, we have opportunities for you to pursue, whether it’s an internship, part-time or full-time position.”

For more information, contact Susan Ryan, career specialist, career development, at 314-513-4268.

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