Students aim for career success by attending part-time job fair

More than 100 students gathered at Troy University on Aug. 28 for the school’s first ever Part-Time Job Fair, where local employers and university career services staff connected students with opportunities both on and off campus.

This semester’s event featured more than ten vendors representing a range of industries including hospitality and tourism, food service, auto services, business and marketing. Career Services staff said the goal of the event was to make the process of finding part-time employment more accessible for students while balancing academic and financial needs.

“We have many students needing part-time jobs and not knowing where to find them,” said Jen Holbert, a program advisor for Troy University Career Services. “We went into the community, spoke to roughly 45 local businesses and brought in employers who were actively hiring.

“Many students left with applications turned in, interviews scheduled and jobs applied to.”

More than 100 students attended the fair, according to organizers. Attendance this semester reflects a steady interest from students who are seeking not only financial support but also professional development while completing their degrees.

Arminda McKee, director of Career Services, said the event helps lay the groundwork for future career success.

“Every semester, we have many students stop by our office looking for part-time jobs,” McKee said. “This year, we reached out to the Pike County Chamber of Commerce to find businesses with openings.

“The event was intended to make students work of finding a job easier.”

McKee added that these early experiences can benefit students long after their time at Troy.

“As students get ready to start full-time jobs, networking plays a big role,” McKee said. “You need a degree and experience.

“A lot of the time, the networking experience can further their professional career.”

Holbert agreed, noting that taking on a part-time role does more than provide income.

“We want our students to be employed when they leave,” Holbert said. “Work experience strengthens a resume, helps develop professional skills and provides a level of financial security while on campus.”

Vendors at this year’s fair included both long-time supporters and new businesses introduced through expanded community outreach. Compared to past years, the vendors represented a more substantial cross-section of industries.

Organizers said partnerships with the local chamber of commerce helped diversify the available opportunities.

For students, the fair offered an opportunity to meet potential employers face-to-face – a step that can be more effective than submitting online applications. Many students walked away with concrete next steps, including interviews scheduled in the coming weeks.

Career Services staff plan to continue the event each semester, with the hope of expanding the number of participating businesses.

“Our mission is to give students the tools they need for success,” McKee said. “Events like this allow us to bridge the gap between the classroom and the community, and we see real results when students leave with opportunities in hand.”