SU students hustle for jobs at annual career fair

Southern University welcomed a diverse number of companies and corporate professionals last Wednesday in the Felton G. Clark Activity Center for the annual Spring Career Fair, hosted by the Office of Career Services.
The fair began as a way to both enrich the ties with companies both local and national and to give students the freedom to interact with professionals in order to build individual relationships.
Many participating companies have, in years past, involved alumni, maintaining strong bonds with fair attendees, although many relationships are ‘evolving.’
“It gives Shell the opportunity to once again partner with Southern,” said Leviticus Cleveland, a recruiter for Shell Lubrication Company.
“Not only from a perspective of offering opportunities to students here on campus, but also establishing partnerships to help improve the curriculum here (on campus). Really, what we want to do is go beyond the career fair to establish a partnership with Southern… it’s an evolution process; we’re evolving. This is the first step and we hope to stay in that relationship,” he said.
During the career fair, recruiters from companies greeted students and offered hands-on advice. If applicable, students may be contacted for future instructions and/or career opportunities.
In addition to obtaining future employment, establishing student relations with companies can be beneficial through internships, co-ops and several different mentoring opportunities.
“It helps me to see all the companies I am not able to see every day,” said junior nursing major and Baton Rouge native Samantha Givens. “I was able to talk to them and get information on a one-on-one basis.”
According to the Office of Career Services, “the primary objective of this program is to acquaint our students and alumni with the various careers available for their consideration. You are asked to discuss in general terms the types of careers available with your organization and the necessary qualifications.”