COCC hosted a virtual JobFest on April 13 through Canvas. This was created to be a useful opportunity for students to chat with employers who wanted to connect with students, whether students specifically knew what they wanted to pursue or not. 

The purpose of the JobFest is to attract the attention of students and to spark thought about careers after college. Reaching out to employers now helps expand the possibility of securing a job once graduation rolls around. 

There were a variety of opportunities available, including but not limited to internships and employment options. Some of these internship opportunities include a Bias Response Team Volunteer and Intern program working with the Oregon Department of Justice, a summer camp counselor with Campfire Central Oregon and a Pharmacist Intern with St. Charles Health System.

To meet with employers, there were Zoom links on Canvas for easy access. Each link led to a specific employer, all who were available from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. over Zoom. The available career categories were healthcare, hospitality, business, outdoors, construction and government. 

Starting on April 4, specific employers who will be joining the JobFest became available to view on Canvas. When logging in, there was an announcement including pertinent information on the JobFest.

According to Tracy Dula, the Career Services Coordinator at the campus, there were five known students in attendance at the JobFest. St. Charles was the most popular employer there, with four out of the five attending their Zoom. 

The employers were incredibly pleased with ELearning, and the students that did attend, but a bit disappointed in the smaller turnout. They seem to be hoping that more people will learn about the opportunity and join them the next time around.